Refusing a kitten in the property

Other

Hello,

My tenant has asked me if they can have a kitten in the property.  I'm slightly torn because I want them to continue to feel like it's their home, but I have also heard some horror stories about damage that has been done by kittens/cats - it was an unfurnished property so the main risks are to carpets and woodwork.  I've never owned cats, so have no experience with them.  I'm probably swaying more towards a no though....

My main query is whether 'risk of damage to property' is reasonable enough grounds to refuse (under the Consumer Rights Act 2015) - they'll be fine with the decision anyway, but want to make sure I can give an explanation.  And I know that may be able to claim against the deposit, but what if any damage exceeds that!

I've had a browse of similar threads, but can't quite find what I'm looking for...

Thanks :-)