Car mechanic discovers kitten hiding in engine compartment

Mavis will be available for adoption within the next week.

A local car mechanic found a 9-week-old kitten this past week hiding inside the engine compartment of a car.

A Dedham animal control officer then safely brought the kitten, uncovered at Mavis Tire and Brakes, to the Animal Rescue League of Boston in Dedham, according to a statement from the organization. The kitten hadn’t been harmed while the car was in motion.

After having motor oil removed from his fur, the kitten, named Mavis after the auto store, was given a veterinary exam and placed into foster care until he is old enough to be adopted.

Although it is unknown how Mavis got into the engine compartment, the league said he was likely “spooked” by something and was “seeking a seemingly safe place to hide”

“During the winter it’s common to come across an animal in an engine compartment as outdoor cats are drawn to the warmth,” ARL wrote. “However, it is very uncommon to find an animal in this precarious position during the summer months.”

The ARL said that Mavis will be available for adoption within the next week.

“Although timid, Mavis is a sweet and friendly kitten, who is sure to be a wonderful companion animal and will now be an indoor-only cat to avoid future car adventures,” the statement said. “ARL would like to thank Dedham Animal Control and Mavis Tire and Brakes for finding and rescuing this animal who will soon begin the next chapter of his life.”