Feral cats are not accustomed to contact with humans, so when attempting to catch one, special tactics and a cat trap must be used. A feral cat is one that was born and raised in the wild. This means that they're different from cats that may have been abandoned or cats that are lost and cannot find their way back home. Lost or abandoned cats are considered "stray cats." Strays are accustomed to contact with humans, so they will likely be afraid of you, so they won't harm you. Feral cats are wild, and some may be dangerous, so finding the best cat trap is essential.
Feral Cats and Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR)
Trap-Neuter-Return is one method of trapping feral cats in order to slow the population of feral and unwanted cats. Animal shelters and animal control centers begin the TNR process by placing a sophisticated steel cat trap in an area frequented by feral cats. A typical shelter cat trap features reinforced steel rods and an automatic locking component. Most of these traps double as a cat cage that can be used as a barrier between the cat and the caretakers while feeding and cleaning.
One of the top manufacturers of TNR traps is Tomahawk, located in Tomahawk, Wisconsin. The manufacturer, with the help of a local animal shelter, designed and produced the cat trap. The company has been producing cat traps since 1925 and it offers more than 100 sizes of traps and cages. TNR traps are humane and safe for both the human and the cat.
Covered Cat Traps for Feral Cats
There are a number covered cat traps available that are commonly used to:
- Protect cats from the sunlight
- Protect humans from injury
- Protect humans from disease and infection
- Make transport easier
A covered cat trap is useful for a feral cat that shows no signs of calming down once trapped. Some feral cats are so agitated, they will end up hurting themselves. A covered cat trap prevents the cat from seeing the humans responsible for trapping him (this will cause him to become even more agitated) and it prevents the cat from other types of stimulation caused by sudden movements, debris, etc. Once a cat such as this is trapped, most professionals will leave it in the covered trap for a few hours. They will not remove the trap. The cover will protect the cat from the sun if he must be kept outdoors for an extended period of time.
Covered cat traps are typically made of plastic and they contain ample ventilation throughout. Rarely will you find a trap that does not offer proper ventilation so the cat can breathe. As stated earlier, most feral cat traps are 100 percent humane.
Where to Purchase Cat Traps for Feral Cats
If you are considering trapping a feral cat on your own, you should also consider purchasing the highest quality, user-friendly cat trap you can find. Trapping feral cats is dangerous, so you will need all of the help you can get. Cat traps are sold to the public at hunting stores, hardware stores and online. Purchasing your cat trap in person is highly recommended, especially if you have never trapped an animal before. A store clerk or even the manager might be able to give you a quick tutorial on using whatever trap you decide to buy, and some valuable tips to help keep you and the cat safe.
For more information about cat traps and feral cats, see:
www.vetinfo.com/feral-cat-care.html