04/15/2026
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6 Reasons to Keep Cats in Traps for Spay / Neuter
**Feral cats should always be covered in traps. This is a tame cat and we are showing him uncovered so you can see the set-up.**
"I can't keep her in a trap! That would be cruel!"
If you haven't heard this before, you have at least thought it. Carriers do appear more comfortable. So why do we recommend keeping cats in the traps while they wait for their surgeries?
1. The risk of bites or scratches is eliminated if the cat remains in the trap.
The CDC recommends confining a cat for 10 days after a cat bite for observation. In some areas this is the law! If the cat doesn't become ill in 10 days, they are declared rabies free and safe to release. Holding a feral cat for 10 days is stressful for the cat and the person holding him.
2. It is safer for veterinarians and staff. Anesthesia can be safely administered without handling the cat.
3. Post surgery observation is easier in a trap because the staff can easily see if the cat is recovering and breathing.
4. It is easier to keep the cat clean during recovery and holding because waste products drain out the bottom of the trap.
5. Traps are more secure than carriers during transport. If you use zip ties or carabiners to secure the trap, the cat will not escape.
6. Transferring the cat is stressful for the cat and may result in them associating this fear with humans instead of the trap itself. If you plan to socialize the cat, you want to minimize fearful interactions with humans.
So how can you keep the cat safe and comfortable in a trap?
- Cover the trap and place it in a quiet area where it is protected from the elements and curious humans.
- Raise the trap an inch or so off the surface so waste can drain.
- If you have to keep the cat for a few days, zip-tie two traps together to give the cat more room to move. This makes it possible to change bedding, feed and add a litterbox. *This only works with two door traps that have a guillotine-style back door. If you have a one door trap, use a trap fork before connecting the traps.
