Save Your Cat from ''High-rise Syndrome''

PetSmart - Margaret Dinchak / PetSmart
April 24, 2009

Cats love heights. They can scale a tree in an instant, correct themselves from a fall by catching their claws on the bark and feel very much at ease napping seven stories above ground perched on a four-inch ledge. But these same skills which allowed your cat's ancestors to thrive in the wild can be a safety risk in a modern, urban home environment.

Every day many cats sustain serious injuries, and even death, from falling out of unscreened windows or open balconies. They don’t intentionally jump, but lose their balance when they are distracted by an interesting object, fall into a deep sleep or become startled by a loud noise. 

Many Pet Parents open their windows without realizing that they are potentially putting their cat’s safety at risk. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has sent out a nationwide alert that unscreened windows pose a real danger to cats that may fall out of them. This occurs so often that the veterinary profession has coined the phenomenon “High-rise Syndrome.” The veterinarians at the ASPCA’s Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital report approximately three to five cases a week during the warmer months. An unfortunate fact of High-rise Syndrome is that it is entirely preventable.

You can keep your cat safe from falls by taking the following precautions:

Check all windows and screens to make sure they are sturdy and secure.

Cats can easily tear or push weak screens out from their frame. Try installing claw-proof screens (available at most home improvement stores) in your windows. If you have adjustable screens, make sure they are tightly wedged into window frames. Childproof window guards do not provide adequate protection for your cat, as they can easily slip through them. And, for safety’s sake, make sure that your window shade’s pull-cord is not a loop. Cut it so there are two strings so your cat won’t inadvertently get it caught around his neck.

Open windows just an inch.

If the expense of claw-proof screening is not an option, consider opening the windows just far enough to allow the fresh air in while keeping your cat safely inside. If in doubt, place pieces of wood in the window runner to prevent your cat from nudging it open. Or, use an air conditioner instead of taking a chance on flimsy screens or determined cats.

Unscreened balconies and upstairs porches should be off-limits to your cat.

Never leave your cat unattended on unscreened, open balconies. If you’d like to provide your cat with outdoor stimulation, consider installing a full-screen enclosure in the backyard.

Don’t allow your cat to roam outdoors while unattended.

The outdoors is a dangerous place for domesticated cats. By keeping your cat within the safety of your home, you’re not only protecting them from cars, disease and other dangers, you’re also protecting the local wildlife.

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