My Cat’s Stuck in a Tree ... Now What?
Fluffy's up a tree and she won't come down? Don't panic and don't call the fire department — instead consider these tips from veteran cat-retrievers.
If your cat ventured into a tree – or worse, up an electrical pole – you may be tempted to climb up after them. But unless you’re a professional climber with the right equipment, it can be dangerous, and even illegal in the case of an electrical pole.
Here are some tips, courtesy of Cat in a Tree Rescue founder Dan Kraus, on how to handle the situation.
1. Consider the cat’s point of view
A cat’s curved claws are ideal for climbing up, but not so much for going down. A cat can be so afraid of falling that it won’t try to get down on its own.
2. Wait for a while
A cat is unlikely to fall from a tree. Sometimes it makes its way down on its own, especially at night when things have calmed down. “In my experience, cats are very tough and hardy animals,” Kraus says. “If yours has to spend the night in a tree, it should be fine.”
3. Call a professional
The directory at catinatreerescue.com lists hundreds of professionals nationwide who help retrieve cats from trees. If none work in your area, try calling a local animal shelter or veterinarian, or try a local tree service company.
Looking for a cat rescuer? Read this.
4. Call the utility company
Electrical poles present their own set of risks. If your cat makes its way up a pole, anyone climbing the pole needs specific permission from the utility company.
