In a remarkable transformation of feral cat management at USI, what began as a contentious issue has evolved into a success story of community involvement and animal welfare, the USI Campus Cats program, established in 2021, has effectively reduced the campus’s feral cat population from 25 to 12 through a systematic Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) approach.
The journey hasn’t been simple. For over two decades, the university grappled with its feral cat population, which had been present since the late 1980s. Initial attempts at management involved mass trapping and surrender to animal control – on one notable occasion, 29 cats were captured in a single night. Despite these efforts, the population persisted, and concerns grew about the fate of these animals in the shelter system.
The turning point came when student Payton Broshears, drawing from her three years of volunteer experience at the Vanderburgh Humane Society, took the initiative.
Collaborating with administrator Sarah Stevens and longtime cat advocate Laurie Robinson, Broshears established USI Campus Cats, initially funding TNR efforts from her own pocket.
“These are feral cats. They do not cuddle nor can you get close to pet them,” said Melissa Burch, current program coordinator. “They are not socialized and most are fearful of people.” Despite their wild nature, the program has achieved remarkable success, with three cats even becoming socialized enough for indoor adoption.
The organization now operates entirely on volunteer support, with no direct funding from the university.
Operating 365 days a year, the program relies on student, staff and community volunteers who maintain designated feeding stations and monitor the cat population. To protect the cats’ safety, feeding station locations are shared only with approved volunteers.
Recent challenges include abandoned pets being left on campus – in 2024, three kittens were dumped near the Health Professions building, and in December, another cat was found by Public Safety. The program worked with local rescue organizations to find homes for these animals, but Burch emphasizes this isn’t a sustainable solution.
“Important to note about feral cats, they form their communities,” Burch warns. “People who have a cat they don’t want or find a stray, will often think they can dump it in a known feral cat community. That doesn’t work. These cats form their community groups and typically will bully a new cat.”
As USI Campus Cats continues its mission, it is a testament to how dedicated volunteers and a humane approach can effectively manage feral cat populations while ensuring the animals’ welfare.
Those interested in supporting the program can contribute through an Amazon wish list for food donations or a GoFundMe account for veterinary expenses. The program maintains an active presence on social media through Facebook and Instagram (@usicampuscats), where community members can stay updated on their efforts.