When I was a teen, my family saw “Arsenic and Old Lace” at a dinner theater-in-the-round in St. Louis. Maybe they’re all round, but anyway the stage was at the bottom and the tables were in rising tiers. Teddy’s usual “Charge!” up the stairs on a regular stage was enhanced by his proximity to the diners in this setting. Startling the first time, for sure, but we laughed every time. A good evening!
Forgive me if this tip was shared already – I scrolled quickly through comments. When setting the feral trap, drape a large, old towel, or small blanket, or gunny sack over the top and long sides of the trap, leaving the entrance undraped. The drape gives some protection for hands/fingers when picking up the trap handle. Perhaps the bigger value in the drape is the trapped kitten will not easily see your mom as she handles the trap and will be less likely to associate her with what will be a scary ordeal.
Best wishes for everyone involved in this adventure! Please keep us posted!
Glad you had a generator!