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In many ways, trapping a large number of cats at once involves using the same techniques employed in trapping individual cats, such as the kind of bait used, not leaving traps out in the open, and so forth. So the first thing to do is review "Trapping - the Basics" on the Info Page. What follows here are steps to take that are unique to trying to catch multiple cats at the same time.
Number of traps - If possible, use many more traps than there are cats. This is important when you get down to catching the last few. It's much easier to catch a couple of cats with ten traps strategically located, than with only two. Placement of traps - Initially, spread the traps out to cover as much territory as possible. But when cats start going into the traps, put a new trap where an old one worked. For some unknown reason, you'll often find these "hot spots" where multiple cats will be caught. Place the traps in areas where the cats habitually pass or by their feeding station. Stay back - Don't rush to collect a trapped cat, unless they're getting frantic. If the trapped cat is remaining calm, leave him be until more cats are trapped. Every time you enter the territory, you're liable to scare other, untrapped cats away. But if the cat is frantic and in danger of hurting himself, quickly cover the trap with a cotton sheet, whisk him away and place a fresh trap on the spot. Don't go it alone - Have a partner with you. It's hard to keep an eye on everything if you're by yourself. Dealing with large numbers of cats could result in any number of unexpected things happening which you won't be able to adequately address if you're alone. Spay/Neuter - Working with a large number of cats requires you to be well organized. As cats are trapped, put a label on the trap with a number (and a brief description of the location, if you're trapping at multiple sites). On a separate sheet of paper, write down the trap number and a brief description of the cat. When you bring the cats in to be neutered, also have clear labels attached to the trap with any special instructions or notes, such as "adoptable - don't eartip," "limping on front paw," or the like. Caring for Cats Held in Traps - See "Caring for Cats Held in Traps" on the Info page, for how to care for the cats while they are being held before and after surgery. |
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Length
of trapping period - Plan on trapping over the course of at
least two or three days. This leaves you room for bad weather and
for catching those last few difficult-to-get felines. Typically what
happens is during the first attempt at trapping, most of the cats are
caught. But then the last few are more wary and, as the days pass,
they grow hungrier and are more likely to enter the trap. Giving yourself
more time allows not only for poor weather, but other unexpected
conditions as well.