Okmulgee resident Kathy Barton has taken a proactive approach to addressing the growing cat population in downtown Okmulgee. Through her dedication, she has raised hundreds of dollars in donations from local businesses and residents to provide TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) services for the community’s cats.
Okmulgee resident Kathy Barton has taken a proactive approach to addressing the growing cat population in downtown Okmulgee. Through her dedication, she has raised hundreds of dollars in donations from local businesses and residents to provide TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) services for the community’s cats.
While researching online, OCHS discovered that T-Town TNR was hosting a free event for rescues across the state, supported by Greater Good Charities. Kathy and John Barton successfully trapped four cats, which the OCHS transported to the T-Town TNR Snip Tip Hooray clinic. Impressively, the event led to 1,114 cats from Tulsa and surrounding areas being neutered and vaccinated. To date, eight downtown Okmulgee cats have received TNR services.
Cats receiving TNR services undergo testing, vaccination, spaying or neutering, and receive a distinctive ear clip, which serves as a visible indicator that the cat has been vaccinated and is no longer able to reproduce. This humane practice prevents further exacerbation of overpopulation.
Some OCHS supporters have asked why feral cats are returned after TNR. These downtown cats are part of their established colonies and are accustomed to their environment. Relocating them to unknown territories would jeopardize their welfare and survival, as they might struggle to adapt or face hostility from other colonies.
Visitors to downtown Okmulgee may notice bowls of food and water placed in doorways and alleyways. These are provided by local businesses that have embraced these furry visitors, often greeted in the mornings by cats eagerly awaiting their meals.
Great strides have been made in reducing the local cat population, thanks to the collaborative efforts of residents, businesses and organizations. Each TNR procedure costs approximately $100, and additional donations are always needed to continue this important work. If you’d like to support the TNR initiative, here’s how you can donate:
• Online: OCHS Donation Page
• By Mail: OCHS, P.O. Box 663, Okmulgee, OK 74447
• In Person: OCHS Office, 115 S. Muskogee Ave., Okmulgee, OK 74447 We extend our heartfelt thanks to Kathy and John Barton, local businesses and residents and T-Town TNR for their invaluable contributions to this effort.
