PAWS

Cats in Trees

Presented by Debbie Dawson

Some useful facts:
  • Most cats will come down on their own in 3-5 days
  • Most cats are between 6 months old and 1 1/2 years old
  • Most cats will come down in the dark (naturally nocturnal)
  • They must come down backwards, not head first
  • Declawed cats absolutely can not come down and should not be outside unattended
  • The "record cat" is 21 days in the very top of a tree
Suggestions
  • Place food (tuna or something the cat likes) as high up in the tree as you can reach with any ladder
  • Make your best efforts in talking the cat down and placing food in the tree just before going to bed
  • Do not let the cat see you in the house or on a deck, do all your coaxing from the base of the tree
  • If possible use the "elevator system" or the "ramp system"
  • Be patient! Nature is on our side--birds, wind storms, having to relieve themselves, etc.
  • Put all dogs in the house or a garage until the cat comes down, especially for the night time hours.
Questions to ask yourself:
  • Is it your cat? All tree climbers charge for their service.
  • How many days has it been stuck? Most come down in 3-5 days.
  • Is the tree in your yard? You will need permission from the property owner to climb their tree.
  • Is the cat declawed, ill or on any medication? If so, the cat should be rescued right away.
  • How old is the cat? If it is only 8 weeks to 4 months, it should probably be rescued right away. These tend to go to the very top.
  • How high in the tree is the cat? We can not go to the very top of a tree.
Miscellaneous situations

Cats on power poles. It is illegal for anyone unauthorized to climb a power or utility pole.

Cats in walls, chimneys and behind water heaters. Securely drape a blanket or sheet down to them so they can climb up on out.

Return to Cat Fact Sheets.


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