Stay tuned for more community cat resources! 

Fairfax County Animal Services takes an individualized approach to the care of every animal and actively supports comprehensive community cat management programs. These programs are designed to promote cat welfare and support the bond between caregivers and cats in our community.

While we advocate for pet cats to live indoors, we recognize that outdoor cat populations persist, and that effective, humane solutions are essential. Unstructured removal of healthy adult cats can unintentionally prevent pets from being reunited with their families, disproportionately impact underserved communities and often fail to resolve the root causes of nuisance concerns.

Community cat populations may include:

• Feral cats
• Semi-socialized cats
• Lost or abandoned cats
• Kittens born outdoors

Successful management requires a thoughtful, multifaceted approach that considers:

• The best interest of each individual cat
• The rights of potential owners or caregivers
• Environmental factors
• Available community resources

Our Programs

To safeguard both cats and the community, Fairfax County Animal Services offers a variety of programs for community cats and their caregivers:

• Community Cat Spay/Neuter: For feral and unsocialized cats who would not thrive if removed from their territory. Cats are humanely trapped, sterilized, vaccinated and returned to their outdoor home.
• Return to Home: Supports the safe return of lost or stray owned cats to their families, helping to reduce shelter intake and keep pets with their people.
• Triage for Intake and Rehoming: Provides evaluation and care for unowned kittens and adult cats, with the goal of appropriate placement through foster or adoption.
• Identification Assistance: Encourages microchipping and collars with ID tags for owned and managed cats to facilitate reunification with caregivers and families.

For trap loan and clinic reservations, or for more information, please email us at CommunityCats@fairfaxcounty.gov.