OPERATION CATNIP: Idealism in Action

 

 

Table of Contents

 

 

1. Policy Statements

Mission Statement

1.1

FAQs

1.2

Operation Catnip Outreach

1.3

Admissions Policy

1.4

Visitors Policy

1.5

Research Policy

1.6

Research Proposal Summary

1.7

Additional Surgery Policy

1.8

Testing Policy

1.9

Unexpected Death Protocol

1.10

Bite and Scratch Protocol

1.11

Board of Directors

1.12

 

2. Program Administration

Communications

2.1

Reservation Reminder Script

2.2

Reservations Overview

2.3

Reservation Instructions

2.4

Caretaker Screening and Reservations

2.5

Trap Coordinator

2.6

Trap Loan Agreement

2.7

Caretaker Instructions: Trapping Guide

2.8

Caretaker Instructions: Clinic Drop Off & Pick Up

2.9

Caretaker Release

2.10

Reservations List

2.11

 

3. Clinic Operation

Clinic Supervisor

3.1

Gender Verification Sign

3.2

Supply Coordinator

3.3

Clinic Volunteer Coordinator

3.4

Volunteer Coordinator Supply List

3.5

Minimum Staffing Requirements

3.6

Clinic Volunteer List

3.7

Volunteer

3.8

Spay Veterinarian Orientation

3.9

Volunteer Sign In & Release

3.10

Admissions

3.11

Caretaker Registration List

3.12

Trap ID Labels

3.13

Operation Catnip Admissions Key

3.14

Admissions Supply List

3.15

Cashier

3.16

 

Table of Contents, Continued

 

 

Cashier Supply List

3.17

Anesthesia

3.18

Anesthesia Log

3.19

Anesthesia Supply List

3.20

Bladder Express

3.21

Express Supply List

3.22

Ear Crop

3.23

Ear Crop Supply List

3.24

Spay Boards

3.25

Spay Boards Supply List

3.26

Spay Preparation

3.27

Spay Prep

3.28

Spay Prep Supply List

3.29

Spay

3.30

Spay Supply List

3.31

Neuter

3.32

Neuter Supply List

3.33

Clinic Recorder and Rabies Certificate Station

3.34

Clinic Recorder and Rabies Certificates Supply List

3.35

Clinic Report

3.36

Incident Log

3.37

Recorder Sheet

3.38

Medications

3.39

Medications Supply List

3.40

Recovery

3.41

Recovery Supply List

3.42

Discharge

3.43

Discharge & Recovery Instructions

3.44

Discharge Supply List

3.45

Instruments

3.46

Instruments Supply List

3.47

Clean Up

3.48

 

4. Resources

Planning a Feral Cat Sterilization Program

4.1

Sample Budget

4.2

Crash Kit Supply List

4.3

Resources for Feral Cat Sterilization Programs

4.4

Vendor List

4.5

Feline CPR

4.6

 

Index

146

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER 1

 

POLICY STATEMENTS

 

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATION

CATNIP

P.O. Box 141023 ª Gainesville, FL  32614-1023 ª (352) 380-0940ª www.operationcatnip.org ª

A non-profit organization dedicated to humanely reducing the homeless cat population through a no-cost trap-neuter-return program

 

 
Mission Statement

 

 

It is estimated that 70 million or more stray and feral cats currently roam the alleys, fields, and backyards of the United States.

 

The traditional approach to controlling feral and stray cats has been extermination.  Long-term studies have demonstrated the futility of such a strategy, since other unaltered cats quickly replace the exterminated animals, moving in to take over the food source and resume the reproductive cycle. Public support for lethal measures is often lacking, and caretakers may interfere with official trapping attempts.

 

On the other hand, trap-neuter-return programs are a very successful method of decreasing feral cat populations.  These programs succeed at the lowest cost to the public and provide the best possible life for the cats.  Therefore, Operation Catnip, Inc. will devote all of its resources, both personnel and material, toward increasing the number of stray and feral cats sterilized at our clinics.

 

Our mission is to humanely reduce the homeless cat population by sterilizing as many cats as possible.

 

The Problem

 

Operation Catnip believes that all cats deserve a safe and caring home.  Unfortunately, many of the cats born each year are destined to be homeless.  Some will be euthanized at animal shelters; others will die as neglected strays.

 

Feral cats arise from the “throw away” cats who roam our streets, parks, farms, schools and dumpsters in search of food and shelter. Raised without human contact, they avoid people and form colonies in which they reproduce. It is estimated that up to 50% of cats euthanized at shelters are feral or offspring of ferals.

 

These cats may also become a public nuisance and health concern. Trying to control these cats by eradication can consume a significant portion of local animal control budgets. Even young feral cats are difficult to socialize for adoption, so they are usually euthanized.

The Project

 

Virtually everyone working in the field of feline welfare agrees that the number of cats born each year exceeds the number of homes available and that extensive spay/neuter programs are vital to reducing the cat surplus.  Several national humane societies have studied the population dynamics of owned and stray cats and found that, on average, owned cats produce 1.2 litters before being spayed. In contrast, stray cats have one or more litters each year.  The result is that most surplus cats arise from stray, not owned, cats.  Therefore, it is imperative that efforts to reduce the cat population target these stray and feral cats.  Ironically, these are often the very cats that are most overlooked by traditional humane societies and animal control facilities.

 

In 1994, cat lovers in Raleigh, NC joined a national effort to reduce feral cat populations through sterilization.  With the goals of reducing the numbers and relieving the suffering of homeless cats, the program provided free sterilization of feral and unowned stray cats for caretakers who agreed to feed the animals afterwards.  The program grew and it was incorporated as Operation Catnip, Inc. in NC in November, 1997.  In July, 1998, a similar program began in Gainesville, FL.

 

Operation Catnip is directed by veterinarians and carried out entirely by volunteers, including veterinary students, veterinary technicians, and cat lovers. Instead of sterilizing one cat at a time, Operation Catnip uses an efficient, high-volume approach called “Spay Day,” during which 200 cats can be spayed or neutered in a few hours. The program is funded solely by donations, fund-raisers, and grants.  Records are maintained for each cat, and local shelters are monitored for decreases in incoming cats.

 

Trapping the feral cats is the first step in the process. Operation Catnip loans humane traps to caretakers.  Specific instructions are provided on humane trapping, holding procedures and post-surgical release.  Operation Catnip does not accept pet cats for sterilization.

 

At the clinic, cats are anesthetized and surgically sterilized. The tip of the left ear is removed to identify a sterile, feral cat, following the international convention. All cats are treated for internal parasites and vaccinated against feline panleukopenia, calicivirus, herpesvirus, feline leukemia virus, and rabies. Following an injection to reverse the anesthesia, they are returned to the traps and closely monitored until they have regained consciousness.  Later the same day the cats are returned to their caretakers, who will release them back into their colonies the next day.

 

Outside of the clinics, Operation Catnip seeks to educate the public about the plight of feral cats and the benefits of trap-neuter-return programs.  Volunteers speak at schools and invite high school students to fulfill their community service requirements helping feral cats.  Experienced speakers are available to speak to other groups upon request. Operation Catnip also advertises via fliers, brochures and classified ads.  Early spay/neuter practices are strongly encouraged, as studies have shown that early altering is safe and effective. 

 

The Benefits

 

Benefits from this project include:

ö      Smaller feral cat colonies

ö      Fewer public nuisance problems

ö      Decreased shelter euthanasia rates

ö      Lower animal control costs

ö      Improved lives for stray and feral cats.

 

The Success

 

When large-scale sterilization of stray cats succeeds in reducing their population, fewer cats are euthanized at animal shelters.  This has been observed in Las Vegas, Orlando, San Diego, San Francisco and San Mateo, which all have aggressive feral cat sterilization programs.  These results suggest that this method is the most successful way of decreasing feral cat colonies with the least cost to taxpayers, while also providing the best quality of life for the animals.

 

In Alachua County, FL the euthanasia rate of cats has decreased in the past 10 years. Still, even with this decline, 60-70% of all cats entering the shelter are euthanized annually, giving Alachua County one of the highest euthanasia rates in the nation. Operation Catnip is working to change this.

 

 

Public Awareness: A Local Project With A National Impact

 

National Leadership:  The grass-roots nature of feral cat advocacy groups makes it difficult to consolidate resources and information.  In developing procedures, Operation Catnip (OC) surveyed a number of programs before selecting two established and successful resources: Alley Cat Allies and the Feral Cat Coalition (FCC). Two Operation Catnip directors visited a “Spay Day” operated by the FCC in San Diego to gain first-hand experience with one of the most successful large-scale feral cat spay/neuter programs in the country. 

 

Now OC invites feral cat advocates to visit the OC programs in Florida and North Carolina. OC’s feral cat trap-neuter-return program has been featured in several national and regional journals, animal welfare publications, Cat Fancy magazine, USA Today, and NBC’s Pet Vet. Operation Catnip representatives have been invited speakers at several national pet welfare symposia and national veterinary continuing education meetings.

 

Local Leadership:  Operation Catnip has received extensive coverage locally.  Each article or newscast has generated more public support, stressed responsible pet ownership, and recruited more volunteers.

 

Veterinary Professions:  Operation Catnip and similar large-scale trap-neuter-return programs cannot survive without the assistance of a large number of dedicated veterinarians who donate their time and facilities. Founded by local veterinarians with a long-standing stake in the community, Operation Catnip publicly recognizes the local veterinary community for its contributions.  These programs recognize the financial needs of veterinarians and refuse to accept cats who have homes. Owners inquiring about services for their cats or for strays they intend to adopt are referred to local private practices and local no/low cost programs for pets. This, in combination with intensive outreach efforts, has led to a gratifying relationship with the local veterinary community.

 

Future Veterinarians:  Operation Catnip is fortunate to have the support of two leading veterinary schools, the Colleges of Veterinary Medicine at North Carolina State University and the University of Florida. 

 

OC has recruited an enthusiastic corps of veterinary students that assists in all phases of the project.  The students at both schools meet regularly to discuss medical and social issues concerning pet overpopulation and animal welfare.  The students have sponsored a number of seminars covering topics such as early spay/neuter, “no-kill” vs. open admissions shelters, surgical alternatives such as flank vs. midline spays and the Southeastern rabies epidemic.  Although the immediate benefit of their participation is obvious, the long-term impact of veterinary professionals addressing the pet overpopulation tragedy will resonate throughout the United States for years to come.

 

 

Operation Catnip Will:

Operation Catnip Will Not:

ü       Sterilize local feral and stray cats

r      Sterilize owned pets or strays being adopted

ü       Provide routine vaccinations

r      Accept cats for adoption

ü       Tip the ears of sterilized cats

r      Relocate cats

ü       Loan traps for clinic participation

r      Participate in cat trapping for euthanasia or release to animal shelters

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATION CATNIP: Idealism in Action

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

 

1)       What is a feral cat?

A feral cat is one born and raised in the wild. Because these cats never learned to trust people, most do not make good pets. Neither house pets nor wildlife, feral cats form colonies at sites of food and shelter. Often times, a cat lover (caretaker) tries to reduce their suffering by providing food.  These unaltered cats compound the existing overpopulation problem.

 

2)       How many feral cats are there in Alachua County, FL?

A recent study estimated that there are approximately 36,000 feral and stray cats in Alachua County that were being fed by 12% of households. No one knows how many other homeless cats are not being fed. At the same time, there are an estimated 45,000 household pet cats in the county. This suggests that at least 44% of cats in Alachua County are homeless. The study also found that 90% of pet cats were spayed or neutered, as opposed to only 11% of the feral and stray cats. Taken together, these findings suggest that homeless cats are the most significant source of cat overpopulation. The result is that more than 4,000 cats each year end up at the Animal Services shelter. The continued imbalance between the number of cats and the number of homes leads to the euthanasia of 69% of all cats that enter the shelter, giving Alachua County one of the highest euthanasia rates in the nation (26 per 1000 residents). Levy JK, Woods JE, Turick SL, Etheridge DL. Number of unowned free-roaming cats in a college community in the southern United States and characteristics of community residents who feed them. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2003;223:202-205.

 

3)       How does Operation Catnip address the problem of overpopulation?

Because feral cats are wild and unadoptable, they are usually ignored by pet rescue groups or euthanized at animal control facilities. Even friendly strays are often euthanized because the number of homeless cats far exceeds the number of available homes. Over the past few years, though, an alternative approach to the control of feral cats called trap-neuter-return (TNR) has proven both effective and humane. In these TNR programs, large numbers of cats are caught, sterilized and returned to their colonies. Through this method, the number of cats living in the wild is reduced without taking their lives.

 

4)       Don’t feral cats harm wildlife?

Operation Catnip respects the lives of all animals, both feral cats and native wildlife. Feral cats, like any pets that spend time outside, can negatively impact the environment and public health. The extent of this impact is often debated and varies from colony to colony. For these reasons, and to protect the welfare of the cats themselves, OC believes society must stop ignoring this large population of cats and actively work to humanely reduce their numbers. We believe that TNR is not only the most effective way to do this, but it also respects the bond that caretakers share with the cats.

 

5)       What does Operation Catnip do?

Operation Catnip is a free spay/neuter program for feral and stray cats in Alachua County, FL. Each month, about 5 veterinarians and 40 other volunteers organize a large-scale clinic. Humane traps are loaned to caretakers who catch and transport the cats to the clinic. The cats arrive at the clinic in the morning. In just a few hours 200 cats can be sterilized. In addition, all of the cats receive vaccinations to prevent rabies, distemper, and upper respiratory illnesses and treatment for parasites. The cats also have the tip of their left ear trimmed to help identify cats that have been through the program. Reservations for the clinic are required and can be made by contacting OC.

 

6)       What if caretakers are unable to bring their cats to the monthly clinics?

Elderly caretakers and those with disabilities can contact OC for assistance in trapping and transporting their colonies to a clinic. Also, through a program dubbed OC Outreach, caretakers can bring stray and feral cats to local veterinary clinics to be sterilized, vaccinated, and ear-tipped.  Caretakers pay $25 at the time of this veterinary visit, and the clinic bills Operation Catnip for the balance. To participate in this program, caretakers make appointments directly with the participating veterinary clinics. The clinics provide the humane traps in which the cats are trapped and transported.

 

7)       How does Operation Catnip fund its free clinic?

Operation Catnip does not receive any funding from the University of Florida or any local, county or state agency. It costs about $25 for each cat treated by OC. This cost is very low because all of the veterinarians and other volunteers donate their time. Caretakers donate about a quarter of the funds needed to buy supplies each month. Operation Catnip must raise the rest through fundraisers and grants. All donations are tax-deductible. 

 

8)       How many cats have “graduated” from Operation Catnip?

In December 2003, Operation Catnip sterilized its 10,000th cat and in 2006, over 3,600 cats were sterilized. We hope that the number of cats per year continues to rise.

 

9)       Are there any other programs to help feral cats?

The Alachua County chapter of Operation Catnip is one of three such programs. The pre-cursor to the first OC chapter was established in November, 1994 at the College of Veterinary Medicine at North Carolina State University. Another chapter has since formed in Richmond, VA. For information on starting a TNR program in your community, OC offers this manual with detailed clinic instructions as well as a sample budget and resource list. For more information, visit our website at . For more information on feral cats, visit Alley Cat Allies, a national feral cat advocacy program maintaining an extensive database of feral cat programs at www.alleycat.org.  Neighborhood Cats offers a detailed cat trapping guide.  The largest TNR program in the country, AZ Cats sterilized more than 6,000 cats in 2004.

 

10)   What spay/neuter programs are available for pets in Alachua County, FL?

No More Homeless Pets (NMHP) is a community coalition working to end the euthanasia of healthy, adoptable pets in Alachua County. With the support of local veterinarians, NMHP provides low-cost and free spay and neuter vouchers.  Vouchers are available to all residents for $40 per cat and $60/65 per dog (2007 prices), regardless of the size and gender of the animal. Low-income pet owners on public assistance may qualify for free vouchers. For information on all free and low-cost spay/neuter programs in Alachua County, call Micanopy Animal Hospital (352-466-0067.) People may also contact the Alachua County Humane Society (352-373-5855) or visit www.nmhp.net.

 

11)   How can you help?

The most important thing anyone can do is spay or neuter pets. Even one litter adds to the over population problem. 

 

People can also volunteer time. Volunteers are always needed at the monthly clinics.  Assignments are available for every skill level. OC also needs to reach out to more segments of the community so that more people can help more cats. Please visit OC’s website at www.operationcatnip.org or contact the Clinic Volunteer Coordinator at operationcatnip@mail.vetmed.ufl.edu.

 

Right now, OC’s biggest need is to raise funds to keep the clinic running at full capacity. Tax-deductible donations may be sent to:

 

Operation Catnip

P.O. Box 141023

Gainesville, FL 32614

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATION CATNIP: Idealism in Action

 

 

Operation Catnip Outreach

 

 

Operation Catnip is the only provider of free feral cat sterilization in Alachua County, FL. Approximately 150-200 cats are sterilized at each monthly clinic. However, reservations for these clinics fill up weeks in advance, and qualifying cats are turned away each month. In order to meet this need, over a dozen local veterinary clinics have joined Operation Catnip to provide a “feral cat care package,” which includes sterilization, vaccination, and ear tipping in these private clinics for a markedly reduced rate.

 

This program, called OC Outreach, allows caretakers to access this network of local veterinary clinics throughout the month. Each of the clinics has been provided with two or more humane traps to lend to caretakers. Caretakers make arrangements directly with the participating clinics. This program allows caretakers more flexibility in managing their colonies. Difficult to trap cats can be sterilized at any time during the month.

 

Caretakers contribute a co-payment ($25 in 2007) per cat at the time the cats are delivered to the clinics, leaving an average balance of $25 per cat for OC to subsidize.

 

For more information on OC Outreach, contact OC or one of the participating veterinary clinics.

 

OC Outreach Participating Clinics (as of 2007):

 

All Cats HealthCare Clinic

(352) 376-2287

Butler Plaza Animal Hospital

(352) 372-6603

Gainesville Animal Hospital West

(352) 332-5366

Gainesville Animal Hospital East

(352) 372-5366

Haile Plantation Animal Clinic

(352) 377-6003

Hilltop Animal Hospital

(386) 462-3822

Micanopy Animal Hospital

(352) 466-0067

Newberry Animal Hospital

(352) 472-7035

Northwood Oaks Vet Hospital

(352) 373-7387

Oaks Veterinary Hospital

(352) 332-7387

Shores Animal Hospital

(352) 372-8387

Tri-County Veterinary Services

(352) 472-4200

West End Animal Hospital

(352) 472-7626

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATION CATNIP: Idealism in Action

 

 

Admissions Policy

 

 

Although there are many other cats that should be sterilized, Operation Catnip is committed to helping those cats that have no other options. Operation Catnip only accepts stray and feral cats that would not otherwise be sterilized. The number of these cats is so great that caretakers must often wait a month or more before space is available at a clinic.

 

Operation Catnip will accept:

 

ü       Homeless, free-roaming cats, including feral cats and unowned strays from Alachua County, FL

 

Operation Catnip will not accept:

 

r      Cats that are owned or will be adopted

r      Cats whose caretaker is unwilling to allow placement in a new home or with a rescue group, as these cats are considered owned by the caretaker

r      Cats in foster care awaiting placement in a permanent home

r      Cats younger than three months of age. Florida law requires that cats be at least three months of age to receive a rabies vaccination and certification. Also, younger kittens require more intensive care and monitoring during and after surgery.

r      Cats that may be euthanized or turned into an animal control facility following surgery.  OC will not commit resources to sterilizing cats that will not be allowed to live.

 

Admissions Procedure

 

1)       Qualifying cats must be delivered by the appointed check-in time.

 

2)       Each cat must be in a humane wire trap in order to reduce the risk of injury to volunteers and cats. Caretakers who present multiple cats in a single trap or cats in airline carriers or boxes will be reminded of this policy, and rescheduled for a future clinic.

 

3)       No food should be included in the trap as recently fed cats have a higher risk of anesthetic complications, including death. 

 

4)       Kittens younger than three months of age will be deferred to a future clinic.  If there is a question as to the approximate age of the kitten, the Clinic Supervisor will make the final determination.

 

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATION CATNIP: Idealism in Action

 

 

Visitors Policy

 

 

Operation Catnip encourages visitors who are interested in establishing or improving their own spay/neuter programs. However, visitors should have a stated purpose and must never disrupt a clinic. Caretakers will only be admitted to the clinic as serious volunteers assigned to a specific task, not simply to observe.

 

Guidelines

 

Ø       Visitors can be approved in advance by any Board member, who will then notify the Clinic Supervisor.

 

Ø       Broadcast or print media representatives must be pre-approved by a Board member and the College of Veterinary Medicine.

 

Ø       Visitors should be provided with written materials about the program in advance so they are prepared to make the most of their visit.

 

Ø       Although current rabies vaccinations are required for most volunteers, one-time visitors may attend a clinic on the condition that they sign a liability waiver and do not handle any cats.

 

Ø       All visitors will receive an orientation advising them of clinic policies and procedures.

 

Ø       Volunteers may not bring visitors or caretakers into the clinic unless pre-approved by a Board member or the Clinic Supervisor.

 

Ø       Any visitor impeding the efficiency of the clinic will be asked to leave.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATION CATNIP: Idealism in Action

 

 

Research Policy

 

 

Operation Catnip invites researchers to partake of the opportunities provided by a feral cat spay/neuter clinic.  Studies addressing feral cat health and epidemiology are particularly encouraged. Other studies that reduce the need for purpose-bred research animals by using samples or discarded tissues or that contribute to feline health and welfare are also welcome.  Research must not harm the cats or interfere with the clinic.  Investigators must provide all necessary supplies and labor.

 

This all-volunteer clinic is supported solely by contributions and grants and operates on a narrow margin. Thus subsidies to OC allow the continuation of the free clinic and research opportunities. In lieu of subsidies, investigators are encouraged to contribute volunteers or supplies to the clinic.  A list of vendors, supplies and prices is available. Please contact the Supply Coordinator before ordering supplies.

 

Application Procedure

 

Complete the Research Proposal Summary form (next section). Three printed copies of the complete research proposal (or a single electronic copy) must be submitted to the Operation Catnip Board of Directors for approval prior to beginning any studies. Proposals are limited to two typed pages and should include:

 

1)       Title

2)       Names, titles, addresses, contact numbers and e-mails of investigators

3)       Background and significance

4)       Overall study design

5)       Clinic activities and estimated schedule

6)       Estimated number of cats involved

7)       Operation Catnip subsidy

8)       References

 

If the project is supported by a funding agency, a single copy of the larger proposal should also be submitted.  The proposals will be distributed to the Board of Directors for review.  A majority of the Board members must approve the proposal.  The Secretary will include the action of the Board in the next meeting minutes.  If the Principal Investigator (PI) would like to address the Board, the item will be placed on the agenda for an upcoming meeting.  A written report of the decision of the Board will be made to the PI within 30 days of the proposal submission.  A copy of an approved IACUC application must be provided to the Board before the research can begin.

 

Project Renewal

 

At the end of 12 months following the initial approval of the project, the PI will submit three printed copies (or one electronic copy) of a one-page renewal application.  The renewal application will include items 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7 listed above, as well as a brief summary of the previous year’s work.  The Board will vote on the renewal of projects as above.

 

Project Termination

 

The Board may vote at any time to terminate investigator access to the clinic if the project interferes with the efficient operation or the humane objectives of Operation Catnip.  The PI will be given an opportunity to address the Board before a final determination is rendered.

 

Research Reports

 

The Board wishes to keep a record of the research productivity of the clinic.  PIs should submit copies of any papers, abstracts, or lecture notices for which OC resources were used.  The contributions of OC to the project should be acknowledged in any publications.  The Board realizes the additional efforts the application and reporting procedures will require. These records are intended to enhance the quality of research performed in the clinic and provide evidence of the positive partnership that exists between OC and the College of Veterinary Medicine.

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATION

CATNIP

P.O. Box 141023 ª Gainesville, FL  32614-1023 ª (352) 380-0940ª www.operationcatnip.org ª

A non-profit organization dedicated to humanely reducing the homeless cat population through a no-cost trap-neuter-return program

 

 

Research Proposal Summary

 

 

 

APPLICATION DATE:  _________________

 

TITLE:  ___________________________________________________________________________________

 

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR __________________________________________________________________

 

WORK ADDRESS:                                                                                                                                                                ____________________________________________   DEPT: ___________________

 

                        City      ____________________________   State  _________________    Zip  ______________

 

PHONE:            Work  (______) _______________ Ext. __________

 

                        Cell     (______) _____________________     Fax     (______) _______________

 

                        Email _____________________________________

                             

 

STUDY TYPE:         q  FELINE HEALTH                        q  FELINE WELFARE/EPIDEMIOLOGY

 

                              q  BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH          q  OTHER__________________________

 

 

ACTION:                 q  APPROVED                               q  DENIED

 

 

REVIEW DATE:   _________________

 

 

RENEWAL APPLICATION:  ___________________________________________________________

 

ALSO ATTACH:      

 

1)      Names, titles and contact information of other investigators

2)      Background and significance

3)      Overall study design

4)      Clinic activities and estimated schedule

5)      Estimated number of cats involved

6)      Operation Catnip subsidy

7)      References

 

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATION CATNIP: Idealism in Action

 

 

Other Medical Procedures Policy

 

 

The mission of Operation Catnip is to reduce the number of homeless feral cats by sterilizing as many cats as possible.  To achieve this goal, OC devotes all its resources, both in terms of time and funding, to sterilization.  Feral cats commonly arrive at each clinic with a variety of medical problems. While humane intentions mandate that these conditions receive appropriate veterinary attention, it is not always possible within the narrow limitations of an outpatient spay/neuter clinic. Generally, if the procedure is medically advisable (not cosmetic), easily corrected with available resources, requires little specialized post-operative care, has low risk of post-operative complications, and does not detract from the overall efficiency of the clinic, it will be performed. Thus the following questions determine the appropriateness of additional medical procedures performed at OC:

 

1)       Does the condition interfere with the cat’s quality of life?

2)       Will correction of the condition divert substantial surgery time and clinic resources from sterilization?

3)       Does the clinic have the necessary drugs, materials, instruments and expertise to perform the procedure properly?

4)       Will appropriate post-operative care be provided?

5)       Will the condition or its treatment interfere with the cat’s well being after release?

 

Procedures Performed by Operation Catnip:

 

ü       Neutering cryptorchid male

ü       Ovariohysterectomy (spay) for pyometra (unless septicemic)

ü       Repairing umbilical hernias in females as part of a ventral midline approach

ü       Repairing significant umbilical hernias in males

ü       Lancing and draining abscess

ü       Suturing minor lacerations

ü       Removal of loose teeth

ü       Amputation of digit

ü       Tail amputation (full or partial)

ü       Simple lumpectomies if lump interferes with normal function

ü       CPR, if underlying cause of arrest is likely to resolve, as in anesthetic complication

 

Feral cats are commonly afflicted with more serious injuries such as ruptured eyes and fractured extremities. While veterinary care for these injuries is indicated, such involved procedures are not within the scope of an outpatient clinic. These cases should be referred to a full-service clinic where facilities are available for proper surgery and follow-up care. All decisions concerning additional medical procedures are made by the Clinic Supervisor.

 

Procedures NOT Performed by Operation Catnip:

 

r      Ophthalmic surgery (including enucleations)

r      Orthopedic surgeries

r      Major tumor excisions

r      Dental extractions requiring dental instruments or cutting drills

r      Gastrointestinal or urologic surgeries

r      Pinna amputations

r      Surgeries judged to be primarily cosmetic

r      CPR, if underlying cause of arrest is a severe medical condition, or cat is unlikely to survive

 

The caretaker will be informed of problems treated at OC or problems that require additional care at a full-service veterinary clinic.  If further care will not be provided, or if the Clinic Supervisor determines that the condition is too severe to release the cat, euthanasia may be performed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATION CATNIP: Idealism in Action

 

 

FeLV and FIV Testing Policy

 

 

In October, 1996, Operation Catnip elected to cease testing cats for feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV).  Testing for infectious diseases is performed at OC clinics only in approved research projects.  Caretakers who wish to have feral cats tested should have it performed at a regular veterinary clinic BEFORE bringing the cat to OC for sterilization.  Under no circumstances should cats be sterilized through an OC clinic and then euthanized later if they test positive for infection.  This wastes clinic resources that could be spent on cats that will be permitted to live.  In addition, to subject a cat to the stress and pain of surgery only to euthanize it shortly thereafter violates the humane mission of OC.

 

Financial Costs

 

Testing costs about $15 per cat, almost as much as neutering or spaying one cat.  Therefore, testing would increase the cost of running the clinic.  The rate of infection with these viruses is very low (4% for FeLV and 4% for FIV).  This means almost $300 would be spent to identify each single positive cat.  In addition to the cost of testing, the time spent on collecting blood and running tests would also reduce the number of cats being spayed or neutered.

 

Test Reliability

 

Mass screening of healthy cats can result in a large percentage of false positive results.  Ideally, positive screening tests should be reconfirmed by another kind of test and by retesting a few months later.  This is virtually impossible with feral cats.  OC’s previous policy of euthanizing healthy positive cats undoubtedly resulted in inadvertent euthanasia of negative cats as well as those cats that were not clinically ill from their infections. 

 

Emotional Costs

 

Almost all of the cats euthanized for testing positive at OC clinics appeared outwardly healthy.  As the rate of infection in feral cats is the same as in owned pet cats, many caretakers and volunteers felt that there was a double standard that called for harsher treatment for feral cats than for pet cats in the community.  OC veterinarians still have the discretion to euthanize cats that are too ill or injured to release, regardless of their infection status.

 

Decreasing Transmission

 

The goal of OC is to sterilize as many cats as possible in order to reduce the number of cats that must live as unowned strays.  Diverting resources from this mission will result in fewer cats spayed and neutered and more kittens born into this difficult life.  Since FeLV is primarily spread from infected mother cats to their kittens, and FIV passes mainly among fighting tomcats through bite wounds, spaying and neutering alone will decrease the spread of these infections.

 

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATION CATNIP: Idealism in Action

 

 

Unexpected  Death Protocol

 

 

Spay and neuter surgeries, like any medical procedures, expose animals to unexpected complications.  The feral cats treated at OC are at even greater risk than pets treated by traditional veterinary clinics.  There is no way to determine the cats’ ages or discover any pre-existing medical conditions prior to anesthesia.  In addition, the high stress experienced by captive feral cats increases their risk of anesthetic complications.  Finally, the wild nature of feral cats does not allow handling and observation during the recovery period, making it difficult to recognize and treat post-operative problems.

 

Remarkably, the rate of unexpected death during or after OC clinics is extremely low and equivalent to that of full-service veterinary hospitals. Between July, 1998 and December 2004, the Gainesville Chapter of OC recorded 31 deaths out of 12,011 surgeries, yielding an unexpected death rate of 0.26% (less than 3 per 1000 cats).  In some of these cases, serious underlying medical conditions were discovered during necropsy.  In the remaining deaths, complications associated with anesthesia, surgery, or post-operative care were the cause.

 

While a certain number of complications associated with surgery are unavoidable, OC constantly strives to provide the highest level of care.  Thus caretakers are instructed to notify OC of any adverse event.  A thorough examination of the incident is then undertaken in order to prevent such circumstances in the future.

 

Ø       All cats that die unexpectedly during the clinic will undergo a necropsy to determine the cause of death.

 

Ø       Caretakers of cats that die after release are advised to notify OC immediately so arrangements can be made to promptly return the body, as necropsies are most informative when performed within 24 hours of death. Caretakers are advised to place the body in a plastic bag and preserve it by refrigeration (not freezing) until the body can be returned.

 

Ø       All fatal and non-fatal complications occurring during or after the clinic will be reported to the Clinic Recorder, who will record the details in the Incident Log.  The incident will be discussed at the next Board meeting, when appropriate actions, if any, will be determined.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATION CATNIP: Idealism in Action

 

 

Bite and Scratch Protocol

 

 

The rabies virus has reached epidemic proportions in many parts of the United States.  Humans acquire the virus through contact with the virus-laden saliva of an infected animal (raccoon, skunk, bat, fox, cat, dog, etc.).  Blood and other body fluids are much less common sources of infection.  Bites and scratches are the most common means of transmission from animals to humans.  The rabies virus is 100% FATAL once a person starts showing signs of infection.

 

There is no known treatment for rabies, either in humans or in animals. The only course of action is a series of post-exposure vaccinations given to a person suspected of rabies exposure.  While these shots are extremely effective if started within four days of exposure, they are very expensive. The ONLY definitive test to detect rabies in an animal is to euthanize the animal, remove the head, and inspect the brain tissue for the virus.

 

Spread of and infection with the rabies virus can be controlled through both human and animal vaccinations.  The vaccination protocol in animals three months and older consists of one vaccination, followed by a booster a year later.  Boosters are then given every one to three years depending on local laws.  The pre-exposure vaccination in humans consists of a series of three intradermal shots given at days 0, 7, and 14 or 21.  They are relatively painless and very effective in preventing infection.  Side effects and adverse reactions are uncommon.

 

Any vaccinated person bitten by a rabies-suspect animal is still required to undergo a series of follow-up vaccinations.  Vaccines are available from health departments, private physicians, and some plasma donation centers.

 

Since cats coming through OC may have been exposed to the virus and are likely to bite defensively, OC’s clinic procedures forbid the handling of ANY conscious cat. If anyone is bitten or scratched, the local and state laws determine the protocol to protect both volunteers and cats and comply with the North Carolina and Florida Rabies Laws.

 

Rabies is not the only threat from bites & scratches.  Of all animal-inflicted wounds, cat bites are notorious for rapidly leading to serious infection.  Public health guidelines call for immediate medical attention and antibiotics to reduce the risk for life-threatening or debilitating infections following cat bites.

 

Obtaining Rabies Vaccinations

 

Physicians vary in their fees and not all health insurance companies cover rabies vaccinations.  Therefore, it is advisable to compare the costs of the pre-exposure vaccine series. Several sources are listed below.

 

UF Student Health Care Center – (352) 392-1161, ext. 4820

 

Alachua County Health Department - (352) 334-7910

 

 

Preventing Bites and Scratches

 

1)       OBTAIN rabies vaccinations. It is required that all OC volunteers who will have direct contact with the cats have current rabies vaccinations (vaccine series or protective titer within the past 24 months). Rabies vaccination is not required for volunteers who will not have direct contact with the cats, but it is highly recommended, since it is impossible to predict circumstances that may bring a person into contact with a cat or cat saliva. Upon check-in, each volunteer must verify that they are currently vaccinated or sign the informed consent waiver.

 

2)       WEAR gloves. Even if vaccinated, volunteers must wear latex or nitrile (but not vinyl) gloves at all times to protect themselves from cat saliva.  Gloves should be relatively clean, free of holes and tears and changed when soiled or torn.

 

3)       DO NOT HANDLE ANY CONSCIOUS CAT.  Under no circumstances must any volunteer handle a cat that is not anesthetized. This puts the cat at risk for euthanasia by Animal Services it the cat bites or scratches. Any volunteer handling a conscious cat will be dismissed. No volunteer who jeopardizes themselves, the cats, or the program is eligible to participate in OC.

 

4)       DO NOT OPEN TRAPS unless the cat is fully anesthetized. No trap containing a conscious cat should ever be opened anywhere in the building or on the University premises.  If a cat should escape inside during the clinic, proper confinement should be attempted by corralling the animal into a small area, but absolutely no attempts should be made to catch or handle the animal without proper equipment (nets, traps, etc.), and then only by the Clinic Supervisor. If a cat escapes outside, the same principles apply; traps may be placed to attempt to trap the animal. No volunteer must risk their own safety or that of the cat to rescue an escapee.

 

Bite and Scratch Protocol

 

1)       Caretakers bringing cats to OC are responsible for their cats until the animal has been checked in to the clinic.  Caretakers are responsible for initiating further action, either on their behalf or the behalf of the animal, if they are bitten or scratched before the animal is checked in or after it has been checked out.  Injured caretakers are advised to seek medical attention immediately.

 

2)       In the event that a volunteer is bitten or scratched by a cat after it is admitted to OC, the following protocol will be followed:

 

Ø       WASH all cuts, scratches, bites and abrasions immediately and thoroughly in copious, warm soapy water.  Aside from the risk of rabies, bites and scratches can lead to serious infections.

 

Ø       ADVISE the injured person to seek medical attention.  If follow-up vaccinations or medical treatment are required for the volunteer, it will be at the expense of that volunteer.

 

Ø       REPORT the incident immediately to a Clinic Supervisor, who will record the injury in the Incident Log and report the wound to Alachua County Animal Services.

 

Ø       LABEL the cat’s trap “ISOLATION.”

 

Ø       REMOVE the cat to an isolated area once it completes the clinic rotation. If the animal is not euthanized, it must be quarantined by a veterinarian for 10 days.  Any isolation or quarantine of the cat is provided at the expense of OC.


 

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATION CATNIP: Idealism in Action

 

 

Board of Directors – Gainesville Chapter

 

 

President

Dr. Julie Levy, DVM, PhD, DACVIM

College of Veterinary Medicine

P.O. Box 100126

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL  32608

levyj@mail.vetmed.ufl.edu

 

 

Vice President

Dr. Cynda Crawford, PhD, DVM

College of Veterinary Medicine

P.O. Box 100126

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL  32608

crawfordc@mail.vetmed.ufl.edu

 

 

Treasurer

Karen Scott, PhD

College of Veterinary Medicine

P.O. Box 100126

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL  32608

scottk@mail.vetmed.ufl.edu

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER 2

 

PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATION CATNIP: Idealism in Action

 

 

Communications

 

 

The Communications Coordinator is responsible for training the phone staff and responding to public inquiries.

 

Operation Catnip maintains no offices, thus all phone inquiries are handled via trained phone volunteers.  Clinic reservations are made by phone operators who screen cats for eligibility, inform caretakers where to obtain traps, and describe the procedures of preparing the cats for surgery.  The Caretaker Screening and Reservations forms are forwarded to the Reservations Coordinator. Questions, complaints and publicity requests are forwarded to the Communications Coordinator, who compiles and disseminates information to the public and volunteers.

 

The Communications Coordinator routes inquiries to the appropriate personnel. Trapping requests are forwarded to the Trapping Coordinator, while interview requests are cleared with the Board. The Reservations Coordinator compiles and forwards the Reservations List to the Communications Coordinator, so phone volunteers can contact caretakers. The Communications Coordinator trains and schedules these volunteers and continually keeps them apprised of any changes to Operation Catnip policies. The reminder calls are made 7 to 10 days before each clinic. Phone volunteers are provided with scripts and FAQs sheets.

 

The Communications Coordinator periodically advises Board members of any persistent public concerns. 


 

 

 

 

 

OPERATION CATNIP: Idealism in Action

 

 

Reservation Reminder Script

 

 

Take care to pronounce the caretaker’s name correctly. Politely ask for clarification if necessary.

 

Ø       “I’m with Operation Catnip. We’re calling to confirm your reservation for NUMBER cat(s) for the Sunday DATE Spay Day.”

 

Ø       “When you collect your trap(s), you will receive a Trapping Guide and detailed Clinic Drop-Off and Pick-Up Instructions.”

 

Ø       “You must arrive at the clinic between 8 and 9 am. There’s usually a wait to check in. The earlier you arrive, the shorter the wait usually.”

 

Ø       “Bring the cats to the Operation Catnip sign-in table behind UF’s Veterinary College (2015 SW 16th Ave). Signs on SW 16th Avenue will direct you.”

 

Ø       “Under no circumstances should you enter the veterinary school or ring the emergency door buzzer.  The facilities are loaned to us, and we can’t interfere with the operation of the vet school.”

 

Ø       “For the safety of the cats and volunteers only wire traps are allowed. We can’t accept cats in other carriers.”

 

Ø       “Be sure only one cat is in each trap. We can’t open the traps to transfer cats on the grounds, so we can’t accept multiple cats in one trap.”

 

Ø       “It’s very dangerous for cats to eat before surgery.  Food must be removed from the traps the night before the clinic. We can’t accept cats with food in their traps.”

 

Ø       “Cats must be at least 3 months old to receive a rabies vaccine.  Also, younger kittens are less able to withstand anesthesia.  Kittens that appear less than 3 months old will be deferred to a future clinic.”

 

Ø       “At the end of the day when you collect your cats, you will receive Discharge Instructions about feeding and releasing your cat(s).”

 

Ø       “Operation Catnip has a limited number of traps available for loan and a large number of caretakers waiting to borrow them.  Please clean and return the traps within one week of the clinic.“

 

Ø       “We appreciate your joining Operation Catnip in helping the homeless cats in our community. We can always use volunteers and donations.

 

Ø       “It cost about $25 to treat each cat at Operation Catnip. We can keep the cost so low because all the veterinarians and volunteers give their time for free. But we still need to pay for supplies and drugs. Any amount you can donate would be greatly appreciated. The entire amount will go to helping more cats.”

 

Ø       “We look forward to seeing you on Sunday, DATE.”

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATION CATNIP: Idealism in Action

 

 

Reservations

 

 

The Reservations Coordinator is responsible for keeping track of the number of reservations and compiling the Reservations Lists.

 

Operation Catnip maintains no offices, thus all phone reservations are handled via a professional phone bank. Trained personnel collect reservations using the Caretaker Screening and Reservations forms. Caretakers are screened for residency requirements and admissions criteria. Operators are provided with the FAQs sheet in order to answer routine inquires. Other inquiries are forwarded to the Communications Coordinator.

 

Each caretaker is assigned a preferred trap depot where they may borrow traps. The Reservations Coordinator tracks the number of requests for traps and routes people to alternative depots when any location is overbooked.

 

The Reservations Coordinator confers with the Clinic Supervisor to determine when to close the clinic to reservations, assessing the projected number of veterinarians, volunteers and supplies.  In general, the clinic is overbooked by 30% to account for reservations that are not used (cats not willing to be trapped).

 

The Reservations Coordinator compiles and forwards the Reservations List to the Communications Coordinator 7 to 10 days before a clinic, allowing phone volunteers to make reminder calls to caretakers. The Reservations List is given to Admissions staff the morning of the clinic. The Reservations Coordinator also provides the Reservation Sign-Up sheet for the next clinic.

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATION CATNIP: Idealism in Action

 

 

Reservation Instructions

 

 

Thank you for contacting Operation Catnip. If you wish to bring feral or stray cats to our next clinic:

 

1)       Call with the following information:

Name

Address

Phone number

                E-mail

Number of cats you plan to bring (up to 5 per clinic—one cat per trap)

Where you want to collect your trap(s). Personal traps are acceptable.

All cats must arrive in a humane wire trap in order to protect our volunteers and veterinarians.

Cats in plastic kennels and cardboard boxes will not be accepted.

Traps are available at any of the following Operation Catnip supporters:

Alachua County Humane Society            2029 NW 6th St., Gainesville                  373-5855

West End Animal Hospital                     15318 W Newberry Rd., Newberry           472-7626

Earth Pets                                             500 NW 60th St., Suite F, Gainesville      331-5123

Please call for hours. Explain you need to borrow traps for Operation Catnip.

The trap depot will ask for a $50.00 per trap deposit. This check is NOT cashed unless you do not return the traps.

 

2)       Feed the cats at the same time and place each day.

 

3)       Collect the trap(s) the week before the clinic.

 

4)       Set the traps where the cats are normally feed. Place a SMALL amount of food in each trap. Make sure no other food is available. The cats must have NO FOOD AFTER 9:00 pm Saturday.

 

5)       Bring the cats Sunday morning between 8:00 and 9:00 am to the University of Florida, College of Veterinary Medicine, 2015 SW 16th Avenue, Gainesville. Signs will direct everyone to Operation Catnip.

 

6)       Collect the cats Sunday afternoon at the time stated (usually between 1:00 and 4:00 pm).

 

7)       Release the cats the next morning where they were trapped.

 

8)       Return the traps to the same trap depot within one week and reclaim the deposit.

 

All cats will be spayed or neutered and vaccinated against rabies, distemper, and respiratory infection. Their left ears will be tipped to prevent their being resubmitted to the program. Please be aware that resources are limited, and Operation Catnip is for unowned stray and feral cats only. It costs about $25 to sterilize each cat. Please be as generous as possible with your donation.

 

If a caretaker is unable to attend a monthly clinic, please consider Operation Catnip Outreach. For a $25 co-payment, an appointment can be made with any of the participating vets in the community. Operation Catnip will pay the remainder of the cost.

 

Operation Catnip appreciates all participation in this program.  Please contact Operation Catnip with any  questions.


 

 

 

 

 

OPERATION CATNIP: Idealism in Action

 

 

Caretaker Screening and Reservations

 

 

DATE:              ___________________ New Caretaker ___     Repeat Caretaker ___

 

ADDRESS:                                                                                                                                                               _________________________________________________________   Apt # ______________

 

                        City      ____________________________   State  _________________    Zip  ______________

 

PHONE:            Home  (______) _____________________     Work  (______) _______________ Ext. __________

 

                        Cell     (______) _____________________     Email _____________________________________

 

CLINIC:             Date _______________  Time ___________   Number of Cats       ______

 

DEPOT:            Location ____________________________   Number of Traps     ______

 

DONATION:      Amount _____________

 

ADMISSIONS CRITERIA:

 

__   Unowned                                                    __   Older than 3 months                                  

__   Free-roaming                                               __   Adoption acceptable                                  

__   Returning to colony                                     __   Ear crop acceptable

__   Will not be surrendered to

animal services or euthanized

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATION CATNIP: Idealism in Action

 

 

Trap Coordinator

 

 

The Trap Coordinator is responsible for establishing and maintaining a network of trap depots within the community.

 

OC maintains no offices, thus the humane wire traps loaned to caretakers must be held and distributed from several “trap depots”.  The Trap Coordinator arranges locations such as pet stores, vet clinics, humane societies, and private residences that might be willing to participate. Several depots should be located throughout the community, as having a depot nearby encourages caretaker participation.

 

The distribution of humane traps is crucial for a successful clinic, since few caretakers have their own traps and because plastic carriers and cardboard boxes present safety concerns for the cats, caretakers and volunteers. As cats are best immobilized and anesthetized within a wire trap, OC purchases these humane live animal traps. A network of willing and sympathetic businesses and organizations then is used to efficiently distribute and redeem the traps. OC provides copies of Trap Loan Agreements and Caretaker Instructions to each depot. Not only must a trap depot agree to securely hold a significant number of traps, but they must be willing to process the necessary paperwork and hold the caretakers’ deposits.