How to catch a cat on the street if it is afraid and runs away from people? - briefly
To catch an afraid street cat that runs away from people, approach slowly and calmly, speaking softly to reassure it. Use a humane trap or towel to gently cover and secure the cat, minimizing stress for both you and the animal.
How to catch a cat on the street if it is afraid and runs away from people? - in detail
Catching an afraid and skittish stray cat on the street can be challenging, but with patience, the right approach, and some preparation, you can successfully bring the cat to safety. Here are detailed steps to help you:
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Preparation: Before attempting to catch the cat, make sure you have the necessary equipment. You will need a sturdy and comfortable carrier, thick gloves, a blanket or towel, and some treats or food that the cat might be interested in.
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Find a Quiet Location: Choose a location where the cat feels safe and is less likely to run away. This could be under a car, near a wall, or in a quiet corner of the street. Avoid areas with heavy traffic or noise.
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Approach Slowly and Calmly: Cats are sensitive to body language and can sense fear or aggression. Approach the cat slowly and calmly, making sure not to make direct eye contact as this can be perceived as a threat. Keep your movements smooth and avoid sudden actions.
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Use Food to Attract: Place some food or treats near the cat but out of its immediate reach. The smell will attract the cat, and it might start eating if it feels safe enough. This gives you an opportunity to move closer without scaring the cat away.
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Create a Barrier: Once the cat starts eating, use a blanket or towel to create a barrier around the cat. This prevents the cat from running away and allows you to slowly move in for the next step. Be careful not to startle the cat during this process.
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Gently Scruff the Cat: If you are confident that the cat is comfortable, gently pick up the cat by the scruff of its neck using thick gloves. Holding a cat by the scruff is a natural way for mothers to carry their kittens and can calm the cat down. Be sure to support the cat's hindquarters with your other hand.
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Quickly Place in Carrier: Immediately place the cat into the carrier once you have a good grip on it. The carrier should be open and ready for this step. Close the carrier door gently but firmly to prevent the cat from escaping.
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Keep Calm and Quiet: After the cat is safely in the carrier, keep it calm by speaking softly and minimizing movement. Avoid making sudden noises or movements that could startle the cat.
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Provide Comfort: Once you are in a safe location, such as your home or a vet clinic, provide the cat with some water and food if available. Give the cat time to adjust to its new surroundings before attempting any further interaction.
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Seek Veterinary Care: It is important to take the cat to a veterinarian as soon as possible for a check-up. The vet can assess the cat's health, provide necessary vaccinations, and advise on further care.
By following these steps carefully and patiently, you can successfully catch an afraid stray cat and bring it to safety.