However, it is not always possible or practical to put pets in a locked room of their own during your party, especially in smaller living spaces. You can still create a "safe zone" where pets can escape guests in a corner, open closet or even under a table.

Baby gates are particularly useful for this. Simply place the baby gate in a closet doorway or hallway which you intend as the pet's safe zone leaving a space under it big enough for the pet to easy get under. Apply a "Do Not Disturb" or "Pets Only" sign to the baby gate and reasonable guests should respect the boundary you have created.

You can also create a barrier by tacking up a blanket or sheet or draping one over one or more chairs to block the safe zone from the common area of your home. This will provide your pet with a safe, cave-like hiding spot.

Provide your pets with food, water, toys, and bedding in their safe zone. If the litter box requires kitty to cross an area expected to be busy, give her a temporary litter pan in her safe zone.

If you use a closet to create a safe zone, do not close the door to the closet, always use a "door" such as a baby gate or curtain which allows for air flow in such enclosed spaces.