About the Program
CARE Project’s Community Cat Program provides humane, effective care for unowned and free-roaming cats in the Charleston area. These cats often live in outdoor communities, cared for by compassionate residents but with little access to veterinary services. Our goal is to improve their health, reduce suffering, and create safer, more sustainable cat populations through responsible and humane practices.
What We Do
Our program focuses on Trap–Vaccinate–Alter–Release (TVAR), the most widely accepted and impactful method for managing community cat populations. Through scheduled clinics and coordinated trapping, we safely trap outdoor cats, provide essential veterinary care, and return them to their familiar environments where they can live healthier lives.
Each cat receives:
- Spay or neuter surgery
- Rabies vaccination
- Ear-tipping for identification
- Treatment for minor medical concerns when possible
- Wellness checks and documentation
This approach prevents further litters, decreases territorial behaviors, and supports a healthier, more stable outdoor colony.
Why TVAR Matters
Unowned outdoor cats are part of many Charleston neighborhoods, but without support, they reproduce quickly and often suffer from preventable illness or injury. TVAR reduces overpopulation humanely while allowing cats to remain in the only home they know – their outdoor territory. It improves community relations, supports public health, and protects the welfare of both cats and wildlife.
How We Work With the Community
CARE Project collaborates closely with residents, business owners, feeders, and community advocates to identify colonies in need. We educate caretakers on best practices, provide resources, and partner with volunteers to assist with trapping and transportation when possible. Our goal is to make humane management accessible regardless of a caregiver’s financial situation.
How You Can Help
Community support is essential to the success of this program. You can get involved by:
- Notifying us of unmanaged or at-risk cat colonies
- Volunteering to help with trapping or transportation
- Providing supplies or temporary recovery space
- Donating to support surgical and medical costs
Every contribution helps reduce suffering and keeps community cats healthier, safer, and properly cared for.
Our Commitment
CARE Project is committed to compassionate, proactive solutions for outdoor cats. We believe community cats deserve the same dignity and respect as pets living indoors, and we work to ensure they receive essential veterinary care regardless of ownership or circumstance. Our program reflects our broader mission: to support animal welfare while strengthening our community as a whole.
