With summer finally here, people all over the country are opening their windows and enjoying the fresh air. However, pet parents should keep in mind that unscreened windows can pose serious dangers to their cats. Falling out of a window can result in shattered jaws, punctured lungs, broken limbs and pelvises—even death. Veterinary professionals see these injuries so often that they have a name for the tragic situation: High-Rise Syndrome. 

Cats have strong survival instincts, so they don’t deliberately “jump” from high places that would be dangerous. Instead, most high-rise syndrome victims fall accidentally from windows, terraces, and fire escapes. These falls can happen when a cat focuses intensely on something nearby, such as a bird or other animal, which can be distracting enough for them to lose their balance. Also, though cats typically enjoy perching from high places, it can be difficult for them to find a secure grip on window ledges and brick surfaces.

If cats live in one- or two-story buildings, they’re still at risk of high-rise syndrome. In fact, they may be at greater risk of injury because falling shorter distances do not give them enough time to adjust their body posture to land correctly. Even cats who adjust their posture in time often land with their feet slightly splayed, which can cause severe head and pelvis injuries.

Cats who fall from tall buildings may end up in places unfamiliar and dangerous to them, which can make them anxious and fearful.

When high-rise victims receive immediate and proper medical attention, they have a 90% survival rate. With that in mind, a fallen cat should be immediately located and taken to the nearest animal hospital or family veterinarian.

To keep your cat safe when opening your windows this summer, we suggest the following precautions:

• Install snug and sturdy screens in all your windows.
• If you have adjustable screens, make sure that they are tightly wedged into window frames.
• Do not rely on childproof window guards to protect your pets! Cats can slip through them.