Humane feral cat traps should not injure the feral cat but they still may frighten the trapped animal. Try to lessen the sound the trap makes when sprung or walked into especially if its a folding or collapsible design by sliding the trap backwards and forwards slightly on the soil, grass or shingle so that the bars are hidden and the trap is stable and does not rock or move. Wire mesh type traps are better than traps that have solid steel parts as mesh is much quieter, traps that have steel parts tend to rattle more.

Once you're happy with the cat trap placement sprinkle a trail of cat food into the entrance of the trap and a small amount of bait under the inclined wire treadle at the end of the trap.Bait using flattened out mackerel or cat food placed under the cage directly under the treadle, this will prevent the cat from taking the bait without setting off the trap

Some people recommend covering the top and sides with a towel, while leaving the front and back end open make sure the towel does not interfere with release mechanism. The cat can SEE through the trap,(Pro Gold Feral Cat Trap)it thinks it can get clear out through the tunnel and is not so wary of stepping inside. Some people think a cat would feel less wary if the trap is uncovered. If your cat is the type that enjoys playing inside a cardboard box , cover the trap. If not leave the trap uncovered.(Feral Cat Trap)

Before you start thinking about buying a feral cat trap to catch a feral cat make sure the cat is a feral. Many cats have been abandoned by their owners, and have not been altered. These cats have litters of kittens, who, if not handled by humans, become feral. Ask your neighbors if its their cat put an add in the local newspaper, local shop or lamp post's along your street Ask around first BEFORE deciding to trap, if it is someone's cat, any unjustified control may lead to your prosecution, don't come crying to Me

Domestic cats can be classed as property under the Theft and Criminal Damage Acts or equivalent legislation in Scotland and consequently it could be an offense to set traps intentionally or recklessly to kill or injure these or other domestic animals. The domestic cat and feral cat are one and the same animal - Felis catus. The family pet is classed as the personal property of its owner and any unjustified control may lead to prosecution. Although the cat's owner cannot be held liable for its actions, they could sue for damages should their cat come to any harm or go missing. If it can be shown that they have bred or are living in the wild then they may be humanely despatched. Non poisonous bait can be used in traps, but if, through being placed near an adjoining field, it attracts domestic animals which would not otherwise have been likely to have entered the land, and those animals are injured or destroyed, then the person setting the trap could be liable to pay compensation and possibly prosecuted under the Criminal Damage Act 1971.

Guide to identifying a feral cat