Thanks for the comprehensive website link, Spencer . . . here is a tidbit from it that others may be interested in knowing . . . it is particularly helpful to me, especially since trying to trap Debra's Mom: [/FONT]

17. Q: I've been trying to trap a particular cat, but the cat refuses to go into the trap. What should I do?

A: If after repeated attempts a cat will not go into a trap, take a break for a week or two (except in the case of an injured cat). A short break can reduce a cat's fear of the trap. During this time, feed that cat and others in unset traps for several days. Place the food first by the entrance of the trap, then inside, then over a period of days gradually move it closer to the back. Feed in the same place and time as always. The cat will see other cats eating inside the traps and will likely try it, too.

When you are ready to trap again, withhold food for 24 hours up to three days (for a very "trap savvy" cat). Never withhold water. You can make a trap more enticing by dabbing bits of jarred baby food (not containing onions), or catnip on the outside of the trap. Also, cats love the smell of a pungent herb called valerian. Make a strong smelling broth by boiling valerian in water, then douse the trap with it.

If you are still unable to trap a cat or if the cat has learned how to steal bait without springing the trap, consider using a drop-trap instead. Instructions for building a drop trap can be found in the Factsheet section of the ACA website, entitled Drop Trap Instructions. This material includes a materials list, step-by-step instructions, and illustrations of how to build and use a drop-trap to catch the obstinate feral cat.