The Right Way to Catch a Cat: A Surefire Guide to Trapping Feral Cats

Catching a feral cat can be a necessity for its own well-being – for example, to provide medical care or neutering – or to relocate it to a safer environment. However, approaching a skittish and potentially defensive wild cat requires a blend of patience, strategy, and a healthy dose of caution. This guide provides proven methods and expands on the basics to help you successfully and safely trap a feral cat. Remember, your safety and the cat’s well-being are paramount.

Building Trust: The Foundation of Any Successful Capture

Before any physical attempt to catch a cat, establishing a degree of trust is key. This is particularly true with feral cats, who are naturally wary of humans. Patience is your greatest ally.

The Initial Approach: Begin by observing the cat’s behavior patterns. Where does it frequent? When is it most active? This information will help you plan your approach. Start by simply being present in the cat’s environment without directly engaging. Speak softly, and avoid sudden movements.

The Food Offering: Food is a powerful motivator. Start by leaving food out regularly at a set time and location. Use high-value treats like wet cat food, tuna, or cooked chicken. As the cat becomes accustomed to your presence, gradually move the food closer to you.

The Gentle Touch (If Possible): If the cat starts to approach you willingly, attempt a brief, gentle touch. Aim for the top of the head or back of the neck. If the cat recoils, back off and try again later. Don’t force physical interaction; the goal is to associate your presence with positive experiences.

Scent Soaking: Place a towel or blanket that you’ve worn near the feeding area. This allows the cat to become familiar with your scent, making it less threatening.

The Physical Capture: Techniques and Tools

Once you’ve built some level of trust, you can move on to the physical capture. Several methods are available, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

1. The Neck Scruff and Support Technique

This method is based on how mother cats carry their kittens. However, it’s crucial to do it correctly to avoid injury to the cat.

Timing is Everything: Choose a moment when the cat is relaxed and focused on something else, such as eating.

The Grab: Approach from behind if possible. Reach down quickly and firmly grasp the loose skin on the back of the cat’s neck (the scruff). This should temporarily immobilize the cat.

Support the Body: Immediately after grabbing the scruff, use your other hand to support the cat’s hindquarters. This prevents the cat from struggling and potentially injuring itself. Never let the cat dangle unsupported by its scruff.

Maintain a Firm Grip: Hold the cat firmly but gently. Avoid squeezing too tightly, which can cause pain.

Moving the Cat: Once you have a secure hold, carefully move the cat to a carrier or crate.

Important Note: This method is best suited for smaller cats or kittens. It may not be effective on larger, stronger feral cats. Additionally, some cats may react violently to being scruffed, so proceed with caution.

2. The Towel Wrap Method

This method provides both restraint and protection for both you and the cat.

Preparation: Have a thick towel or blanket readily available. A heavy-duty towel is recommended to prevent bites and scratches.

The Approach: Approach the cat calmly and slowly. Speak in a soothing voice.

The Toss: Quickly and smoothly throw the towel over the cat, completely covering it.

The Wrap: Use your hands to gently but firmly wrap the towel around the cat, securing its limbs and head. Be careful not to constrict the cat’s breathing.

The Transfer: Lift the wrapped cat and carefully place it in a carrier or crate.

Advantages: This method minimizes direct contact and reduces the risk of injury to both you and the cat.

Disadvantages: It may be difficult to execute if the cat is highly agitated.

3. The Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR) Trap

This is often considered the most humane and effective method for capturing feral cats, especially for Trap-Neuter-Release programs. These programs aim to humanely control feral cat populations by trapping, sterilizing, and returning them to their colonies.

Acquiring a Trap: Humane traps can be rented or borrowed from local animal shelters, rescue organizations, or TNR programs.

Trap Preparation: Cover the bottom of the trap with newspaper or a towel to provide a comfortable surface.

Baiting the Trap: Place a strong-smelling food, such as tuna in oil, sardines, or wet cat food, at the back of the trap.

Setting the Trap: Position the trap in an area where the cat frequents. You can also sprinkle catnip around the entrance to entice the cat. Make sure the trap is stable and on a level surface.

Checking the Trap: Check the trap regularly, especially during hot or cold weather. Once a cat is trapped, cover the trap with a towel or blanket to reduce stress.

Transporting the Cat: Carefully transport the trapped cat to a veterinarian or animal shelter for neutering or medical care.

Releasing the Cat (If TNR): After recovery, release the cat back into its original territory.

4. Leveraging Sound and Scent

This relies on the cat’s natural instincts and curiosity.

Audio Lure: Recording and playing cat sounds, especially sounds of kittens meowing or cats fighting, can draw feral cats in. This works by playing on their territorial instincts or maternal instincts.

Scent Lure: Besides food, scents like catnip are highly attractive to cats. Sprinkling catnip around a trap or carrier entrance can lure the cat inside. Another option is to rub a cloth on another cat, and then rub it on the inside of the trap. Cats are naturally curious about new scents and will likely investigate.

Combination: The combination of these tactics has often yielded higher success rates.

Important Considerations: Safety First

Wear Protective Gear: Always wear thick gloves and long sleeves to protect yourself from bites and scratches. Eye protection is also recommended.

Handle with Care: Even with protective gear, handle the cat gently and avoid squeezing or causing unnecessary stress.

Vaccination Status: If you are scratched or bitten, wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately. Inform your doctor that you were bitten by a feral cat, as they may recommend a rabies vaccination.

Stress Reduction: Minimize stress for the cat by covering the carrier with a blanket and keeping it in a quiet, dark place.

Avoid Direct Eye Contact: Direct eye contact can be perceived as a threat by feral cats. Avoid staring directly at the cat.

Respect Their Space: Feral cats are wild animals and should be treated with respect. Avoid chasing or cornering them, as this can increase their fear and aggression.

Professional Help: If you are unable to capture the cat yourself, consider contacting a local animal shelter, rescue organization, or wildlife control service.

Legal Considerations: Check your local ordinances regarding trapping and relocating feral cats. Some areas may have specific regulations or require permits.

Conclusion: A Responsible Approach

Catching a feral cat requires patience, careful planning, and a commitment to the cat’s well-being. By following these guidelines and prioritizing safety, you can successfully trap a feral cat and provide it with the care it needs, whether it’s medical attention, sterilization, or a chance at a better life. Remember to always act humanely and responsibly. The well-being of both the cat and yourself should be your top priority.