Falling from height syndrome: protect your cat

When summer comes, many pet owners are happy to open their windows to enjoy the weather. Unfortunately, in doing so, they are unknowingly putting their animals at risk. Unprotected windows are a real hazard for cats, who fall out of them so often that veterinarians have a name for the phenomenon: fall-out syndrome. During the warmer months, veterinarians at the ASSCP Berg Memorial Veterinary Hospital see approximately three to five such cases per week. Falls can result in broken jaws, punctured lungs, broken limbs, broken pelvises, and even death.

Fast Facts: Fall Syndrome in Cats

• Cats have excellent survival instincts and do not intentionally "jump" from heights that could be dangerous. Most cats accidentally fall out of windows, patios, and emergency fire escapes located at great heights.
• Cats have an incredible ability to focus their attention on something that interests them. A bird or animal that catches their attention can distract them enough to cause them to lose their balance and fall.
• Since cats are not very afraid of heights and like to sit high, owners often find that they can take care of themselves. Cats can claw at tree bark, but other surfaces, such as window ledges, concrete, and brick, are much harder.
• When cats fall from heights, they do not land squarely on their feet. Instead, their feet are slightly spread out to the side when they land, which can lead to severe head and pelvic injuries.
• It is a misconception that cats will not get hurt if they fall from a one or two story building. In fact, they may be at greater risk of injury if they fall from a short distance rather than a medium or long one. Short distances do not give them enough time to properly position themselves when falling.
• Remember that when cats fall from tall buildings, they may end up on sidewalks and streets that are dangerous and unfamiliar to them. Never assume that your cat will not survive a fall. Take your cat to the nearest veterinary clinic or your veterinarian immediately.
• In 90% of cases, cats that fall from a height and receive immediate medical attention survive.

Fall syndrome from heights is completely preventable

To help keep your cat safe during the summer, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals recommends the following steps:

• To fully protect animals, it is necessary to install comfortable and durable screens on all windows.
• If you have adjustable screens, make sure they are securely attached to the window frames.
• Please note that cats may slip through child-proof window screens as they do not provide adequate protection!
• Owners should also ensure that the cat is kept indoors to protect it from additional risks, such as cars, other animals, and illness. People who want their cats to go outside should create fenced areas in yards or on patios.

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