Spay & Neuter

A cat recovering with a protective collar on.

Waco residents

  • Having pets spayed/neutered and microchipped is the law in Waco, in addition to any animal entering the Animal Shelter at 2032 Circle Road.
    • A fine for non-compliance could cost you over $500 if your animal gets impounded.
  • With proof of residency you are eligible for free spay/neuter surgery and microchipping for your pet.
  • Text or call (254) 776-7303 for information or schedule an appointment directly.

  • For more free and low-cost health options and services for your pet: Animal Birth Control Clinic.

McLennan County residents

About the Law

  • Applies only to dogs and cats over four months of age.
  • Owned dogs & cats: In addition to state-mandatory rabies vaccination, owned dogs and cats must be spayed/neutered & microchipped.
  • Community cats: In addition to the state-mandatory rabies vaccination, outside cats, both owned and unowned, must be spayed or neutered. No microchip required for community cats with the Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) left ear tip, performed during spay/neuter surgery.

Exceptions to the Law

Breeder Pets & Elderly Pets

These pets, in addition to the state-mandatory rabies vaccination, must be microchipped, and must also have a veterinarian-issued Health Statement(PDF, 0B) issued at least once every two years that must include the pet's microchip number.

Each puppy or kitten in a litter must be microchipped by four months of age and have a vet-issued Health Statement prior to sale or transfer.

  • Breeder must have this information available upon request by law enforcement or animal control. It is the new owner’s responsibility to obtain these documents from their Breeder during the sale or transfer of the animal.
  • Medical Reasons: A veterinarian can exempt a non-breeding pet for medical / health reasons. This exemption must be documented on the pet's medical record. Pet owner must have this information available upon request by law enforcement or animal control.

Community Cats

  • Community Cats(outdoor or outdoor/indoor) qualify for free Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR).
    • This includes: spay/neuter surgery, rabies vaccination, and a left “ear-tip” performed by a vet during surgery.
    • Loaner TNR traps available with refundable deposit.

City of Waco Code of Ordinances relating to animals

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