Do you have a secure carrier for the cat to travel in? If not, can you borrow one from a friend or neighbor? Or ask the vet to loan you one? It is important for the cats to travel safely!
If the cat is not friendly enough to safely pick up, ask the vet about borrowing a trap, read about a volunteer’s experience trapping cats, and see our Basic Principles of TNR
Once you have an appointment and a trap or a carrier, you’re ready to help solve Montenegro’s problem with the overpopulation cats!
The cat should be kept inside the night before surgery if at all possible. It may have water, but no food after midnight. This is important so that it doesn’t vomit while under anesthesia, which is dangerous. And of course, no breakfast either!
Make sure the carrier or trap is securely closed and clipped before you take the cat to your car!
Place a waterproof cover on your car seat or floor, to protect it from any mishaps during travel.
If the cat is in a trap, it should be completely covered with a sheet or lightweight towel. This helps it stay calm.
Make sure the carrier is clearly labeled with your name, phone number, and a short description of the cat. If it is a borrowed carrier, or a trap, tape the information on securely. We want each cat to go back in the correct carrier, with the correct person!
After surgery:
KEEP THE CAT IN A WARM, DRY PLACE UNTIL IT IS FULLY AWAKE. Ideally the temperature should be at least 30 degrees Celsius (85 F). Until the anesthesia wears off, the cat can become chilled in a room of 21 degrees C (70 F).
It needs a warm, dark and quiet place to sleep in the trap or carrier. Cover the carrier/trap with sheets, towels or blankets to help the cat preserve body heat. If the carrier/trap is on a cold floor, place a thick towel or blanket under it as well.
Make sure there is ample ventilation in warm weather, so that the cat does not overheat
