Cedar Rapids Considers New Approach to Controlling Cat Population

The city of Cedar Rapids is moving forward with a new program aimed at managing the city's population of free-roaming cats.

New Program Will Help Manage Cat Population

CBS2 reports that Cedar Rapids Animal Care and Control recently hosted an open house to get the community's input on a proposed trap-neuter-return program. Supporters of the new program say that it is designed to help manage the long-term cat population in Cedar Rapids, as opposed to removing cats from the community, according to CBS2.

How Would the New Program Work?

Under the proposed program, free-roaming cats within the city would be trapped, spayed or neutered, and then returned to the area where they were found, according to CBS2. Officials say the new program could greatly reduce the number of new kittens born each year and ease pressure on local shelters.

Community In Favor of New Program

Jamie Bowers, manager of Cedar Rapids Animal Care Control, told CBS2 that the early response to the program has been positive. City staff will review public comments before making any recommendations. The plan is expected to go before the Cedar Rapids City Council in the coming months, according to CBS2.