Summary
A very important consideration when choosing a kitten space is the ability to make it safe. Kittens are naturally curious. You may need to get down on your hands and knees to evaluate the space from their point of view.
Making Sure a Kitten Space is Safe
Kitten Safety Concerns
It is very important to ensure that the kitten space is safe. Curious kittens will get into anything and everything.
- Block access to areas where kittens may hide or be out of reach. Examples include under beds or dressers, into tiny places behind toilets or closets, under or behind the washer or dryer. Some useful blocking items include cardboard or foam core cut and taped into place, pool “noodles”, or rolled-up towels. If you can’t prevent kittens from getting under a bed, consider removing the frame so they cannot get under the bed. Some kittens will tear the underside of the mattress to hide and explore.
- Prevent potential escapes. If there are HVAC vents in the floor, tape them down. Ensure all window screens are securely in place and that any side panels on window AC units are tight.
- Remove dangerous items that kittens can chew on or swallow. Examples include electrical cords (run them through plastic tubing), yarn, string, hair ties or rubber bands, paper clips, small batteries, mothballs, or buttons. Remove plants: some are toxic. Tie up window blind cords so the (older) kittens cannot reach them. If you are keeping kittens in a bathroom, keep the toilet seat cover down and the shower curtain draped over the rod.
More dangers abound if you are fostering kittens during the holiday season. For a rundown, see “Holiday Tips: Keeping Kittens Safe.”
Never underestimate the determined curiosity of a kitten!
