TNR Initiative awards certificates to TKS students for their participation in “Community Cats and TNR” after-school program

The Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) Initiative at KAUST is pleased to announce that a group eight Grade 9 students from TKS received certificates for their participation in an after-school program entitled “Cat Community Club.”  The program provided students with a unique opportunity to learn about feline physiology, behavioral habits, health protocols, and modern TNR practices for controlling the feline population.

Over the course of five weeks, the students attended three informative lessons at TKS where they learned about TNR best practices and cat population management; physiology and behavior of cats; and how cats experience the world through their senses. The two remaining classes were outings the KAUST Cattery, where the students had the opportunity to interact with the cats, handle them, feed them and learn about their behavior and the process of TNR and visit the facility. The program coordinated by two KAUST staff members involved in the TNR Initiative, Annie Parenteau and Francesca Serra, was a resounding success.

The TNR Initiative is grateful to TKS for this opportunity to educate children about cats in the community. “The goal of the program was to empower young people, foster a sense of responsibility and respect towards pets and community cats, and create a more harmonious environment for all,” adds Francesca Serra.

John Amosa, Director of Activities and Athletics at TKS, says: ” There was a lot of enthusiasm and curiosity about the “Cat Community Club” activity; and it had genuine appeal to kids who are fond of cats and care about their welfare within our community. We’re hoping that the success of this activity will lead to a cohort of new ambassadors advocating for cats and educating their peers about TNR and providing care for community cats at KAUST. “

Due to the overwhelming success of the program, the Cattery volunteers have decided to offer extra days to children and teenagers who are interested in visiting the Cattery and learning more about TNR best practices. “This is a wonderful opportunity for young people to engage with their community and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of animal welfare,” mentions Annie Parenteau. Also, the “Cat Community Club” afterschool program will be repeated in the fall of 2023

Congratulations to all the participants in the after-school program! The TNR Initiative looks forward to continuing to work with the community to promote responsible pet ownership and TNR practices.

If you wish to visit the Cattery and learn more about community cats, please contact tnrkaust@gmail.com to reserve your spot. Children under 18 years old must be accompanied by a parent or tutor.

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What is Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR)

Trap-Neuter-Return, or “TNR,” is the most humane and effective method known for managing stray cats and reducing their numbers. The cats, who typically live together in a group called a colony, are trapped and brought to a veterinary clinic. They’re then spayed (females) or neutered (males), vaccinated for rabies and ear tipped (cats miss the tip of their left ear). After they’ve recovered from their surgeries, the cats are returned back to their original territory where a caretaker provides regular food and shelter. When foster or permanent homes are available, friendly cats are placed for adoption.