Even if the animal you want to trap is just a few blocks away, drive or have a friend drive you. Walking any distance with a terrified animal in a trap invites disaster. Never leave a trap unattended. Plan to do your trapping when you have enough time to spend on site. Avoid trapping in bad or extremely hot weather.
Cats are most likely to be up and about during early morning or late evening hours.
Do not set a trap and leave it, even for a few minutes. Anything could happen while you're away. Set your trap, then back off but stay within sight of it. Make sure the trap is secure on firm, flat ground and does not wobble when touched. Place a small trail of food leading to a large feeding clump at the center back of the trap.