It's another "Mother". You are wonderful for wanting to help this cat. Neither of the cats I have like to be picked up, including Butter, our newly adopted stray. I just made sure that the dogs were out of the way and held the door open and he finally walked in. I had made him a warm bed outside for several nights, although I don't think he ever got it in it. I at least wanted him to have the option. He still doesn't like to be picked up very much, so I don't do it. His claws are lethal. Once you get him inside, you should probably schedule a quick vet's appointment to have his shots updated and any applicable tests done. Once Butter came in, he didn't want to go out very much! I'm sure Spencer will have better insight on this subject and hopefully he can post you a message with good ideas.
Good luck and bless you!

[This message has been edited by lhg0962 (edited January 19, 2001).]