Im no cat expert, but i do know a little about traps and trapping. Ask a trapper what traps are more proficient, cage traps, or foot hold traps, and he will say foothold every time. Yes cage traps are used in parts of the US, but thats in states that don't allow foot holds. You say they use cages because escapees are used to the mesh. I'd sat less cautious maybe, but still cautious. I dont think hunger is a major issue. Drop a pet moggie into the sticks, and he wont starve.
My pal knows the story behind the Aldrich. How it got on the STAO. Who used it, and what he captured.