We recommend using the True-Catch gravity-driven trap as opposed to the spring-loaded variety. Spring-loaded traps can inflict severe damage, especially to kittens and to cats with prior injuries; gravity-driven traps are much safer.
Have a plan before you start. Never just start trapping without having made all necessary arrangements: housing, transport, surgery, recovery, and release. Remember, it’s the cat that has to live in that trap while we get our act together!
Be familiar with the function of the trap before you start using it. Know how to set it, how to bait it, how to spring it, how to release the skunk you catch by mistake, and how to carry it without releasing the cat.
Trap where the cats are accustomed to feeding. Make certain that the trap is sheltered, not in direct sunlight or exposed to rain or snow. A cat in an exposed trap can freeze to death or die of heat stroke and dehydration in a very short time. Tip: For successful trapping, withhold food the night before.
Put the bait directly on the floor of the trap just inside the guillotine door. Do not put anything else in the trap -- no cans of food, no dishes, no towels -- nothing. The cat will be very frightened once it is caught, and foreign objects inside the trap can inflict severe injuries.
Never leave traps unattended. A trapped cat is defenseless and will be terrified; thrashing around inside the trap can cause severe injury.
Cover the trap immediately once a cat is caught. Use a blanket or sheet to cover the entire trap. Like any wild animal, a feral cat will calm down as soon as it perceives no threat. Both you and the cat are safer if he cannot see you.
House the trapped cat in a warm, sheltered place off the ground until ready to transport. A cinder block under each corner of the trap will keep it stable and allow you to place newspapers underneath to catch feces and urine. Leave the trap covered at all times. Do not leave trapped cats outside.
Transport safely, humanely, and as soon as possible. If you must transport in the bed of a pickup, place a rug, blanket, or cardboard under the traps to provide traction and insulation. Keep the traps covered at all times; secure both the covers and the traps with ropes or bungee cords. Drive slowly and avoid the freeway. These animals are going to be terrified by this trip; try to put yourself in their place; if you wouldn’t do it to yourself, don’t do it to the cats.
Bring a plastic pet carrier appropriate for the size of the cat and a towel for post-operative recovery.
