Cats won’t enter a trap cage unless their hunger outweighs their wariness.
Cats who have been caught in a trap cage before are especially cautious, and may not go in again unless they become extremely hungry.
To make your cat hungry enough, start by establishing a feeding routine so they come to the same place at the same time each day. Once that routine is established, reduce the amount of food for two days before setting the trap cage to increase their hunger.
If your cat is still too wary to enter even when hungry, take your time and gently work to reduce their fear and encourage them to go into the trap.
If your cat still refuses to enter the trap cage even after becoming hungry and after you’ve taken time to reduce their wariness, try making and using a drop trap or circle trap―these have a different shape from the trip-plate trap (spring-loaded trap) that your cat is wary of.
We hope you and your cat will be safely reunited soon.
Once you know where your cat is, start placing food at that location at the same time every day to establish a feeding routine and get them to return regularly.
If possible, choose a feeding spot within your property or close to your home, so you can easily monitor and manage the Trap Cage later.
1. Use your cat’s favorite food as bait. Adding a strong-smelling item, such as grilled fish, can also help attract them. Place a generous amount so it doesn’t run out even if other cats come to eat.
2. During bug season, place the food on a raised dish inside a shallow dish of water to deter slugs and insects. You can also cover the food with mesh to prevent flies. The goal is not to feed your cat but to attract them with the smell and capture them on a trail camera, so it’s fine if the food is somewhat difficult to eat.
3. Do not scatter other food or used your cat’s litter around the feeding area.
4. Set up a trail camera facing the food so you can see which cats are coming to eat. Without a trail camera, you won’t know which cat is visiting, so be sure to use one together with the food.
Once you place the food, leave the area and use a trail camera to check whether your cat comes to eat.
If you leave the food out too long, other cats may come to eat it―so be sure to remove it once your cat has finished eating.
Note: Trail camera setup procedures may vary depending on the model, so please refer to the user manual for detailed instructions.
1. Camera Settings
- Video: 2-minute recording duration, sound on
- Motion sensor sensitivity: Medium
2. Camera Placement
Position the trail camera about 1–2 meters (3–6 feet) away from the food or Trap Cage. Make sure the cat’s full body is visible from the side so you can clearly identify their tail shape and coat pattern. Some cameras may overexpose the image at night if placed too close, making the cat appear completely white. Be sure to test the camera distance in advance to avoid overexposure at night.
3. Getting Permission
If placing the camera on someone else’s property or at a feeding spot, always obtain permission beforehand.
Label the camera with the purpose, installation period, and your contact information.
4. Theft Prevention
If setting up in a public area, place the camera somewhere less noticeable―such as tucked into a bush or behind an object.
We also recommend using a lockable cable to secure it to a post or other fixture.
5. Installation Period
Set up the camera at sunset and check the footage the following morning.
Since your Lost Cat may not appear right away, keep the camera in place for at least two nights.
If there are no sightings after two days, move the camera to a different location.
6. If there are stray or community cats in the area
In areas where stray or community cats are present, it’s highly likely that there’s a feeding spot nearby. Stray cats don’t usually stay in one place unless they have access to a steady food source, so their presence often indicates someone is providing food in the area.
Even if the person feeding the cats says, "Your cat hasn’t come here," keep in mind that they may not have noticed. Politely ask for permission to set up a trail camera for at least two days to check whether your cat has visited the spot.
Trail Camera: Cat Approaches Trap Cage
If your cat doesn’t come to eat, try changing the time or location where you place the food.
If your cat does not eat the food you place out, they may be eating at a nearby feeding spot.
In areas with stray cats or community cats, there is a high chance that feeding spots exist.
Try to locate any nearby feeding spots and set up a trail camera there.
If you confirm that your cat is eating at one of them, explain the situation to the person providing the food and kindly ask them not to leave food out.
Once your cat is coming to the same place at the same time each day, reduce the amount of food for two days to increase their hunger before setting the trap cage.
Set up the trap cage only during the time your cat usually comes to eat―this helps reduce the risk of trapping other cats.
Place a very small amount of food just in front of the trap entrance.
Place a generous amount of food toward the back of the trap cage.
Do not place any other food nearby―if your cat satisfies their hunger there, they may not risk entering the trap.
Here’s how to use a commercially available trip-plate trap (spring-loaded trap) to capture your cat.
Trap cage usage may vary depending on the manufacturer, so please refer to the instruction manual for details.
1. Establishing a Feeding Routine
- Only place the trap cage after you’ve confirmed where your cat is.
If you set it too early, it may catch other cats, making management difficult and possibly leading to neighborhood conflicts.
- Once you’ve located your lost cat, place food at that spot at the same time each day to get them used to coming.
Set up the trap cage only during the time they usually come to eat―this helps reduce the chance of catching other cats.
2. Getting Permission
- If placing the trap on property you don’t own, obtain permission from the landowner.
- If there are outdoor-access cats nearby, ask their owners to keep them inside during trapping hours.
- If there are community cats nearby, ask the caretakers to feed them away from the trap and in large enough amounts so they’re not tempted.
- Label the trap cage with the purpose, installation period, and your contact information.
3. Managing Feeding Spots
Cats won’t go into a trap unless they’re hungry.
If someone nearby is feeding cats, explain your situation and ask them to manage their feeding schedule so your cat doesn’t eat there.
4. Safety Check and Cleaning Before Use
- Make sure there are no sharp edges that could injure your cat. If there are, file them down.
- Check that the sliding gate at the back cannot be pushed upward by the cat. If it can be opened even with light pressure, secure it with cable ties.
- Confirm that stepping on the trip plate causes the door to close immediately.
If the door shuts from slight vibrations (like shaking), adjust the hook to secure it more firmly.
- If the trap smells like other cats, deodorize it thoroughly with spray or rinse with water.
5. Making the Trap Cage More Comfortable
- Cover the trap with a sheet to block the mesh and create a dark, calm space.
Using a sheet that has your cat’s scent can help them feel safer.
Place a pee pad or similar material inside to make it easier to walk on.
- Use your cat’s favorite food as bait. Strong-smelling items like grilled fish can also help.
- During bug season, place the food on a raised dish inside a shallow dish of water to deter slugs and insects.
6. Trap Placement
- Choose a quiet location where people won’t disturb the trap.
Place the trap cage parallel to, but slightly off to the side of a narrow path the cat is likely to use―this is more effective than placing it directly in the middle.
- Even if the food is tempting, cats may be wary of an unfamiliar trap.
Place it near bushes, cars, sheds, or under the deck so they can observe it calmly before approaching.
Cautious cats often watch for a while before deciding it’s safe.
- Place a small amount of food just in front of the trap entrance.
Even if the cat doesn’t enter, if the food disappears, you’ll know an animal came.
Do not place any other food nearby―if your cat satisfies their hunger there, they may not risk entering the trap.
7. Use a Trail Camera to Monitor
If your cat doesn’t get caught in the trap cage, set up a trail camera facing the trap.
This helps determine whether they are approaching but avoiding it, or not coming at all.
8. Trap Monitoring and Safety
- Depending on your cat’s personality and living environment, it’s best to set the trap from evening to early morning when it’s quiet.
- Do not use the trap during hot daytime hours in summer―there’s a serious risk of heatstroke.
- Once the trap is set, leave the area so your cat doesn’t sense your presence.
- If there are signs of human activity around the trap, the cat may avoid it.
Check whether the door is closed by shining a flashlight from a distance.
- If an animal remains trapped too long, they may be injured or exhausted.
Check from a distance every 3 hours. If the door is still open, leave quietly.
- If another animal is accidentally caught, release it immediately while avoiding injury to either party.
Take care not to be scratched on your wrists or arms, as there’s a risk of infection.
If scratched or bitten, rinse the wound thoroughly under running water and seek medical attention.
- If the trapped cat looks similar to yours, take clear photos of any distinguishing features before releasing them.
These photos may help confirm or rule out future sightings reported in response to your Lost Cat Flyers.
9. If You Catch Your Cat
- If you successfully catch your cat, do not open the trap on the spot.
Take them home, close all doors and windows, and only then release them indoors.
- If your cat appears injured or weak, keep them in the trap cage and take them to a veterinary clinic right away.
To check whether your cat is coming near the trap cage and whether any other cats are showing up, set up a trail camera facing the trap.
Note: Trail camera setup procedures may vary depending on the model, so please refer to the user manual for detailed instructions.
1. Camera Settings
- Video: 2-minute recording duration, sound on
- Motion sensor sensitivity: Medium
2. Camera Placement
Position the trail camera about 1–2 meters (3–6 feet) away from the food or Trap Cage. Make sure the cat’s full body is visible from the side so you can clearly identify their tail shape and coat pattern. Some cameras may overexpose the image at night if placed too close, making the cat appear completely white. Be sure to test the camera distance in advance to avoid overexposure at night.
3. Getting Permission
If placing the camera on someone else’s property or at a feeding spot, always obtain permission beforehand.
Label the camera with the purpose, installation period, and your contact information.
4. Theft Prevention
If setting up in a public area, place the camera somewhere less noticeable―such as tucked into a bush or behind an object.
We also recommend using a lockable cable to secure it to a post or other fixture.
5. Installation Period
Set up the camera at sunset and check the footage the following morning.
Since your Lost Cat may not appear right away, keep the camera in place for at least two nights.
If there are no sightings after two days, move the camera to a different location.
6. If there are stray or community cats in the area
In areas where stray or community cats are present, it’s highly likely that there’s a feeding spot nearby. Stray cats don’t usually stay in one place unless they have access to a steady food source, so their presence often indicates someone is providing food in the area.
Even if the person feeding the cats says, "Your cat hasn’t come here," keep in mind that they may not have noticed. Politely ask for permission to set up a trail camera for at least two days to check whether your cat has visited the spot.
Trail Camera: Cat Approaches Trap Cage
If your cat is still too wary to enter even when hungry, take your time and gently work to reduce their fear and encourage them to go into the trap.
Cats who have previously been caught in a trap cage often become wary and may not enter it again unless they are extremely hungry. In such cases, you’ll need to take your time and gradually reduce their wariness and encourage them to enter the trap cage.
Here’s how to use a commercially available trip-plate trap (spring-loaded trap) to gradually reduce your cat’s wariness and encourage them to enter.
1. Make Your Cat Hungry
Cats with strong wariness won’t enter a trap cage unless they are very hungry. Do not place any food around the trap cage.
2. Prevent the Trap Cage from Closing
- Use cable ties to keep the front door of the trap cage fixed in an open position, so it won’t close even if your cat steps on the trip plate.
- Remove the sliding door on the back side of the trap cage so your cat can walk all the way through.
3. Observe with a Trail Camera
- Place a small amount of food near the entrance of the trap cage.
- Place a generous amount of food at the back of the trap cage.
- Set up a trail camera near the trap cage to observe your cat’s behavior.
- If your cat does not eat the small amount of food placed near the entrance, they may be eating at a nearby feeding spot. In areas with stray cats or community cats, there is a high chance that feeding spots exist. Try to locate any nearby feeding spots and set up a trail camera there. If you confirm that your cat is eating at one of them, explain the situation to the person providing the food and kindly ask them not to leave food out.
- If your cat eats the food near the entrance but won’t go in to eat the food at the back, withhold food from the entrance area for two days to maintain their hunger and wait for them to enter the trap cage.
4. Reactivate the Trap Cage
- Once your cat starts eating the food placed at the back of the trap cage, return the trap to its active state. Remove the cable ties holding the front door open, and reinsert the sliding door at the back.
- If your cat stops entering the trap cage again, try switching to a different type of trap―such as a drop trap or a circular trap―which has a different shape than a commercially available trip-plate trap.
Note: Trail camera setup procedures may vary depending on the model, so please refer to the user manual for detailed instructions.
1. Camera Settings
- Video: 2-minute recording duration, sound on
- Motion sensor sensitivity: Medium
2. Camera Placement
Position the trail camera about 1–2 meters (3–6 feet) away from the food or Trap Cage. Make sure the cat’s full body is visible from the side so you can clearly identify their tail shape and coat pattern. Some cameras may overexpose the image at night if placed too close, making the cat appear completely white. Be sure to test the camera distance in advance to avoid overexposure at night.
3. Getting Permission
If placing the camera on someone else’s property or at a feeding spot, always obtain permission beforehand.
Label the camera with the purpose, installation period, and your contact information.
4. Theft Prevention
If setting up in a public area, place the camera somewhere less noticeable―such as tucked into a bush or behind an object.
We also recommend using a lockable cable to secure it to a post or other fixture.
5. Installation Period
Set up the camera at sunset and check the footage the following morning.
Since your Lost Cat may not appear right away, keep the camera in place for at least two nights.
If there are no sightings after two days, move the camera to a different location.
6. If there are stray or community cats in the area
In areas where stray or community cats are present, it’s highly likely that there’s a feeding spot nearby. Stray cats don’t usually stay in one place unless they have access to a steady food source, so their presence often indicates someone is providing food in the area.
Even if the person feeding the cats says, "Your cat hasn’t come here," keep in mind that they may not have noticed. Politely ask for permission to set up a trail camera for at least two days to check whether your cat has visited the spot.
Trail Camera: Cat Approaches Trap Cage
If your cat still refuses to enter the trap cage even after becoming hungry and after you’ve taken time to reduce their wariness, try making and using a drop trap.
Drop traps are manually operated, so you’ll need to stay nearby and be ready to activate the trap yourself. While this can be tiring, the cat is less likely to recognize it as a trap, which increases your chances of success.
If your cat keeps coming to eat at the same time and place but still refuses to enter a trip-plate trap due to caution, consider switching to a drop trap.
Drop traps are manually operated, so you’ll need to stay nearby and be ready to activate the trap yourself. While this can be tiring, the cat is less likely to recognize it as a trap, which increases your chances of success. It also reduces the risk of accidentally capturing other cats.
Although professional-grade drop traps are available for purchase, they can be difficult for the general public to obtain. Here, we’ll explain how to make one using a store-bought wire basket.
1. How to Make a Drop Trap
- Materials Needed: Wire basket, U-shaped ground peg, thin metal rod, 4 cable ties, approx. 20 meters of polyethylene rope, snap hook
- Tools for Use On-Site: Nipper, Cat Carrier
1.1 Create an Exit Opening for the Cat
- If you lift the basket after trapping a cat, they may escape through large gaps. To prevent this, create an exit opening specifically for removing the cat.
- Cut a hole in the side of the wire basket large enough for your cat to pass through. Use a file to smooth out any sharp edges to avoid injury.
- Reattach the cut-out piece with cable ties to serve as a lid you can open when needed.
1.2 Attach the Prop Rod to the Basket
- Bend both ends of the thin metal rod and attach it to the U-shaped ground peg. This rod will be used to hook the snap hook.
- Bend the tips on both sides of the U-shaped peg and attach it to the basket in a way that allows it to rotate. This peg will serve as the prop rod to support the basket.
1.3 Attach the Rope to the Prop Rod
- Tie the polyethylene rope to the snap hook.
- Hook the snap hook onto the metal rod attached to the U-shaped peg.
2. Practice Before Use
Practice pulling the rope all at once so the basket drops instantly.
Even slight movement or vibration can cause the cat to dart out from underneath. Keep practicing until you can pull the rope smoothly and decisively.
3. How to Use the Drop Trap
3.1 Set Up the Basket
Lift the basket and prop it up using the U-shaped peg as the support rod.
3.2 Place the Bait
- To lure your cat into the back of the basket, place a small amount of food in two spots: one slightly away from the basket and one just in front of the entrance.
- Place a generous portion of their favorite food at the back of the basket.
- Adding a blanket or sheet with your cat’s scent can help them feel more comfortable.
3.3 Wait in Hiding
- Hide at a distance and wait for your cat to arrive.
- Once they appear, hold the rope―still hooked onto the prop rod―taut, and wait patiently until your cat walks deep into the basket.
3.4 Pull the Rope Quickly
When your cat is fully inside and starts eating, pull the rope swiftly to drop the basket.
3.5 Press Down on the Basket
Panicked cats can be strong and may try to escape by lifting the basket. Press down on the top immediately to prevent this.
3.6 Remove the Exit Cover
- Open the Cat Carrier door and press it firmly against the exit opening.
- Use a nipper to cut the cable ties securing the lid and remove the exit cover.
3.7 Transfer Your Cat into the Carrier
- Gently move your cat from the basket into the Cat Carrier.
- If they hesitate, use a stick or similar object to gently guide them from behind.
4. If Your Cat Won’t Go Under the Drop Trap
4.1 If Your Cat Is Afraid of the Drop Trap
If your cat avoids the basket itself, try covering it with a camouflage net or other material to make it less noticeable.
4.2 If Your Cat Is Afraid of People
- If your cat is avoiding the trap due to sensing your presence, start feeding them under the basket to help them get used to it.
- Leave food, walk away, and monitor their behavior using a trail camera.
- Cautious cats won’t take the risk of entering unless they’re hungry―so do not leave food around the trap.
- Once your cat begins entering the basket to eat, stay nearby and pull the rope quickly at the right moment to capture them.
If your cat avoids both trip-plate traps and drop traps due to caution, you can modify a commercially available dog playpen to create a circle trap. Circle traps have a wide, open structure, so most cats don’t recognize them as traps and will enter without hesitation.
However, operating a circle trap is more challenging than using a drop trap. If the trap fails once, the cat may become wary and refuse to enter again. Be sure to practice in advance so you can close the door quickly and reliably.
If your cat avoids both trip-plate traps and drop traps due to caution, you can modify a commercially available dog playpen to create a circle trap. Circle traps have a wide, open structure, so most cats don’t recognize them as traps and will enter without hesitation.
However, operating a circle trap is more challenging than using a drop trap. If the trap fails once, the cat may become wary and refuse to enter again. Be sure to practice in advance so you can close the door quickly and reliably.
1. How to Make a Circle Trap
Materials Needed: Enclosed dog playpen with a roof, 2 door latches, 4 cable ties, 2 pieces of cardboard, approx. 20 meters of polyethylene rope, snap hook
1.1 Attach the Door Latches
- Insert a slightly thicker piece of cardboard between each door latch and the wire mesh of the playpen.
- Secure the latches with cable ties. When the latches are attached, the door will lock shut and cannot be opened from the inside.
1.2 Attach the Rope to the Door
- Tie the polyethylene rope to the snap hook.
- Hook the snap hook onto the door.
- Thread the rope from the inside of the circle trap to the outside.
2. Practice Before Use
Practice pulling the rope quickly to shut the door.
Even slight movement or vibration of the playpen can cause the cat to dart out. To prevent this, practice until you can close the door instantly by pulling the rope in one swift motion.
3. How to Use the Circle Trap
3.1 Open the Door
Open the playpen door. Don’t open it too wide―If it’s opened too wide, the rope may fail to close the door when pulled.
3.2 Place the Bait
- To guide the cat deep into the playpen, place small amounts of food in three locations: one slightly away from the entrance, one near the entrance, and one in the center.
- Place a generous amount of their favorite food at the very back of the playpen.
- Adding a blanket or item with your cat’s scent inside the playpen can help make them feel more comfortable.
3.3 Wait in Hiding
- Hide at a distance from the trap and quietly wait for your cat to arrive.
- When your cat appears, hold the rope taut and wait patiently until they walk deep into the playpen.
3.4 Pull the Rope Quickly
Once your cat has entered the back of the playpen and starts eating, quickly pull the rope to shut the door.
3.5 Bring Your Cat Home Inside the Trap
- Even if you successfully trap your cat, do not try to transfer them into a Cat Carrier on the spot, as they may escape.
- Bring your cat home while they are still inside the trap. Once indoors, with all doors and windows closed, carefully transfer the cat from the trap.
4. If Your Cat Won’t Enter the Circle Trap
4.1 If Your Cat Is Afraid of the Trap
If your cat is wary of the playpen, try covering it with a camouflage net or similar material to make it less noticeable.
4.2 If Your Cat Is Afraid of People
- If your cat is avoiding the trap due to sensing human presence, start feeding them inside the trap to get them accustomed.
- After placing the food, walk away and observe their behavior using a trail camera.
- Cautious cats won’t enter the trap unless they’re hungry, so do not leave any other food around the trap.
- Once the cat begins entering the trap to eat, wait nearby and pull the rope quickly at the right moment to capture them.
When you recover your lost cat, take them to a veterinary clinic as soon as possible to ensure they receive any necessary medical care.
1. If You Safely Recover Your Cat at Night
If your cat is injured or severely weakened, take them to a 24-hour emergency animal hospital for immediate treatment.
2. Even If They Seem Fine
Even if your cat appears to be in good condition, have them checked by your regular veterinarian. Ask the vet to check for dehydration, external injuries, damage to teeth or claws, fleas, ticks, parasites, and possible infections.
3. Keep Them Isolated Until Cleared
Until your cat has been fully examined, keep them in a cage or a separate room to prevent potential transmission of infectious diseases to other pets or people.
4. If They Were Bitten in a Fight
If your cat was bitten in a fight, swelling or infection may appear a few days later. Monitor them closely, and if you notice signs of swelling or pus, take them to the vet for treatment.
5. Avoid Stressful Bathing
Unless your cat is extremely dirty, avoid bathing them right away, as it may cause unnecessary stress. Let them groom themselves first. If needed, gently wipe off any dirt using a pet-safe body wipe without harsh chemicals, or a well-wrung warm damp towel.
6. If You Were Bitten or Scratched During Capture
If you were bitten or scratched while capturing your cat, you may be at risk of infection. Immediately rinse the wound thoroughly under running water. If swelling occurs, seek medical treatment right away.
7. How to Calm Your Cat at Home
Even after being safely brought home, some cats may remain unsettled.
- If you become emotional or raise your voice after bringing your cat home, it may cause them to feel anxious. As difficult as it may be, try to stay calm and gently welcome them back.
- Being outdoors can be a stressful experience for your cat, and they may still be overstimulated. If they seem agitated, keep them in a quiet room for a while to help them settle down.
- If you have other cats in the home, they may react aggressively due to unfamiliar outdoor scents on your found cat. Keep them separated for the time being.
- Most cats begin to calm down within a week. Be patient and give them time to adjust at their own pace.
Once your lost cat has safely returned home, please take the time to let everyone who provided sightings or helped with the search know, and thank them for their support.
If you posted Lost Cat Flyers with permission, attach a note that says "Found" and take them down after about 3 days. Many people in your community were likely concerned and hoping for a happy outcome.
Notify any places where you filed a lost report―such as the local police station, animal control center, public works department (road cleaning division), and veterinary clinics―that your cat has been found.
We’re so glad your cat is home safe.
Here’s to many more happy moments with your beloved cat by your side!
Even if you manage to find your cat and pick them up with your bare hands, there is a risk they may slip away and escape again on the way home.
This can happen even just 10 meters from your house.
Carrying a cat securely in your arms without them escaping is extremely difficult―even over a short distance.
Once you have caught your cat, place them in a Cat Carrier immediately to prevent another escape.
If you do not have a Cat Carrier, you can use a mesh laundry bag or a similar alternative to safely contain them.
A trail camera is a motion-activated device designed to automatically capture photos and videos of wildlife outdoors. It works both during the day and at night.
When an animal―such as a cat―comes near, the camera detects the movement and records images or video accordingly.
Trail cameras are battery-operated, waterproof, and store the captured footage on an internal memory card.
These cameras are especially useful for checking whether your missing cat is coming to eat the food you’ve left out or for monitoring activity around a Trap Cage.
Because they operate silently and without revealing any human presence, they provide continuous overnight surveillance―making them a highly effective tool in the search for a lost cat.
There are various types of trap cages, but when capturing a lost cat, a trip-plate trap (spring-loaded trap) is most suitable.
This type of trap works by placing cat food at the back to lure the cat inside. When the cat steps on the trip plate, the spring mechanism automatically triggers the door to close.
If the trap is too small, the door may not fully close even after being triggered, which can result in the cat escaping―sometimes with its tail or hind legs caught.
To reduce the risk of escape or injury, choose a trap approximately 76 cm long × 25 cm wide × 25 cm high.
