Dear Sun Spots: We are in desperate need of help! Our home is being invaded by stray cats (We do not own, and have never owned a cat.) They are prowling about all day and night, urinating on the foundation, porches and our cars. The smell is disgustingly overpowering and the racket they are making every night is causing a lot of lost hours of sleep. We have no idea what is attracting them to our home but any suggestions on how to keep them from continuing to come around, and how to get rid of the horrible smell would be extremely appreciated. (A few years ago you had a suggestion printed about using vinegar, we have tried it over and over again without success.) Please help. Thank you. – No Name, No Town.

Answer: Hopefully the following will help you and your family get a good night’s sleep. The following hints were published in the April 19 and May 24, 2004, columns:

To get rid of the smell, the Web site www.pets.ca states: Don’t just use any household product. There are many products available from pet stores that can get rid of the smell completely. Doing this may help discourage the cats from returning. The best products contain enzymes that will neutralize the smell. Getting the urine and smell off the floor is easy enough, but off the carpet requires a gentle technique. Don’t scrub the carpet as you will push the urine deeper into the carpet fibers. Blot it gently, and follow the strict directions on the bottle.

A good tip is NOT to use ammonia or ammonia-based products to clean up cat urine since ammonia smells similar to cat urine, so you will be defeating the purpose.

You may also be interested in the following recipe provided by Lucille L. of Lewiston in the May 24, 2004, column:

Take two eggs, two cloves of garlic, chopped fine, two tablespoons of hot chili pepper, two tablespoons of ammonia, two cups of hot water. Mix it all up. Let the mixture sit for three to four days then paint it on the fence or wherever else you don’t want the cat. (From Jerry Baker Catalogue, P.O. Box 1001, Wixom, MI 48393, 800-888-0010, www.jerrybaker.com).

Readers also looking to control dogs, raccoons, rats, geese, deer, chipmunks, rabbits, moles and cats that may be invading their homes may also check out this Web site. Click on Critter Control on the left hand side of your screen, then click on which animals you are hoping to control. The site offers tips on “some nifty ways to make ’em tuck tail and run for friendlier territory.” Sun Spots wishes you the best of luck in your endeavors.

Dear Sun Spots: I need and am willing to pay a reasonable price for a folding, sturdy massage table. If anyone is able to assist me, my number is (207) 782-6552. Please leave a message. Thank you. – M.I.C., Auburn.

Dear Sun Spots: Regarding the veteran seeking the chipped beef recipe: We have a great recipe but no way to reach Dennis Whitmore. Chipped beef can be bought in any supermarket. Please call us for the recipe. We can be reached at (207) 795-0646. – James MacDonald, Lewiston.

Dear Sun Spots: Regarding the GI who wants a good SOS like he had in the service: Try Rolly’s Diner at 87 Mill St. in Auburn. My husband, a former GI, says he prefers SOS at Rolly’s. – L.H., Lewiston.

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