High-rise syndrome is the term given to cats who fall from high windows or balconies. Contrary to popular belief, cats don't always land on all fours. Despite having a righting (correction) reflex, a cat's safety largely depends on whether the animal can still rotate 360 degrees when it falls. If the distance isn't enough to keep all four legs on the ground, the cat will hit the ground like any other animal and be injured or even killed. Cats can be aware of crossing the edge of the balcony as a result of chasing birds or following clouds. If you let your cat roam on the balcony, make sure it's safe to prevent unwanted accidents or injuries.
Step
Part 1 of 2: Securing the Balcony
Step 1. Secure the balcony with wire or plastic gauze
This cage is not a cage, but a “catio”, which is a cat patio that allows pets to see and sniff outside from inside a safely enclosed area. “Catio” is great for city dwellers and those who don't have a backyard but want to have a place for the cat that is fresh air and safe from exposure to the outside world.
- Enclose all sections within the perimeter of your balcony by attaching protective material to posts or railings. Check carefully to make sure there are no gaps or weak spots for the cat to get through.
- Wire has stronger durability and protection. Some cat owners use wire mesh such as those sold as cupboard shelves to make a sturdy balcony shield. Attach it to the balcony using a cable tie.
- If you're not building a fully enclosed enclosure, but simply increasing the height of the balcony railing, make sure your cat can't climb up onto it. You know the cat best. If the pet is old enough, chances are the cat will give up. However, if the cat is young and active and is easily distracted, the pet may run away and be in danger of falling. If you have any doubts or concerns, even if just a little, it's a good idea to bracket the balcony completely to make it one hundred percent safe.
- Just because your balcony is cooped up doesn't mean cats won't play there. Cats love to look around, so provide your cat with nice places to sit back, such as perches and posts. Just make sure you've sealed off the balcony first.
Step 2. Make your own catio, cage or catwalk for cats
If you have the tools, free time, and basic construction materials needed (wood, wire or metal mesh screens, and tools), you can make your own catio for cats. You can build a large open box, cage, or long enclosed walkway (like a catwalk). In other words, you can make your catio as simple or as fancy as you want.
- You can find inspiration or guides for building a catio from photos or catio designs. Many cat owners share tips and how to build their own catio on the internet, and this is usually accompanied by photos and videos of the finished product.
- This project can be an opportunity to channel your creativity. Try using different colors and mix and match with the colors of your house or apartment.
- This will save you the cost of buying a commercial catio (see next section) or the services of a handyman to make your cat's catio.
Step 3. Use the large dog kennel as an outdoor cage for the cat
In this way, you can save a lot of time, money and effort. Place the cage in a place that has a good view on the balcony.
- Choose the largest cage that will fit on the balcony.
- Don't forget that cats love high places with good views. Try placing a high perch in the cage so the cat can sit up a little higher.
- In addition, don't forget that cats shouldn't run away from the cage, so keep everything your cat needs in it, such as a water bowl or litter box. Make sure the cage is in the shade and exposed to a light breeze during the warm season so that it doesn't catch a heatstroke.
Step 4. Buy over-the-counter catio
There are many sites to visit to find the best catio for cats. One of the most popular brands is Kittywalk Systems. Usually cat magazines include advertisements for all types of cat cages. However, keep in mind that these catio are usually quite expensive (roughly up to Rp. 20 million), depending on your needs.
You also have a cheaper option which is a self-contained cage that can be folded and can be purchased for around IDR 500,000
Step 5. Make sure the cat can access the facilities it needs while on the balcony
The cat should be able to reach the water bowl and litter box. In addition, try to provide a shady and comfortable place for the cat to laze around when the weather gets colder.
You can even purchase a pet-friendly fountain to place on the balcony. This fountain doubles as a fresh drink for the cat and an ornament that enhances the outdoor touch of your balcony
Step 6. Make sure all the plants on the balcony are safe for cats
You don't want your cat to ingest plants that are harmful to their health.
If you like a balcony decorated with plants, try installing hanging plants and planters (pot racks) or window boxes that can be installed on the side of the balcony. This way, you can have greenery on the balcony while making sure the plants are out of reach for the cat
Part 2 of 2: Preventing Cats from Falling
Step 1. Train the cat to wear a harness
This way the cat can be more free and you can keep it safe while on the balcony. You need to know that it's best to start harness training as early as possible. There are many benefits of starting training immediately. If you start at, say 8 weeks old, your cat will find it easier to get used to the harness as if this were normal. However, adult cats can also be taught, just a little longer.
- Purchase a lightweight nylon "H" shaped harness that can be locked around the cat's neck and around the belly. "8" harnesses tend to come off more easily and are ineffective at keeping cats safe.
- Make sure you use a harness that is the right size. Measure the cat's neck and belly with a tape measure, but not too tight. Buy a harness that fits your measurements.
- Start by attaching the harness (no harness) to the loosest setting while giving your cat lots of praise and treats. Then, remove the harness after an interval of 1-2 minutes. Repeat at least twice a day for 1-2 weeks and gradually increase the time before giving treats and compliments. The goal of this method is to make the cat forget she's wearing the harness and feel comfortable wearing it.
- How ready your cat is to receive a harness depends on the individual character and intelligence of the cat. All types of cats, male or female, sterile or fertile, usually like to socialize and enjoy being around humans. Therefore, you have a good chance of training your cat to wear a harness.
Step 2. Put the harness on the cat and let it roam on the balcony
Attach the harness to the harness after the cat is trained and willing to put on the harness.
- Adjust the tension of the harness on the cat so that it fits securely, but you should still be able to fit two fingers between the leash and the cat. If it's too loose, the cat can slip freely. On the other hand, your cat will feel discomfort or pain if the harness is too tight.
- Be careful with regular harnesses as they can break under strong pressure and the cat may fall off the balcony. Use the harness to restrain the cat's movement so it can't reach the balcony railing and endanger yourself. If the purpose of using the harness is for the cat's safety (holding its weight when it falls), it's a good idea to purchase a harness that conforms to the restraint standards in the car.
Step 3. Tie the reins to a sturdy object
If your goal is to leave your cat free on the balcony while you are away, tie the leash to a sturdy object that doesn't move, and make sure that the cat can't reach the balcony railing from its position.
Make sure you tie the reins tightly. Check back on your bond by attracting a few cats as they roam the balcony
Step 4. Always monitor your cat
If you are at home, keep an eye on your cat when it roams on the balcony.
Warning
- If you are using a screen to enclose a balcony, be careful, as ordinary screens can be easily torn by cat claws. Visit a hardware store to get a hardware cloth that is stronger than a regular screen.
- Most cats fall when their attention is distracted by birds or clouds passing outside.
