Originally posted by moosmom
... but there's really no way I can put one of
my other cats out as "bait" for Eli.
They are terrified of being outdoors,
except for the Mooman, of course.

The catch is, Eli is terrified of people other than me.
You might still be able to try the *Bait Kat* routine...

"Box" one up and sit on the porch with him/her...
If the "Boxed Kitty" will *talk* - Eli might hear a familiar Voice and come out of hiding.
Then again - if "Boxed Kitty" is screaming at the top of it's lungs " HALP! She's gonna kill me!" - this idea might have some draw-backs...

As for being "fearful" of others;
Eli might change his outlook on *strangers* if he gets hungry enough. I'd keep as many of the Neighborhood Possie as possible on the case. Even if someone is just able to *spot* him - the report of a "sighting" will be a BIG help.

As for the Frequent Flyer in the trap ~
Any chance a neighbor could keep THAT one in their basement for a night or two? He seems to be a bit of a chow hound; and it'll be a tad difficult for Eli to hop in the trap - iffin the Door's Already Slammed Shut!

Keep Hunting!
We're all Praying for a Quick Eli Return!!