Nate - why I felt it was unsafe was the piece of furniture the little guy went under is very old and heavy. It's been here for a dog's age and I've never seen the bottom of it. I can't be sure there are not sharp bits of wood or whatever sticking out under there. Also once he got the mouse, if he didn't come out on his own, I'd have a tough time getting him out. So - just didn't seem like a viable option.