The Shaunavon Pawsitive Cattitude Committee is excited to share the story behind our town’s cat management program, how resident concerns sparked action, the progress made to date, and where we are...
The Shaunavon Pawsitive Cattitude Committee is excited to share the story behind our town’s cat management program, how resident concerns sparked action, the progress made to date, and where we are heading next. Take a few minutes to read our journey below, scroll to the bottom for details on our upcoming community info night, and find comprehensive resources at https://www.alleycat.org/resources/how-to-live-with-cats-in-your-neighborhood/ .
BACKGROUND:
Managing community cats is a long-standing challenge shared by municipalities everywhere, and Shaunavon has felt its effects for years. In response to resident concerns reporting late-night noise, territorial marking, and visible distress among local strays, Town Council took action to investigate and remediate the issue. Initial trapping efforts revealed a critical reality: the vast majority of animals captured were not wandering domestic pets, but rather stray and feral cats. Council conducted extensive research through discussions with the Shaunavon Animal Clinic and the Swift Current SPCA to gather insight and find the best solution for our community’s cat population needs. Council recognized that removal methods only offer temporary relief, and determined that stabilizing this population requires an organized, sustainable, and humane management strategy.
To create a healthier, managed community cat population, Council took action by directing to establish a Feline Population Management Committee (Pawsitive Cattitude Cat Committee) at the December 17, 2025 meeting. The group is made up of select members of council and administration, and local volunteers passionate about animal welfare and neighborhood well-being. Their goals are to support a healthy community feline population, by promoting responsible pet ownership, and education through “Feline Fun Facts” surrounding insights on TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return), general cat behavior, breeding facts, the benefits of spaying and neutering, and more. The below graphics briefly explains how Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) works and why it is the proven standard for long-term population stability, and also explains what an ear notch is.
Through the committee’s advocacy, Council enacted an updated Animal Control Bylaw and replaced outdated traps with modern, humane equipment. This year, volunteers have been directly addressing known locations of concern, actively working to humanely manage high-population areas.
Field Results: over 50 Cats Reached Since July
Since putting boots on the ground in late July, the committee’s hands-on efforts have already created a measurable difference across town:
More than 50 Cats impacted: Through trapping and spaying/neutering, this program is ending breeding cycles across multiple neighborhoods to establish healthy cat colonies.
Compassionate Care for the Vulnerable: Humane animal management means ending unnecessary suffering. One severely compromised tomcat found with advanced, painful cancer surrounding his mouth and body (leaving him unable to eat) was humanely and peacefully euthanized under veterinary care.
A Future for New Generations: One female cat, Kiwi, was safely brought in just before delivering her litter. Thanks to quick intervention, Kiwi delivered in a safe, warm environment, and both mama and kittens are healthy and thriving in a safe home.
The Shaunavon Animal Clinic has been an indispensable resource throughout this rollout. Their team has provided care and oversight, affirming that the Pawsitive Cattitude TNR model represents the healthiest, most compassionate, and most responsible way to manage community cat colonies.
Upcoming Public Information Night
With colder temperatures arriving, active trapping is pausing for the season to ensure animals are not exposed to cold stress or trap times. However, the committee's work behind the scenes is ongoing! The committee invites the community to an upcoming “Feline Forum” event:
Date: Wednesday, November 18, 2026
Time & Location: 6:30 PM @ LSB Legacy Wickenheiser Centre Greenslade Lounge (Curling Lounge 2nd Floor)
This evening will give residents a chance to gain further insight on how the program works, learn more about responsible pet ownership and cat colony management, explore volunteer opportunities, preview upcoming winter fundraising efforts, learn about cat deterrent tips for your yard, and give an open floor to ask questions to committee members and the Shaunavon Animal Clinic about the program.
Don’t miss a purr, be sure to follow the new Shaunavon Pawsitive Cattitude Facebook page to catch inspiring success stories, volunteer callouts, upcoming fundraisers, and our regular 'Feline Fun Facts'!
Town Council and the committee know that humane cat population management is a long game that doesn't happen overnight, but both our early local progress and the research prove that this model works. With continued patience, collaboration, and community support, we are building a healthier, quieter, and more sustainable town for our cat population and for our residents!
For more information or questions, we invite you to our forum on November 18th. If you’d like more information about the info night, you may reach out to CAO Larson at (306) 297-2605 or chief.admin@shaunavon.com .