I need a diplomatic soltuion to a little problem

[LabRat]

Racoons and/or stray cats (saw both) kept ripping up our bags too. A can on wheeled cart with very tight lid worked well to keep them out. Definately talk to the neighbor first, let them know that since you have caught the animal several times now, it has become a problem that you thought needed to be brought to their attention. Check if there are ordinances/laws about animals out of their yards needing to be on leashes or something to that effect. You could suggest that if they feel the need to let their cat out, could they put it on a leash (per the ordinance). Several cats around our neighborhood are on this system. You could spin it with it would be a win win, the cat stays out of your trash, and since it's on a leash, safer because it won't get hit by a car (or stray BBs,) If this doesn't do anything, I say shoot it with a couple paintballs, it will stay out of your stuff, and you can get some practice in for the trick or treaters.