El "Parachute cat syndrome" or "flying cat syndrome" refers to one of the most frequent accidents suffered by domestic cats. Taking advantage of our carelessness and being faithful to that curious character that characterizes them, there are many who annually rush into the void from windows or terraces.
These falls that mainly affect the head, the posterior region, the abdomen and the thorax, can be avoided. How? Adopting measures that prevent cats from leaning out of the windows or climbing on the railing of the terrace and encouraging other types of games to satisfy their instincts.
Parachute cat syndrome
"Cats always land on their feet" is something you've probably heard. It is a saying that is supported by the instinctual capacity of the cat to fall on his four legs whatever his position before rushing. This is so because the weight of your body is distributed symmetrically and harmonically in such a way that the center of gravity coincides with the geometric center of your body. A feature that allows you to restore your position during the fall process if it is long enough.
However, they do not always succeed in restoring that position. As a consequence, cats can be victims of serious injuries that mainly affect the head, the posterior region, the abdomen and the thorax, which take them to the vet.
How to avoid falls
Cats are agile and have a great sense of balance. But they are also curious and have a great hunting instinct. An unexpected noise or gust of air, a bird that they want to hunt ... can become an unbalancing factor and cause them to rush from the window or railing from the terrace.
Hence, it is important to limit access to these places. How? By closing the windows and balconies to prevent him from standing on them? It is a way to prevent parachute cat syndrome, without a doubt! However, it is more comfortable install mosquito nets or nets that allow us to ventilate and them to enjoy fresh air without danger!
In the market you can find different products, so it will not be difficult for you to find one that fits both your needs and your budget. With a frame and a mesh or lattice you can build a safety net for your cats yourself. You will also find numerous companies that they manufacture to measure and they install them.
In addition to securing windows and terraces, we will have to provide our cat items that arouse your curiosity inside our home. Elements with which to entertain them and occupy their time: interactive games, furniture with platforms, search for food ...
Do you have a cat companion at home? Did you know about the parachute cat syndrome?