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This is a simple forum to explain some terminology.
- TNR- Abbreviation for Trap Neuter Release, which is the process of trapping feral cats, fixing them (along with vaccinating and ear-tipping them for identification) and then releasing them back where they were caught. (If a cat is friendly they can usually be socialized and adopted out)
- Fixing- A term that means to spay or neuter a cat. Spaying is the act of removing the uterus and ovaries of a Queen (turning her into a Molly), and removing the testicles from a Tom, turning him into a Gib. (Other terms used are 'Castrate', 'Sesexing', or 'Sterilising')
- Queen- Intact female cat who can have kittens.
- Molly- Spayed female cat who can't have kittens.
- Tom/Tomcat- Intact male who can sire kittens.
- Gib/Neuter- Neutered male cat who can't sire kittens.
- Feral- A cat who is avoidant of humans, usually shy, and rarely hostile. (also called 'Wild')
- Stray- A cat who does not live in a home or a clinic/shelter, not always feral.
- Kitten- A technical kitten is no more than 6 months old.
- Intact- A cat that isn't spayed or neutered
These are the most common terms you'll see/use when coming across TNR, and while you can spend a sentence explaining the cat you've trapped is spayed, it's a lot easier to call him a gib.
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