Caring for community cats is one of the most impactful ways to help both felines and neighborhoods thrive. Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) ensures healthier, safer cat colonies and prevents endless cycles of litters. If you’re new to trapping cats, this step-by-step guide will set you up for success.
✨ Pro Tip: Always plan ahead and put the cats’ safety first.
📝 Before You Trap
✅ Learn the TNR process – Research local TNR programs and prepare your project in advance.
🤝 Coordinate with caretakers – If others are feeding the cats, make sure everyone is on the same page. Stop feeding 24 hours before trapping so cats are more likely to enter traps.
📅 Book spay/neuter appointments – Never trap without an appointment. Cats quickly learn to avoid traps, so you only get one good chance.
🏠 Secure a recovery space – Choose a temperature-controlled location (bathroom, garage, basement, or spare room).
🍽️ Time it right – Plan to trap around mealtime, the day before the appointment.
🪤 Trapping Day
📰 Line traps – Use newspaper, cardboard, or puppy pads, but avoid blocking the trip plate.
🐟 Use irresistible bait – Canned tuna, sardines, or wet food work best. Place food behind the trigger plate.
👀 Stay out of sight – Watch from a distance. If cats see you, they may not go inside.
🚫 Never leave traps unattended – Especially in public spaces.
🛏️ Cover trapped cats immediately – Use a towel or blanket to calm them.
🔒 Secure traps – Use zip ties and place cats in a quiet, temperature-controlled area overnight.
❤️ Post-Surgery
🛡️ Keep cats in traps – Do not attempt to transfer them during recovery.
🥣 Offer a light meal & water – But only if you can safely do so without risk of injury or escape.
😺 Be patient – Cats may not eat right away if they are stressed.
🌎 Return to Field
☀️ Release the next morning – Once the cat is awake, alert, and sitting upright.
📍 Return to original location – Relocating cats is dangerous and can put them at risk.
🚺 Trap the whole colony – One unspayed female can undo all your hard work.
🙌 Why This Matters
Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) is the most humane and effective way to reduce cat overpopulation. By helping cats in your community, you’re creating safer, healthier environments for both animals and people.
💡 Want to help more? Visit 👉 FERALCHANGE.ORG
📩 For assistance in Oakland: communitycats@oaklandanimals.org
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