I thought of that; my Dad lives in Phoenix. I could also drive to Las Vegas in 4 hours and get a cat there. The problem would be a visual inspection of the cat when I get it smogged (yes, they look). I would have to "tip" them to look the other way, but I could register my car and legally drive it again.

I think I'll try to get the darn thing off and soak in soapy water first. Maybe that will fix it.