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
Bus trips and individual tours to the Canadian Rockies!
- 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:
- The animal is caught using humane traps.
- The operation is performed.
- The animal is returned to its habitat.
- Contact: MEOW Foundation.
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)
Your trusted real estate agent in Calgary — Anna Gogol
- 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:
Astropsychologist
- 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
- Prepare documents:
- Proof of income (for programs with economic criteria).
- Cat license (required for city programs).
- Get a pre-op exam: Make sure your cat is healthy.
- Follow post-op care instructions: Limit activity, check stitches.
**Conclusion
AM Goldsmith
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.