Cats (Felis catus) – are carnivorous mammals with a high ability to hunt rodents, appreciated as pets, domesticated and loved by humans. They do not cause damage, but sometimes – especially the homeless cats, can cause problems or become dangerous when they feel threatened.

How to identify theirs presence

Before choosing an appropriate method for cat removal, it is recommended to identify the areas that they usually frequent in the garden, as well as the type of damage they cause. Among the damages that cats can produce are:

• Using the garden as a litter box;
• Digging of soil around plants and seedlings;
• Destroying the lawn by urinating on it;
• Scratching the bark of trees;
• Bird hunting.

In general, cats are attracted to certain properties because they provide them with food and can have a warm, dry place to shelter. Thus, before anything, it is recommended remove all food sources for cats who might show less interest in the area.

Among the methods that can be used, we mention:

• Avoid feeding cats or other wild animals on the property;
• Collect garbage and store it in sealed containers, as food waste from garbage is one of the main sources of food for abandoned cats;
• Prevent cats from accessing dry and covered places, such as verandas, warehouses, garages, etc.
• Remove food scraps or leftovers from feeding pets. 

Before taking any measures against cats and in order to find an optimal method for cat removal from your property, it is mandatory to identify the type of cats: abandoned cats or cats belonging to the neighbours.

Therefore, observe the habits of the cats and the areas where they caused damage, as well as if they are stray or owned cats. Choose the appropriate method (traps, repellents), depending on the situation.

When to use traps

Before capturing an abandoned cat, it is important to make a plan and determine how to take care of it. After trapping the cat – if you need to take care of the cat for a few days – make sure to choose a comfortable trap which will allow you to feed the cat and clean the dirt, without it escaping. 

Main features of such a trap: 

• Curved inner edges to prevent accidental injury;
• An auxiliary hinged door that is easy to open and lock from the outside;
• A separator that will prevent the cat from gaining access to the back door when it is open and will protect you from direct contact with the cat. 

Most often, traps are necessary when: 

• You have identified the owner of a cat and you want to transport it safely to them;
• You want to facilitate the transport of an abandoned cat for adoption.

For an effective catch, place the traps where you have most often noticed the presence of cats or in the areas where they are being frequently or looking for food. 

RECOMMENDED TRAPS:

They are reusable and specially designed to catch cats without injuring them. They ensure fast, safe catches, targeting the specific size of the animals, and then releasing them safely.

Use baits inside the trap. Cats are attracted to foods with a strong odor, rich in protein and fat, such as fish in oil, wet cat food, cooked chicken, fresh fish, etc. In addition to choosing a suitable bait, make sure you position the trap well enough for an efficient capture. 

Another method for cat removal is to use repellents. Repellents are substances that have in their composition unpleasant odors (for cats), acting mainly on their sense of smell. It is applied according to the specifications of each one, in the area to be protected. Repeat applications, if necessary. 

The correct placement of the bait ensures:

• Safe trapment of cats in the trap – both body and tail;
• Rapid triggering of the trap when the animal enters;
• It will be placed according to the type of trap (1 entrance or 2 entrances).

Single-entry trap: place the bait towards its end, just behind the trigger, as far away from its walls as possible, to prevent cats from reaching it from the outside.

Two-entry traps: place the bait in the middle of it, to facilitate triggering.

Location of the trap

Place the trap on a straight, flat surface, in a place with enough shade and visibility where you are able to constantly monitor it. The manufacturer’s recommendations must be followed exactly, depending on the chosen product. Traps are NOT placed when there are extreme weather conditions, such as frost, heat, wind, rain or snow. Thus, when you want to catch the cat, carefully place the trap in the open position. Always follow the instructions specific to the chosen trap.

Trap monitoring

Monitor the trap closely and periodically so that the cat can be sheltered as soon as it is caught. If they are neglected inside the trap, they can become hungry, thirsty and susceptible to the attack of various predators or unfavourable weather conditions. 

Catching the Cats 

Use protective gloves when handling the trap and transport the cat safely to the shelter. Also, to keep the cat calm, it is advisable to cover the trap with a blanket. Handle with great care and keep the trap stable, at the same level. Always make sure that the cat has enough food and water.

Furthermore:

• Before using a trap, make sure you understand and comply with the legal provisions governing the capture of cats using traps; 
• Always make sure to disarm the trap when you can’t monitor it;
• Before placing the trap, place a newspaper on the ground in order to protect the sensitive paws of the cats.

Using cat repellents 

To keep cats away from the property, it is recommended to use repellent products. Thus, after identifying the areas where they have caused damage and determining their habits, it is recommended to use a repellent appropriate to your requirements.

Keep in mind that cats are animals that quickly get used to a certain environment, which means that it takes longer and it requires perseverance, as well as the use of several repellent methods to prevent them from returning.

In addition to the regular application of repellents, being mindful of the surroundings is also very important. Actions such as the feeding of cats or other wild animals on the respective property will be avoided. Pay attention to eliminating rodents in the respective space and collect garbage and keep it in sealed containers, feed pets indoors, etc. 

Depending on the product, the repellents may be liquid, in the form of granules or powder. They will be applied/used in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. 

RECOMMENDED REPELLENTS FOR CATS:

According to the situation, when opting for the removal of cats choose the optimal methods (traps, repellents), without harming the cats or causing them any harm.