Humane Feral Cat Trapping: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Feral cats, often the result of unowned or stray cats breeding, present unique challenges and require a thoughtful approach when intervention is needed. Whether you’re aiming to get a cat spayed/neutered (TNR – Trap-Neuter-Return), relocated to a safer environment, or seeking veterinary care, humane trapping is crucial. This comprehensive guide will provide you with detailed, step-by-step instructions on how to safely and effectively trap a feral cat. Remember, patience and understanding are key throughout this process.

Understanding Feral Cats

Before we dive into the trapping process, let’s clarify what a feral cat is. Feral cats are not socialized to humans. They are often fearful and avoid human contact, living in the wild or semi-wild state. They are different from stray cats, who may have once been pets and are more likely to approach people. Understanding this distinction is crucial because a feral cat will react very differently to a trap than a stray or pet cat would.

Why Trap a Feral Cat?

There are several valid reasons for trapping feral cats:

• Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR): This is the most common and widely accepted reason. TNR involves humanely trapping the cat, spaying or neutering it, vaccinating it, and then returning it to its original location. This helps control feral cat populations and improves their lives.
• Relocation: In certain situations, relocating a feral cat to a safer environment may be necessary. This might be required if their current area is no longer safe for them.
• Veterinary Care: If a cat is injured or ill, it needs to be trapped to receive the necessary medical attention.

It’s important to note that you should never trap a feral cat with the intent of harming it. Humane trapping is paramount, and working with local animal welfare organizations or TNR groups is strongly recommended.

Essential Supplies for Feral Cat Trapping

Before you start, gather all the necessary supplies. Having everything prepared will make the process smoother and reduce stress for both you and the cat:

• Humane Cat Trap: A sturdy, live animal trap specifically designed for cats is essential. These traps typically have a trip plate that triggers the door to close when a cat enters. Do not use traps that could cause harm to the cat. Look for traps with a rear door, this makes it easy to transfer and bait the trap.
• Trap Cover: A large blanket or towel to cover the trap. This helps calm the cat once trapped and also provides protection from the elements.
• Bait: Strong-smelling, canned cat food (tuna, sardines, or mackerel) works best. Avoid dry food as it may not be as enticing. Consider using scent enhancers to make the bait even more appealing to the cat. Some common scent enhancers are catnip, sardine oil, or even chicken baby food.
• Gloves: A sturdy pair of gloves to protect your hands when handling the trap. Wearing gloves also helps prevent you from transferring your scent to the trap which might deter the cat.
• Patience: This is perhaps the most crucial “supply” of all. Trapping feral cats can take time and effort.
• Water Bottle and Food Bowl: To provide basic care to the trapped cat, if the trap is placed for more than 30-60 minutes, offer the cat a small amount of water in a bowl that can be placed inside the trap and a small amount of food to calm the cat.

Detailed Steps for Humane Trapping

Now, let’s get into the step-by-step process of trapping a feral cat:

1. Preparation and Observation

• Scout the Area: Before setting the trap, observe the cats’ routine. Identify the time of day they are most active and where they typically eat or rest. This will help you place the trap strategically. Observe if the cats are part of a colony and if there are kittens, you may need to trap the mother and kittens together.
• Familiarize the Cat with the Trap (Optional but Recommended): If possible, introduce the trap to the cat before actually trying to trap it. Place the trap in the area with the door open, scattering some food around and inside. This allows the cat to become accustomed to the unfamiliar object without any fear of being trapped. Do this for a few days, replenishing food daily and moving the food further into the trap over time.
• Gather Permission (If Needed): If you are trapping on private property that isn’t yours or if you’re working with a larger colony, make sure you have permission from the property owner and/or any colony caretakers. This is especially true for areas where community cats are supported.
• Check local regulations: Make sure that the trapping process does not violate any local laws or regulations. Some areas might require a special permit.

2. Setting the Trap

• Choose the Location: Place the trap in an area where the cat frequently travels, is comfortable, and protected from the elements. If the cat travels under a structure, place the trap in the pathway the cat travels in. If a cat hides in a bush, place the trap near the bush, but not so far that the cat doesn’t discover it.
• Set the Trap: Ensure the trap is stable and on a level surface to prevent it from rocking. Engage the trigger mechanism according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Double-check to make sure it’s set properly before you walk away.
• Bait the Trap: Place the bait at the back of the trap behind the trip plate. You want the cat to have to fully step onto the plate in order to get the food, thus activating the trap mechanism. If you are using a scent enhancer, consider placing the enhancer both in front of and in the trap.
• Camouflage the Trap (Optional): While not always necessary, if the cat is particularly wary, you can partially camouflage the trap with some leaves or brush. Avoid covering the trigger mechanism or trap opening with too much debris.

3. Monitoring the Trap

• Stay Close By: Don’t leave the trap unattended for long periods. Checking back on it regularly (every 15-30 minutes) is important to ensure you don’t trap a cat and leave it for hours or days. This is critical as the trapped animal can become frightened, dehydrated, or injured.
• Be Patient: Trapping can take time. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t catch a cat right away. Wait patiently and allow the cat to feel safe approaching the trap. If you are finding that the trap is being activated and the food is being taken, you might need to weigh the trap or secure it to the ground to avoid trap tipping by an animal.
• Use a Camera: If you need to leave the trap unattended for a short period, consider using a wildlife camera to monitor the trap. This can help you know when a cat has been caught and avoid leaving the cat trapped for an extended period of time.
• Avoid Disturbing the Area: If you notice a cat is circling the trap but isn’t going in, avoid disturbing the area, you may need to adjust the amount of bait or try placing more scent enhancers to encourage the cat.

4. After the Cat is Trapped

• Approach Calmly: Once a cat is trapped, approach slowly and quietly to avoid further startling it. Speak in a calm and reassuring voice.
• Cover the Trap: Immediately cover the entire trap with your blanket or towel. This will help calm the cat, reducing its stress and anxiety. It will also keep the cat protected from the elements, keeping the cat warmer and dryer.
• Handle the Trap Carefully: Lift and move the trap gently. Do not shake or jostle it, as this can scare the cat and potentially cause injury.
• Offer Water and Food: Once you have moved the cat to a safe location, offer the cat a small amount of food and water. This can be important if you intend to keep the cat in the trap for a longer time before delivering it to a veterinarian for care.
• Keep the Cat Safe and Warm: If you are waiting to deliver the cat to a veterinarian, keep the cat in a cool, dry place where the cat can be safe and warm.
• Transport Safely: When transporting the trapped cat, ensure the trap is secure and cannot tip over. Avoid making sudden stops or turns. The ideal location is usually the passenger area of a vehicle, secured by the seatbelt to avoid shifting during transport.
• Seek Appropriate Care: Follow your TNR or veterinary plans and seek professional care for the cat as soon as possible.

5. Post-Trapping Care and Release

• For TNR: After the cat is spayed/neutered and has recovered, return it to the same location where it was trapped. This is critical, as they often have an established territory and will struggle to survive if released elsewhere. Release the cat once the effects of anesthesia have fully worn off. If the cat seems overly lethargic or still impaired, contact the vet for assistance before releasing it.
• For Other Purposes: Ensure the cat is taken to a location that aligns with your reason for trapping (relocation site or veterinary facility).
• Clean the Trap: After each use, thoroughly clean the trap with soap and water, or by using a hose if possible. This will help prevent the spread of diseases and avoid making the trap unappealing for future use. Allow the trap to fully dry before using it again.

Important Considerations and Best Practices

• Be Patient: Trapping feral cats requires patience. It may take several attempts before you are successful. Don’t give up easily, especially if you believe you are helping a cat in need.
• Avoid Trapping During Extreme Weather: Try not to trap cats during extremely hot or cold weather. This is important to prevent them from overheating or becoming hypothermic inside the trap.
• Never Trap Kittens without their Mother: If you see kittens, do not trap them without first attempting to trap their mother. The kittens are still reliant on their mother and will require her care for several weeks.
• Work with Local Experts: Seek guidance from local animal welfare organizations or TNR groups. They can provide valuable advice, support, and resources.
• Be Humane: Always prioritize the cat’s well-being. Approach the trapping process with compassion and understanding.
• Follow-up: After you have trapped, cared for, and returned the cat, ensure that the cat is thriving and has adequate food and care.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using the Wrong Type of Trap: Always use a humane trap designed for cats. Avoid any traps that could cause harm.
• Leaving the Trap Unattended for Too Long: Never leave a trap unattended for extended periods of time. This can be dangerous for the trapped animal.
• Using Inappropriate Bait: Avoid using toxic or unhealthy bait. Canned cat food is always a safe option.
• Handling the Trap Roughly: Always handle the trap gently to avoid causing injury or stress to the cat.
• Neglecting Proper Care: Always ensure that the cat is safe, warm, dry, and is offered food and water. Neglecting these items may be considered inhumane.

Conclusion

Trapping feral cats is a responsible and effective way to manage their population and provide them with necessary care. By following these step-by-step instructions and exercising patience and compassion, you can humanely trap feral cats and contribute to their well-being and the health of the community. Remember to work with local experts and prioritize the welfare of the animals at all times. Your efforts can make a significant difference in the lives of these often misunderstood animals.