If you’ve ever seen a cat with one ear that looks slightly clipped or flattened at the tip, you may have wondered what happened.
In most cases, that small detail is actually a sign that the cat has been through a program designed to help community cats live safer lives.
It’s called a tipped ear, and it plays an important role in something known as TNR.
A subtle tipped-ear detail inspired by community cats.
What TNR Means
TNR stands for Trap, Neuter, Return.
It’s a humane program used by rescue groups and volunteers to help manage outdoor cat populations.
Cats are safely trapped, taken to a veterinarian to be spayed or neutered, and then returned to the area where they live.
This process helps:
• prevent new litters
• reduce fighting and injuries
• improve the overall health of community cats
Our Still Wild pieces feature a subtle tipped-ear detail.
Why the Ear Is Tipped
During the spay or neuter procedure, the veterinarian gently removes a small portion of the tip of the cat’s ear*. This allows rescuers to immediately recognize that the cat has already been through TNR.
It prevents the cat from being trapped and transported to the vet again unnecessarily.
The tipped ear becomes a universal symbol of care and protection.
*Ear tipping is done while the cat is under anesthesia during their spay/neuter surgery, so they don't feel any pain. It doesn't hurt afterward: The ear tip heals quickly and doesn't cause any long-term pain or discomfort for the cat.
How This Inspired the Still Wild Collection
The Still Wild pieces in the Companion collection include a subtle tipped-ear detail inspired by the TNR process.
It’s a small way to honor the resilience of community cats and the people who care for them.
A portion of proceeds from the Still Wild pieces support Kitty Bungalow, a rescue that helps outdoor cats live safer lives.
You can visit the Still Wild Collection here.