IN THIS LESSON

Hesitant Kitty? Try Trap Training

Some cats are naturally cautious and may refuse to enter a trap—even when they’re hungry. In these cases, trap training is a gentle, highly effective method to build your cat’s trust and gradually get them comfortable with the trap.

❓ What Is Trap Training?

Trap training involves zip-tying the front door of the trap open (so it can’t close) and slowly moving the food bowl farther inside over time. This method is perfect for nervous or hesitant cats, especially those who have been previously trapped or are particularly wary of enclosed spaces.

📸 The cat pictured here is TK, who was successfully caught using this exact method at a colony where we believe he was dumped.

👣 Step-by-Step Trap Training Guide

Start Outside the Trap
☐ Place food in a bowl just outside the trap’s front door.
☐ Zip tie the front door open so it cannot close.
Move Bowl Just Inside
☐ Once you confirm the cat is eating outside the trap, move the bowl just inside the entrance.
☐ Continue monitoring with a camera or by watching from a distance.
Move Bowl One-Third Inside
☐ After a successful visit, place the bowl about 1/3 of the way inside the trap.
☐ Again, confirm your cat is entering and eating.
Place Food at the Trap Plate
☐ Gradually move the bowl to the base of the trap plate, but keep the door zip-tied open.
☐ At this stage, the cat should be walking fully into the trap.
Final Position: Rear of Trap
☐ Move the food bowl to the very back of the trap, behind the trip plate.
☐ Once the cat is confidently entering fully for food, remove the zip tie and set the trap for their next visit.

💡 Why This Works

Trap training has an extremely high success rate, especially when you're able to take your time. While it does require patience, it’s well worth the effort when dealing with shy or trap-smart cats.

If time allows, this is one of the most humane and reliable methods you can use.