Humanely Catching Feral Cats: A Comprehensive Guide

Feral cats are domesticated animals that struggle to survive on their own. They are often fearful of humans and are at risk of starvation, disease, attacks by other animals, and fatal injuries from cars. Trapping is considered the kindest solution to managing feral cat populations. This involves luring cats into a trap, then transporting them to a veterinarian or animal shelter for spaying or neutering. Various types of traps are available, such as box traps and drop traps, and techniques can be employed to effectively trap even the wiliest of cats.

Trapping techniques

Trapping a feral cat can be challenging, especially if the cat is trap-shy or trap-savvy. Here are some techniques to increase your chances of success:

Get Cats Used to the Trap

One effective strategy is to get the cats accustomed to eating out of the unset trap. Place the trap in the same location where you normally feed the cats, and feed them at the same time as always. Start by placing the food by the entrance of the trap, and gradually move it further inside over several days. This approach helps reduce the cat's fear of the trap as they see other cats comfortably eating from it. Just be sure to monitor the traps to ensure they are not stolen or accidentally triggered. After a week or so, you can try setting the trap again, but remember to withhold food for 24 hours beforehand.

Choose the Right Trap

Feral cats are often hesitant to enter a standard box trap, so consider using a larger trap with a taller opening and wider sides. Another option is a drop trap, which cats are more willing to walk under than entering a confined space. You can also try a trap with a transparent rear door, which creates the illusion of a back exit, making it less intimidating for the cat.

Camouflage the Trap

Cats are more likely to approach a trap that blends into its surroundings. If you're in a grassy or wooded area, drape the trap with burlap and decorate it with leaves, sticks, and other natural materials. Place it near a bush or under a tree to make it seem like part of the environment. In an urban setting, put the trap inside a cardboard box and sprinkle debris on it, or lean it against a wall or fence.

Use Enticing Bait

Make sure to use smelly treats as bait, such as tuna in oil, sardines, mackerel, canned cat food, or cooked chicken. You can also try catnip, baby food (without onions), or valerian root broth to attract the cats. Remember to place the bait at the back of the trap, so the cat has to step on the trigger plate to reach it.

Distraction Techniques

Sometimes, a little distraction can help coax the cat onto the trigger plate. Try using a laser pointer to emulate the movement of an insect, or hang a piece of chicken from a string above the plate, enticing the cat to step on the trigger.

Trap Placement

Place the traps in quiet, secluded areas where the cats feel safer. Stagger multiple traps and face them in different directions. Also, consider the cat's natural paths and favourite spots when choosing trap locations.

Safety Considerations

Always use humane box traps specifically designed for cats, and never use nets, darts, or tranquilizer guns, as these can be dangerous and stressful for the cats. Do not attempt to pick up the cats or catch them with your hands, as this can be harmful to both you and the cat. Remember to monitor the traps closely to prevent any injuries or escape attempts.

Preparing the trap

Before you set out to trap a feral cat, there are several things you should do to prepare the trap. Here are some detailed instructions to help you through the process:

Firstly, get the cats accustomed to being fed at a specific location and time of day. Early morning or dusk are ideal for trapping, but cats will eventually learn to arrive at whatever mealtime you set for them. Consistency is key. Plan to set the traps and catch the cats on the day before your clinic appointment. It is important to note that you should not set the traps and practice trapping the cats days before your scheduled appointment, as it becomes much harder to trap cats a second time.

Next, you should prepare the area where you will hold the cats before and after the clinic. Choose a sheltered, warm, and protected area, such as a garage, laundry room, or bathroom. Cover the floor with plastic sheeting or a tarp, and then lay down newspapers to absorb any mess. Prepare your vehicle in the same way, using a tarp and newspaper. Ensure that you do not trap in the rain or heat of the day without adequate protection for the traps, and only trap when you can be present.

Before setting the traps, it is crucial to feed the cats in them. This process should ideally be done for at least three days prior to trapping. Place the traps in the area where you normally feed the cats, and make sure to remove the back door if using a one-door trap. Securely wire or zip-tie the door into the open position. Feed the cats at a time when you can monitor the traps, and place the food at the far end of the traps so that the cats have to go all the way inside. Ensure that the cats cannot access the food from outside the traps, and do not put food anywhere other than inside during this process. Use the cats' regular food, and pick up any leftovers after each meal. Do not leave food in the traps all day or night, as this will attract other animals.

Line each trap with newspaper. Three sheets of newspaper, folded in thirds, make a perfect trap liner. This helps to keep the cats from walking on the wire and will absorb any mess they make. Each trap should also be covered with a sheet or fabric large enough to completely cover it. Keep the traps covered at all times.

On the day of trapping, set the traps just before the cats' normal feeding time. If trapping in a public area, place the traps discreetly to avoid attracting attention. Replace the back doors that you had kept off during the baiting process and latch them securely. To do this, place the hasp (the oblong metal piece at the bottom of the trap door opening) over the piece of metal the latch goes through. Then, put the latch through the metal piece and ensure it is closed.

Bait the traps with the cats' food at the far end, away from the trap door, and use only enough food for a small meal. Be sure that the food is behind the trip plate and not on it. To set the traps, open the trap door by pushing the top in and pulling the bottom upward. There is a small hook attached to one side of the trap top, which hooks onto a tiny metal cylinder on the right side of the door. This holds the door in an open position and raises the trip plate. When a cat steps on the plate, the hook will release, and the door will close.

Cover the traps with sheets, leaving both ends uncovered, and place them in the area where the cats eat. Ensure the traps are on solid, level ground, and use a towel underneath if needed to prevent wobbling. Never leave traps unattended, as trapped animals are vulnerable and could get injured. Stay nearby, waiting quietly where you can still see the traps without being seen by the cats. Check the traps every 15 to 30 minutes; you will usually hear the trap doors closing. As soon as a cat is trapped, quickly cover the trap and remove it from the area. Always use the handle on the top of the trap, not the door handle, when carrying it.

If you are trapping multiple cats, repeat this process until all cats are trapped. Once you have captured a cat, take it to a quiet area away from other traps and check that you haven't accidentally trapped a pet, a previously neutered feral cat, or a wild animal. If so, simply release the animal.

Luring cats

Luring feral cats can be tricky, but there are several techniques you can use to increase your chances of success. Here are some detailed, step-by-step instructions for luring cats:

Get Cats Comfortable with the Trap

Before you attempt to trap a feral cat, it's important to get them used to the trap itself. Start by placing unset traps in the cat's normal feeding locations. Feed the cats from these traps for about a week, gradually moving the food further back inside the trap each day. This will help the cats associate the trap with food and reduce their fear of entering it.

Choose the Right Bait

Selecting the right bait is crucial when trying to lure feral cats. Cats are attracted to smelly foods rich in proteins and fats, such as oily fish and poultry. You can use commercial cat baits, such as Proline™ Alley Cat or WCS™ Fish Oil, or opt for natural options like canned mackerel, chicken, or even KFC fried chicken. The stronger the smell, the more likely it is to attract the cat's attention.

Positioning the Bait

The placement of the bait within the trap is also important. For a one-door trap, place the bait towards the closed end, just behind the trigger plate, to prevent it from being stolen from outside. For a two-door trap, position the bait in the center to encourage the cat to step on the trigger plate. You can also create a bait trail using tiny food scraps or the juice of your bait to lead the cat into the trap. Just make sure you don't use too much, so the cat doesn't get full before reaching the trigger.

Use Distraction Techniques

Sometimes, a little distraction can help guide cats into the trap. Try using a laser pointer to emulate the movement of an insect, or hang a piece of cooked chicken from a string above the trigger plate, enticing the cat to step on it.

Camouflage the Trap

Feral cats can be wary of traps, so it's important to disguise them. Cover the trap with natural materials like burlap, leaves, or branches to make it blend into its surroundings. Just make sure your camouflage doesn't interfere with the trap door's closing mechanism.

Change the Trap's Location

Moving the trap to a quieter, more secluded location can also increase your chances of success. Cats tend to follow specific paths, so observe their trails and set up traps along these routes. Look for places they like to sleep, such as under a particular tree or bush, and set your traps there.

Remember, trapping feral cats can take time and patience. Don't be discouraged if you don't succeed right away. By following these steps and adapting your approach based on the cats' behaviour, you'll be well on your way to becoming an expert feral cat catcher!

Handling a trapped cat

Before Trapping

Before attempting to trap a feral cat, there are several important steps to take. Firstly, obtain written permission from the owner of the property where the cats congregate. It is also crucial to use the proper equipment, specifically a humane box trap, to ensure the safety and well-being of the cats. Avoid using nets, darts, or tranquilizer guns, as these can be dangerous and stressful for the animals.

Trap Preparation

To make the trap more inviting to the cat, line the bottom with a thick piece of cloth, folded newspaper, or an old towel. Ensure that the lining does not interfere with the trap's spring mechanism or door closure. Cats may be apprehensive about unfamiliar smells, so wash any cloth or towel before reusing it.

Baiting the Trap

To entice the cat into the trap, create a trail of food scraps leading from outside the trap to the back, where you should place a large pile of food. Use smelly and tasty treats such as jarred baby food, canned mackerel, or chicken, tuna, or sardines. Drizzling some of the juice from canned cat food along the trail can also be effective. Be careful not to use too much food, as you want the cat to remain hungry enough to venture into the trap.

Trap Placement

Place the trap on firm, level ground to prevent wobbling, and orient it so the cat can keep an eye on potential dangers while entering. Set the trap in a quiet, secluded area, preferably along paths that community cats frequently use. If using multiple traps, stagger them and face them in different directions.

Trap Monitoring

Never leave a trap unattended. Always monitor the traps from a distance that does not scare the cats away. Check the traps frequently and be prepared to act quickly if a malfunction occurs.

After Trapping

Once a cat enters the trap, immediately cover it with a towel, sheet, or blanket to help calm the frightened animal. Gently carry the covered trap with both hands to your vehicle, being mindful that even small movements or noises can cause additional stress. Transport the cat in your vehicle, ensuring the trap remains covered and placed on a flat surface. Drive to a pre-decided location, such as a veterinarian or an animal shelter, where the cat can receive necessary care.

Releasing the Cat

After the cat has received veterinary attention, put it in a quiet room separated from other animals for a period to allow recovery and adjustment to its new surroundings. When releasing the cat, do not let it outside, as this can be dangerous. If the cat is truly feral, it may take months or even years of kindness for it to trust you fully.

Releasing the cat

Releasing a feral cat is a complex issue, and it's important to consider the risks and challenges involved. Here are some key points to keep in mind when releasing a feral cat:

The Dangers of Outdoor Life

Feral cats face numerous dangers when left to survive outdoors. They can fall victim to cruel people, be attacked by other animals, or suffer from exposure, starvation, or diseases such as rabies, feline AIDS, and feline leukemia. Even minor injuries can turn into deadly infections without proper veterinary care. Additionally, feral cats themselves pose a threat to wildlife, with millions of birds and small mammals falling prey to them each year.

The Impact of Feeding

While it may seem compassionate to feed feral cats, doing so can actually make the situation worse. Feeding increases their ability to reproduce, leading to more kittens born into a life of suffering and premature death. Therefore, feeding should only be done as a means to attract cats for trapping and neutering/spaying.

Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) Approach

The Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) method is widely recognised as the preferred approach to managing feral cat populations. This involves humanely trapping the cats, vaccinating and neutering/spaying them, and then returning them to their original outdoor locations. This process helps to improve their health and reduce overpopulation without subjecting them to the stress of relocation.

Relocation as a Last Resort

Relocating feral cats is generally not recommended, as they form strong bonds with their outdoor homes and colonies. Relocation can be extremely stressful and disorienting for them, and they may try to return to their original locations, putting themselves in danger. However, in certain cases, such as imminent danger due to construction or natural disasters, relocation may be necessary. Even then, it should be done with careful planning to ensure the cats' safety and well-being.

Post-Release Care

After releasing a feral cat, it's important to monitor their recovery and provide ongoing care. This includes ensuring they have access to food and water and observing their behaviour to assess their level of socialization. Socialized cats may eventually become adoptable, while truly feral cats will likely remain fearful of humans and unsuited for indoor living.

In summary, releasing a feral cat requires a thoughtful and compassionate approach. The TNR method, combined with post-release care and ongoing monitoring, offers the best chance for improving the health and well-being of these cats while minimizing the risks associated with outdoor life.

Frequently asked questions