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A Fresno area nonprofit organization whose goal is to reduce the number of feral and community cats suffering in the area reached a milestone this year, spaying and neutering nearly 12,000 cats over the course of 2024.

Through the support of community members and Dogwood Animal Rescue Project, Fresno TNR’s mission — “to reduce the feral cat population through education and targeted Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs” — aims to prevent thousands of unwanted kittens from walking the streets, but also improves the health and well-being of the existing feline population.

“A single unspayed female cat can theoretically produce up to 12,000 kittens in her lifetime when accounting for survival rates,” explains a Fresno TNR spokesperson in a news release Thursday. “Our work directly impacts our community by preventing this exponential growth and reducing the strain on local shelters and neighborhoods.”

Partnered with the Central California Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (CCSPCA), Valley Animal Center, Valley Veterinary Services and Fresno Animal Control, Fresno TNR provides spay and neuter services, relying solely on volunteers to reach their goal.

The organization does not have a physical facility, but continues to make an impact, motivated by the passion and dedication of its volunteers.

Recently, a $10,000 donation from the Lewis-Harlow Foundation will allow the organization to expand its services.

Fresno TNR also hopes to one day operate a brick-and-mortar facility, enhancing its service to the region.

More information about Fresno TNR can be found on their website.