Safety First!
* Kitten's Age & Health: Are the kittens very young (under 8 weeks old)? Are they injured or weak? If so, contact animal control or a local rescue organization immediately.
* Your Safety: Be cautious around unfamiliar kittens, especially if they seem scared or aggressive.
* The Deck: Make sure the deck is stable and there's nothing that could cause the kittens to fall or injure themselves.
How to Get Them Off:
1. Entice with Food:
* Smells: Place a plate of wet food, tuna, or catnip near the edge of the deck.
* Visuals: If you have a cat carrier, place it on the deck with the door open and a bit of food inside.
2. Gentle Guidance:
* Create a Path: If possible, gently guide the kittens towards a safe exit point using a broom or a long stick.
* Gentle Hands: If a kitten is close enough, you can try gently coaxing it with your hand or a towel.
* Never Chase: Avoid chasing the kittens as this can scare them and make them harder to catch.
3. If All Else Fails:
* Contact Professionals: Call your local animal control or a wildlife rescue organization. They have experience handling kittens and can help safely remove them from the deck.
Once You've Removed the Kittens:
* Assess their Health: Look for signs of illness or injury (dirty fur, runny eyes or nose, wounds, lethargy).
* Consider Their Needs: Do they appear orphaned or abandoned?
* Contact Local Organizations: If they are young or need care, contact your local animal shelter, rescue organization, or veterinarian.
Remember: Kittens are vulnerable. Your actions can make a difference in their lives. Be patient, kind, and responsible.