Slip sinker rig with a barrel swivel and a 2-3 ft leader is what I use (basically identical to a Carolina rig except for the hook I use). I like hot dogs, or nightcrawlers as bait
I've met a few guys who swear by lighted, slip bobbers for cats, set to keep the bait just above the bottom.
Slip bobbers for cats? Lol well in all honesty I have actually tried it but managed to get a hybrid on it.