Oh yes, that sinking feeling when you go outside and no kitty to be seen! I know that very well - Many people advocate keeping cats indoors at all times. But my big orange tabby didn't get the memo, and instead peed in my shoe if I didn't let him outside. It only took 3 pairs of ruined shoes for me to give in.

With my hunting kitty (Daisy, Rainbow Bridge) I put a bell on her collar. I'm sure it cut down on her hunting success, but I could tell where she was hiding more often. In fact, I discovered that her favorite place to hide was up on the roof of the carport, watching me run around the yard looking for her! Still, sometimes she was just GONE, and no amount of listening or searching did any good.

I hope someone else can offer more practical ideas - meanwhile, tell your babies to stay home!

[ January 05, 2002: Message edited by: TheAntiPam ]