2004/12/15 by Mark C. Andersen, Brent J. Martin, Gary W. Roemer · 1 citation
Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology · Immunology and Microbiology · Health Professions · #Human-Animal Interaction Studies #Rabies epidemiology and control #Veterinary Practice and Education Studies #Roaming #Fecundity #Population #Population control #Population growth #Population model #Demography #Biology #Family planning #Computer science #Research methodology #Telecommunications
paper · pdf · doi:10.2460/javma.2004.225.1871
openalex publication_date 2004/12/15 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/06/11
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of trap-neuter-return and trap-euthanatize management strategies for controlling urban free-roaming cat populations by use of matrix population models. DESIGN: Prospective study. SAMPLE POPULATION: Estimates of free-roaming cat populations in urban environments. PROCEDURE: Data from the literature describing the biology of free-roaming cat populations in urban environments were gathered. A matrix population model was developed with a range of high and low survival and fecundity values and all combinations of those values. The response of population growth rate to a range of management actions was assessed with an elasticity analysis. RESULTS: All possible combinations of survival and fecundity values of free-roaming cats led to predictions of rapid, exponential population growth. The model predicted effective cat population control by use of annual euthanasia of > or = 50% of the population or by annual neutering of > 75% of the fertile population. Elasticity analyses revealed that the modeled population was most susceptible to control through euthanasia. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Free-roaming cat populations have a high intrinsic growth rate, and euthanasia is estimated to be more effective at reducing cat populations than trap-neuter-return programs.