I don't think the cat idea works unless you don't feed the cat anything but mice. Otherwise they are lazy bastards and will play with the mice if they are not hungry. I got a cool device that has a battery and when the mice enters he steps on a electrified plate and ZAP! instant coronary, plus no icky blood. I have also had good luck with putting a shelled sunflower seed in the regular traps. If you really wedge that rascal in the bait section, works great!