Question:
Here's my deal: My science teacher is going to be starting our genetics unit in late december/early January, which is when Trini's next litter is going to be around 8-11 weeks old. He wants me to bring in one or two of her kittens to show the class an example of genetics(since they're polydactlys, and he was just going to show slides of people with extra fingers). Basically, the classes would get to play with the kittens throughout the day.
I'm just wondering.. is this a good idea or a bad idea? One the one hand, there's socialization, on the other, I'm worried about kittens getting sick, if any behavioral issues will be touched, etc.
So what do you all think about this idea? Good/bad/etc?
Mittens-Kittens Polydactyly Kitties!
http://www.freewebs.com/lynxcats/
The cat may very well be man's best friend, but would never stoop to admitting it.
Answer:
It is a great idea as long as you tell your science teacher that students are NOT allowed to pick up the kittens (maybe get an acrylic aquarium and put the kittens in there so the students can see, but not touch).
Married for one year. Three male cats. Three female cats.
Answer:
Yeah, I figured they'd have to be very careful and wash their hands and such.. I just worry about them being at school all day. Just one of those things, you know?
Mittens-Kittens Polydactyly Kitties!
http://www.freewebs.com/lynxcats/
The cat may very well be man's best friend, but would never stoop to admitting it.
Answer:
I think it would be a fun idea, but there are some things to consider. The kittens are not going to pick up any diseases from the students. The only thing I can think of that could be a problem regarding their safety is transporting them during the middle of winter. The carrier or box they are transported in will need to be wrapped in a blanket to keep them from getting a chill. The students will also need to be supervised and instructed on the proper way to handle them.
Another thing to consider would be liability if someone were to get bitten or scratched, or the reaction of students with allergies. I'm not sure how a school would handle something like that, so it would be wise to find out.
and Cheddar too!
Answer:
Thanks, I didn't even think about kids' allergies.. that's probably something to seriously consider! TY so much for your input.
Mittens-Kittens Polydactyly Kitties!
http://www.freewebs.com/lynxcats/
The cat may very well be man's best friend, but would never stoop to admitting it.
Answer:
Nell wrote: I think it would be a fun idea, but there are some things to consider. The kittens are not going to pick up any diseases from the students. The only thing I can think of that could be a problem regarding their safety is transporting them during the middle of winter. The carrier or box they are transported in will need to be wrapped in a blanket to keep them from getting a chill. The students will also need to be supervised and instructed on the proper way to handle them.
Another thing to consider would be liability if someone were to get bitten or scratched, or the reaction of students with allergies. I'm not sure how a school would handle something like that, so it would be wise to find out.
I agree with Nell. All these issues need to be considered. Also, how old are the students who will be handling the kittens?
I have brought my kittens in to school for visits. They get pretty worn out and a bit stressed even though they are very social kitties. Also, if the kitties will be there all day, they will need a place to eat, sleep undisturbed and use the litter box.
If you can manage it, perhaps you can have them come for just your class so that you can make sure the kitties are OK. A whole day is alot for young kitties, and some kids can be pretty rough on them.
I would worry about them getting loose in an unfamiliar place where they could get trapped in a small space, stepped on, or let out. It sounds like you would not be with them for most of the day to make sure that they are safe and not getting stressed out or mishandled.
It would be a great lesson for the kids, but there are alot of safety issues that need to be worked out first. Good luck!
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Answer:
Most of the kids are around 15 or 16, so not THAT young.. haha.. not talking elementary school! But no, I'd be with them all day if I was to do that, but it'll probably only be for one period. Which is nice!
Mittens-Kittens Polydactyly Kitties!
http://www.freewebs.com/lynxcats/
The cat may very well be man's best friend, but would never stoop to admitting it.