There are some days when you expect nothing more than a lazy day on the couch, and then life throws you an adventure. Today was one of those days for me. I had my day off, lounging in my All Star Animal Trapping tank top and shorts, completely relaxed. But, as fate would have it, I got a call from base camp asking if I wanted to save a man from a savage cat. The other trappers were busy, and the opportunity was on my plate.
Naturally, I said yes.
Why I Didn’t Hesitate
I briefly considered changing clothes. After all, a hostile cat is no joke. But I’ve caught many savage cats before without incident. My method is simple: I wear welding gloves and make sure the cat stays away from my body. This keeps scratches and bites to a minimum. With experience comes confidence, and I knew I could handle this situation.
The Situation
The call wasn’t about a stray causing minor trouble; it was more unusual. A man had spotted a black cat outside his apartment and thought it was his neighbor’s missing pet. Believing he was doing a kind deed, he picked the cat up and brought it inside.
What happened next was almost predictable: after a few minutes, the cat went berserk. It attacked him, leaving a serious wound, and he had to lock the animal in his bathroom to prevent further damage. He was considering going straight to the ER for stitches while he waited for me to arrive.
Then came the twist — the neighbor called. Their cat was already found, which meant the man had unknowingly taken in a random stray. Stray cats can be unpredictable, especially if they’ve never been handled by humans.
Preparing for the Capture
I arrived at the apartment and entered the bathroom where the cat was contained. It was extremely hostile, and I realized I had underestimated the situation. I said out loud that I should’ve worn pants, and the man jokingly offered me his jeans. I took him up on it and added a heavy coat for extra protection.
At this point, I was fully geared for the task. I knew this cat could jump high and potentially go for my face. This wasn’t just about trapping — it was about safety, precision, and calm under pressure.
Capturing a Savage Cat Safely
Experience had taught me that rushing or showing fear can escalate the situation. So, I embraced my inner chicken and opted for a safe, controlled method. I used a plastic tote — a simple but effective tool — turned upside down over the cat. Then, sliding the lid underneath, the cat was safely contained.
This method protects both the cat and the handler:
Step | Purpose | Tip |
Wear protective clothing | Minimize scratches and bites | Heavy coat, jeans, welding gloves |
Use a container (tote or box) | Safely contain the cat | Ensure lid slides easily |
Avoid sudden movements | Reduce cat stress | Move slowly and calmly |
Keep hands away from face | Protect vital areas | Maintain distance at all times |
Transport carefully | Prevent escape or injury | Secure lid and carry steadily |
Once contained, the cat was ready for transportto a safer location or shelter.
A true account written by Kritter Kim, Animal Trapper for All Star Animal Trapping. ©2019
Lessons Learned from the Experience
- Always be prepared, even on a day off– You never know when a call will come in.
- Protective clothing is essential– Jeans, heavy coats, and gloves make a huge difference.
- Know your tools– A simple plastic tote can be more effective than complex traps in tight spaces.
- Stay calm– Cats can sense fear; a calm handler reduces the risk of escalation.
- Verify before handling– This situation was complicated because the man assumed it was a neighbor’s cat. Always check identification if possible.
Why Some Cats Become “Savage”
Understanding cat behavior can help in managing such situations:
- Fear and stress: Stray cats are often unaccustomed to human contact.
- Territorial instincts: Being confined in a new space triggers defensive behavior.
- Past trauma: Abuse or neglect can make cats highly reactive.
Safety Tips for Handling Hostile Cats
Even if you’re experienced, it’s important to follow safety guidelines:
Tip | Reason |
Wear long sleeves and pants | Protect against scratches |
Use gloves | Keep hands safe |
Have a container ready | Reduce stress and risk |
Avoid face contact | Prevent serious injuries |
Move slowly | Avoid startling the cat |
Never attempt solo if unsure | Have backup if cat is extremely aggressive |
FAQs About Handling Savage Cats
Q1: Can any cat become savage?
A: Yes, even friendly cats can react aggressively if scared, injured, or cornered.
Q2: Are plastic totes safe for capturing cats?
A: Yes, when used carefully. Ensure the cat has no chance to escape or get hurt.
Q3: How can I prevent scratches while handling a cat?
A: Always wear gloves, long sleeves, and protective gear. Use a container for transport.
Q4: What should I do if bitten or scratched?
A: Clean the wound immediately, apply antiseptic, and monitor for infection. Seek medical attention if necessary.
Q5: Should I attempt this alone?
A: Only if you are experienced. For highly aggressive cats, have assistance or contact professionals.
How a Stray Cat Rescue Turned into a Dangerous AttackConclusion
Handling a savage cat is a blend of skill, experience, and calm decision-making. My day off turned into an intense rescue mission, but preparation, protective clothing, and using the right tools made all the difference.
Even casual encounters with stray or hostile cats can escalate quickly, so prioritize safety — for yourself and the animal. Using simple methods, like a plastic tote, and following step-by-step precautions can prevent injuries and ensure a positive outcome for everyone involved.
In the end, rescuing an animal isn’t just about catching it — it’s about understanding its behavior, respecting its boundaries, and staying safe while providing help.
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