Skip to main content

Community cats

Community cats are free-roaming, unowned cat who live outdoors but might be fed or cared for by people. Some used to be owned, but were abandoned/dumped by their owners. Some are friendly; many fear humans. TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) and caretaker support enable us to effectively and humanely reduce the population over time.

Helping the cats

From trapping and transportation to veterinary care and ongoing support, these numbers reflect the incredible effort it takes to improve the lives of community cats.

miles driven

hours vet care provided

hours trapping

cats served

TNR scheduling

By appointment only

TNR appointments are available Thursdays and Fridays by appointment only. Spring and summer clinics may book one to two months in advance.

Call or email our Community Cat Coordinator to schedule.

Call (734) 661-3523

Email TNR@hshv.org



Winter considerations

In winter, we ask traps be checked frequently. We have a sheltered space for them to be while awaiting their spay/neuter surgery.




Preparation tips

Each cat must arrive in its own live trap (not carriers)—otherwise a $50 fee applies, and we reserve the right to turn away cat(s) who are improperly contained. Leaving food one day before trapping is recommended, but water is fine. Traps are set the day before your appointment, and cats are released the next morning.

TNR events

TNR Extravaganza

Weekend events where community members drop off trapped cats select Saturday or Sunday mornings and pick them up the following morning. The source includes example pricing and explains that tickets cover services such as spay/neuter, vaccinations, flea/tick prevention, and ear-tipping.



Volunteering

We love our volunteers! From washing traps to transporting cats, we appreciate your help. If you're not already an HSHV volunteer, please attend a New Volunteer Orientation!


Pricing

PackageWhat's includedPrice
Basic In-CountySpay/neuter surgery, Rabies vaccine, FVRCP vaccine, ear tip$40
Basic Out-of-CountySpay/neuter surgery, Rabies vaccine, FVRCP vaccine, ear tip$90

Pricing is per cat. Appointments are required. Ear tips are required for cats going through HSHV’s TNR program.

ServiceWhat's includedPrice
MicrochipPermanent ID implanted under the skin$30
PraziJectPraziquantel dewormer treatment for tapeworm$10
RevolutionTopical flea and tick treatment$15
NexGard COMBOTopical flea/tick/broad-spectrum worm treatment$34*

*Price is before MI state tax.

PackageWhat's includedPrice
Basic repair / wound or illness careExamination, clean wound site, antibiotic injection$50
Tier 2 repair / moderateX-rays, pain medication, tail amputation or eye removal$200
Tier 3 repair / complexX-rays, pain medication, limb amputation, sutures$350
FeeWhat's includedPrice
Trap transferTransfer from client’s carrier into an appropriate live trap before the appointment$50
Boarding feeCharged for each day beyond the scheduled pickup date that a cat remains at the shelter$40
Trap rental7-day rental; $65 refunded when trap is returned in good condition$75

Ways to help

Volunteer roles

From trap washing to transporting cats to/from the trapping location—we have flexible scheduling! If you're already an HSHV volunteer, contact our Community Cat Coordinator. If not, please attend a New Volunteer Orientation!

Donations

Support through financial gifts or Amazon wish‑list items to feed, trap, or shelter community cats.

Information + resource links

Looking for more guidance? Explore educational videos and other helpful information for supporting community cats.