Cat sterilization in Calgary: free programs and organizations

Cat sterilization is a key tool in combating animal homelessness and improving animal health. Calgary has a number of programs that provide free or subsidized services to low-income residents. An overview of the main organizations and their assistance is provided below.

Free sterilization programs

1. City of Calgary No Cost Spay/Neuter Program

  • Eligibility:
  • Owner must be a low-income Calgary resident (through the Fair Entry program).
  • Cat must be registered with the city (license).
  • Animal must be in good health (pregnancy is not a barrier).
  • Services: Free spaying/neutering, microchipping.
  • Contact: Official website.

2. MEOW Foundation

SNAP (Spay Neuter Assistance Program)

  • Who is eligible: Low-income cat owners.
  • Requirements:
  • Owner must be over 18 years old.
  • Applications are reviewed within 7–10 days.
  • The procedure is performed by partner clinics (there may be a waiting list).
  • Cost: The subsidy covers part of the cost.
  • Additional: Microchipping or tattooing.
  • Contact: Online application.

TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) Program

  • Who is eligible: Stray/feral cats.
  • Services: Free sterilization, vaccination, deworming.
  • Process:
  1. The animal is caught using humane traps.
  2. The operation is performed.
  3. The animal is returned to its habitat.

3. Calgary Humane Society

  • Seasonal clinics: Free surgeries for vulnerable owners (income below the poverty line).
  • Requirements:
  • Cat age: 2 months to 6 years.
  • No signs of illness.
  • Registration: Online via the official website when clinics are announced.
  • Contact: Calgary Humane Society.

4. Canadian Animal Task Force

  • Who is it for: Residents of Alberta's indigenous communities.
  • Services: Free spaying/neutering, vaccinations, deworming.
  • Special features:
  • Mobile clinics travel to remote areas.
    • Collaboration with local leaders.
  • Contact information: CATF.

5. AARCS (Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society)

  • SNAP program: For Indigenous communities.
  • Services: Spay/neuter, vaccinations, animal transportation.
  • Eligibility: Registration through partner organizations.
  • Contact: AARCS.

  • Available sterilization options

6. Deerfoot South Spay Neuter and Wellness Clinic

  • Address: spayneutercalgary.ca
  • Services:
  • Sterilization/castration
    • Medical monitoring (blood pressure measurement, pulse oximetry, ECG)
  • Preventive medical services
  • Hours:
  • Mon-Fri: 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
  • Sat: 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
    • Sun: Closed
  • Animal drop-off/pick-up times:
  • Mon-Sat: 8:00 a.m.-9:00 a.m. (drop-off)
  • Mon-Fri: 4:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. (pick-up)
  • Sat: 3:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. (pick-up)
  • Contact details: +1 (587) 470-1122

Features:

  • Modern equipment for safe operations
  • Accessibility for residents of southern Calgary
  • Transparent terms of service

Low-cost clinics

For those who do not qualify for free programs:

  • Calgary Pet Wellness & Spay/Neuter Clinic: From $200 for cats.
  • University of Calgary Vet Med: Student programs with discounts.

Tips for owners

  1. Prepare documents:
  • Proof of income (for programs with economic criteria).
    • Cat license (required for city programs).
  1. Get a pre-op exam: Make sure your cat is healthy.
  2. Follow post-op care instructions: Limit activity, check stitches.

**Conclusion

Spaying and neutering is a responsible step to prevent unwanted litters and improve the quality of life for animals. There are a variety of programs in Calgary that make this service accessible to everyone. Contact the organizations listed to get help or advice.

Important: Program conditions are subject to change. Always check the official websites for the latest requirements.