The term "flying cat syndrome" refers to all those episodes in which a cat falls from very high windows or balconies. Contrary to popular belief, cats don't always land on their paws. Although these animals possess a vertical reflection, the landing mode is closely related to having enough time and space to fall to be able to rotate 360 °. If the distance is greater or less than the time it takes for the cat to straighten, then it will hit the ground like any other animal and could be seriously injured or even die. A cat that is chasing a bird, insect, or following the movement of a cloud with its eyes can easily fall over the balcony railing. If you want your pet to have access to the terrace at home, then you need to make this environment safe to avoid accidents and falls.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Securing the Balcony
Step 1. Close the balcony with a plastic or metal mesh
This is not a cage, but a sort of "cat patio" that allows your furry friend to go out and browse outside in a protected space. These protections are particularly useful in the city and for people who do not have a garden available, but still want to offer the cat a safe space to be outdoors and in the fresh air.
- Close all or part of the internal perimeter of the balcony with a barrier to be fixed to the bars or supporting poles of the railing. Check carefully that there are no crevices or less robust areas for the cat to pass through.
- Metal nets are stronger and offer better protection. Some people use metal gratings, such as those sold to make shelves for a shelf, to build a sturdy barrier. You can attach these elements to the railing with cable ties.
- If you build a barrier that is not completely closed, but higher than the balcony railing, then be aware that the cat could climb. You know your pet's habits and abilities better than anyone; if it is an elderly specimen, then there are many chances that it just wanders around outside. However, if you have a young, hyperactive cat who is easily distracted, then they may run away and fall off the patio. If you have any doubts or even the slightest worries, then make sure that the barrier is completely closed.
- The fact that the balcony is closed does not mean that it is boring or unpleasant for a cat. Your feline friend likes to watch what happens, so add items that he or she likes, such as a squat cushion or poles. Remember to do this only if the balcony is completely closed.
Step 2. Build the cat patio, walkway, or enclosed space
If you are skilled enough with manual work, have some free time and some building materials (wooden planks, wire mesh or sturdy fabric and the necessary tools), then you can make your own cat patio. You can build a large box in the open air, a shelter or a long closed walkway. In other words, you can make a very simple or very elaborate structure, according to your tastes and abilities.
- If you need some templates to inspire you or instructions, you can find pictures and even blueprints online. Many DIY enthusiasts, who are also cat owners, have built patios of all sizes and posted tips, as well as photos and videos of their achievements.
- This is also an excellent opportunity to set your creativity in motion, since you can also use different colors to match the patio to your home.
- In addition, the "do-it-yourself" construction allows you to save the money of buying a prefabricated patio (as described in the next step) or the money to pay a worker to assemble it for you.
Step 3. Fit a large dog crate to your outdoor cat space
This is a quick fix that doesn't require a lot of time, money and effort. Place the cage in a place where the cat can enjoy a good view of the external environment surrounding the balcony.
- Choose the largest cage the balcony can fit.
- Remember that cats love to be high up to have a great view of what's going on. Consider placing a high perch inside the cage, so that the cat can sit down.
- Keep in mind that the animal cannot escape from the cage, so provide it with everything it needs, such as a water bowl and litter box. Make sure there is shade and good ventilation in warm weather so your cat doesn't suffer from heatstroke.
Step 4. Purchase a pre-made cat patio
There are several websites that offer this type of solution, you can do a search to find the model that best suits your pet's needs. Even the specialized magazines dedicate a few pages to classified ads in which there are patios of all sizes and models. However, remember that they are expensive structures that can go up to 2000 euros, depending on what you are looking for.
One of the cheapest options for the balcony is a self-supporting cage that can be folded back on itself and costs no more than 50 euros
Step 5. Make sure your cat has access to everything they need when on the balcony
Make sure she has fresh water and her litter box available. In addition, the cage should be in a shady place and also have a shelter where the cat can take shelter when the weather gets cold.
You can also purchase a cat-safe water fountain to mount on the balcony. This will have two functions: it will always offer the cat clean and fresh water, but at the same time it will be a decorative detail for your outdoor environment
Step 6. Check that all plants on the balcony are safe for the cat
You do not have to take the risk that the cat will eat plant material that can be dangerous for its health.
If you still want to have plants on the terrace, consider those to hang or planters that can be fixed outside the balcony railing. This way you will have all the greenery you want, while still preventing the cat from accessing it
Part 2 of 2: Preventing Falls
Step 1. Train your cat to the harness
This tool offers the animal a little more freedom, but still keeps it safe while it is on the balcony with you. It is important to remember that the cat is never too young to get used to the harness. Indeed, there are several benefits to starting when it is still a puppy; if you start training him when he is about 8 weeks old, then he will accept it as something normal. Despite this, remember that it is also possible to train an adult specimen in the harness, you just need a little more patience.
- Buy a lightweight model for cats, in nylon and with an "H" design that fastens to the neck and abdomen of the animal. Those with an "8" shape come off more easily from the cat's body and are not suitable for keeping the cat safe.
- Make sure the harness is the right size. Measure the circumference of the animal's neck and abdomen with a tape measure; the tape measure should be snug to the body, but not too tight. Purchase one that comes as close as possible to the measurements you took.
- Start by making the cat wear the harness (without a leash) leaving it very soft, praising the cat and offering him his favorite treat. Then take it off after a couple of minutes. Repeat this exercise twice a day for one or two weeks and gradually extend the time the cat wears the harness, before giving him the reward and praising him. Your goal is to make him forget that he is wearing this device and that he feels comfortable.
- How quickly your furry friend will accept the harness depends on his character and learning ability. Whether it is male or female, neutered or not, if the cat is sociable and comfortable with people, then you have a good chance of training him in the harness.
Step 2. Have him wear the harness and allow him to go to the balcony
Attach the leash to the harness once you have been trained and accepted this device.
- Make sure it fits snugly without forcing it, you need to be able to slip two fingers under it. If the harness is too loose, then the cat may wriggle out and take it off. On the other hand, if it is too tight, it could cause pain and discomfort to the animal.
- Remember that a normal harness could break if subjected to excessive traction, such as that exerted by the weight of the cat falling from the balcony. For this reason, use it to limit the range of action of your four-legged friend and prevent him from reaching the balcony railing and putting himself in danger. If your purpose is to use the harness as a means of rescue (for example to restrain the cat in the event of a fall) then you must buy a model that is certified and approved for use in the car.
Step 3. Tie the leash to a stationary object
If your intention is to offer the animal some freedom while it is on the balcony in your absence, then tie the leash to an immovable point and make sure that the cat cannot reach the balcony railing from that position.
Make sure you have tied the leash securely. Always carefully check the safety of the knot by pulling it a couple of times. If the knot is sturdy, it shouldn't come undone when you yank it
Step 4. Always monitor the cat
If you're indoors, check it out visually as it wanders on the balcony.
Warnings
- If you have used mosquito nets to close the balcony, be aware that normal ones can be scratched and torn to shreds without difficulty by cats that have not had their nails trimmed. Go to a home improvement store and get some sturdy fabric to replace the mosquito nets.
- Most cats fall when distracted by birds or clouds that pass outside the balcony.
