Cats are known for their righting reflex, which allows them to scale heights and land safely on their feet. However, even our feline babies can experience troubles while landing from heights. High-rise syndrome refers to the set of injuries that cats experience when they fall from tall structures or buildings. It happens majorly when the curious fur balls end up chasing birds, insects, or rodents and lose their footing. The intensity of the injury mostly depends on the height from which the cats fall. If you’re a feline parent wondering how to deal with High-rise syndrome, don’t worry, as we’re here to help!
In this blog, we will shed light on the causes and symptoms of such injuries and, most importantly, how to prevent them. Let’s get started.
Causes of High-Rise Syndrome in Cats
Cats in general are curious in nature, and their instinct to explore often leads to accidental falls from heights, resulting in serious injuries. They can fall from impressive heights of over 61 metres or more; however, their survival isn’t promised. According to studies, a cat can land safely from up to 21 metres of height, but their safety can never be guaranteed.
The most common causes of such injuries are:
- Fall from unscreened windows and balconies while leaning out to observe something.
- Fall from heights while trying to chase birds, insects, and other moving objects.
- Loss of balance due to sudden loud noises like fireworks, household disturbances or car horns.
- Not being able to perceive the dangers of heights properly while jumping. This happens mostly with kittens or indoor cats who have less experience.
- Falls due to accidental slips or losing footing while walking on balcony edges, sleeping on high perches, or walking on windowsills.
Symptoms of High-Rise Syndrome
The injuries that a cat can suffer after falling from a height can range from mild to life-threatening. While some injuries can be visible, others can be internal. Let’s look at some common signs of high-rise syndrome in cats.
- Limping or difficulty moving
- Rapid breathing
- Bleeding and visible wounds
- Behavioural changes
- Increase in vocalisation
- Swelling or deformities
- Signs of shock
Prevention of High-Rise Syndrome
It is always better to try and prevent high-rise syndrome than deal with consequences at a later date. The following are some things you can do to prevent high-rise syndrome in cats:
- Securing Balconies and Windows
Securing windows and balconies is important to prevent falls. You may consider installing sturdy cat-proof screens or barriers on your windows to protect them from jumping or slipping through. When it comes to balconies, you may use cat-proof netting to help your cat enjoy the view without the risk of falling down.
- Providing Safe Alternatives
As cats love to climb, it is essential to provide them with safe alternatives to cater to their instincts. You can invest in climbing posts or cat trees so as to keep them busy and discourage them from going outdoors.
- Supervising Outdoor Areas
If your home has outdoor areas that your cat can access, always supervise them while your feline is exploring those areas. Don’t leave them alone when they’re exploring your backyards, especially when heights are involved.
- Engaging Your Cats Indoors
It is crucial to keep your curious baby engaged at all times, as boredom often leads to unsafe explorations. Therefore, you should provide your feline with plenty of mental and physical stimulation to keep them occupied. Toys, puzzle feeders and interactive toys work excellently to keep your cats busy indoors.
- Eliminating Temptations
It is important to eliminate items such as plants, curtains, or furniture near your balconies or windows that your kitty can use as launching points.
Wrapping Up
Though high-rise syndrome is a serious threat to cats, it is highly preventable. Prevention with the help of secured windows, restricting balcony access, and supervising cats in general is essential to protect your adventurous babies from dangerous falls. In case you suspect that your cat is suffering from high-rise syndrome, seek immediate medical help to ensure prompt treatment and speedy recovery.
