Dangers of cats escaping through windows
One of the biggest dangers of cats escaping out windows is potential injury from falls or jumps. Cats can sustain severe injuries if they fall from heights over 3-4 stories. According to one study, cats reach terminal velocity after falling about 7 stories or 21 meters. This means they stop accelerating and max out their speed. While there are cases of cats surviving falls from greater heights, a multi-story fall onto hard ground often results in broken bones or other trauma (Wagwalking.com).
Cats that escape out windows can also become lost outdoors and unable to find their way home. This leaves them vulnerable to cars, extreme weather, predators, territorial cats, diseases from other cats, and more. Indoor cats lack survival skills to thrive outdoors and can experience great stress when lost. Even cats familiar with the outdoors can get disoriented after an escape and fail to return home (Wagwalking.com).
Outdoor cats face dangers from larger predators they may encounter, including coyotes, foxes, owls, and more. Cats have even been attacked by alligators and snakes in some regions. Small cats and kittens are most vulnerable to predators, but even adult cats are at risk of being injured or killed in these encounters (Wagwalking.com).
Why cats try to escape
Cats have natural instincts to explore and hunt, which can drive them to try escaping. According to The Spruce Pets, cats are extremely curious animals that want to investigate anything novel or interesting in their surroundings. Their strong sense of smell further compels them to explore and potentially escape if they detect intriguing odors outside. Even looking out a window can trigger their desire to go outside and explore the territory they see.
Boredom is another major reason cats try to escape, especially if they are left alone for long periods. Indoor cats can feel cooped up and understimulated. As reported by Rover, escaping provides excitement, adventure and stimulation cats crave. If your cat seems listless or acts out, boredom may compel them toward the door whenever you open it.
Cats are also highly sensitive and alert to any sights, sounds or smells from outside your home that capture their interest. As noted in Slate, they may bolt through an open door if they see or hear something outside like another animal, an unusual noise or an interesting smell. Their keen senses make them acutely aware of potential adventures awaiting them outside.
Preventing window escapes
One of the best ways to prevent cats from escaping out windows is to install protective screens or netting. Specialty pet screens like the Phifer PetScreen use a reinforced mesh that cats can’t tear through. You can also look into expandable window screens that mount into the window frame and expand to cover the entire opening. This essentially creates a barrier so your cat can still look outside, but can’t jump out.
It’s also important to keep windows shut whenever you are not directly supervising your cat. Cats can quickly dart through an open window when your back is turned. Consider locking windows shut when you are away from home. Distracting your cat from windows can also be helpful – placing a cat tree or toys away from the window gives them an alternative place to spend time.
Training cats not to escape
One of the most effective ways to prevent window escapes is to train your cat not to go near windows in the first place. This involves both rewarding them for ignoring windows and punishing window-dwelling behavior.
Give your cat treats and praise when they choose to spend time away from windows. You can also use clicker training to reinforce not staring out windows. Whenever your cat goes near a window, interrupt the behavior with a loud noise like hand clapping. Then redirect their attention to a toy or treat.
It’s important to provide enough mental and physical enrichment inside the home so your cat doesn’t feel compelled to escape outdoors for entertainment. Puzzle toys, cat trees, play sessions, and food dispensing balls can all help satisfy an active cat. Strive to make the indoors more rewarding than the outdoors.
With time and consistency, you can shape your cat’s behavior to avoid windows entirely. Just be patient – it may take some time before your training fully sticks.
Providing safe outdoor access
There are several ways to allow your cat to safely spend time outdoors while minimizing the risks of letting them roam freely.
Catios/outdoor enclosures
One option is to build or purchase a catio – an outdoor enclosure for cats. These allow cats to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of being outside while preventing them from roaming into dangerous areas. According to Battersea’s advice, catios provide “consistent and predictable access to the outdoors when they need it.” Catios can be stand-alone structures or attached to a window or door in your home.
Harness/leash walking
Another way to let your cat outside safely is to walk them on a leash and harness, similarly to dogs. The ASPCA recommends a sturdy harness or walking jacket, as collars can too easily slip off. Supervised leash walks allow your cat to explore the outdoors while keeping them close by your side.
Supervised garden time
You can also let your cat into a safely enclosed backyard or garden under your supervision. This allows them to experience grass, dirt, and other natural elements while preventing wandering. Ensure the area is fully enclosed and all potential escape routes are secured.
What to do if a cat escapes
If your indoor cat manages to slip out through a door or window, it’s important to act quickly to find them before they wander too far. Here are some tips on what to do:
Leave out food and a litter box near your home, as this will attract your cat back to a familiar location. Be sure to check the area frequently in case your cat returns.
Search thoroughly around your home and neighborhood as soon as you realize your cat is missing. Indoor cats often don’t go far when they first get outside. Look under decks, in bushes, up trees, and anywhere a scared cat may hide. Enlist neighbors to help search.
Check local animal shelters and vet offices in case someone brings your cat in. Provide a detailed description and current photos. If your cat is microchipped, be sure the registration is up to date.
Post notices with a photo and your contact info on community boards and social media. Offering a reward can incentivize people to be on the lookout.
While indoor cats face greater risks outdoors, don’t lose hope. With some luck and persistence, many missing cats are reunited with their owners.
Identifying escape risks
Certain types of cats are more likely to try to escape through windows than others. According to this source, the most escape-prone cats include:
– Curious, active breeds. Breeds like Siamese, Bengal, Abyssinian, and Maine Coon are known for being energetic and curious. They tend to explore more and have a stronger desire to go outside.
– Animals adopted as strays. Cats that lived outdoors before being adopted are very used to roaming and exploring. This makes them more likely to try escaping.
– Intact cats. Unspayed female cats in heat will try very hard to get outside to mate. Unneutered males will try escaping to find females. Getting cats fixed reduces roaming and escaping.
Pet-proofing your home
One of the best ways to prevent cats from escaping out windows is to thoroughly pet-proof your home. This involves blocking potential hiding spots, securing screens, and monitoring doors and windows.
Cats are natural explorers and will try to wiggle into any small space. Block potential hiding areas like underneath beds, behind furniture, and inside closets. Use boards, storage bins, or other barriers to cover these spots. You can also place cat beds in approved areas to encourage your cat to sleep in those designated spaces.
Make sure all window and door screens are securely fitted and maintained. Check for any tears or gaps where curious cats could slip through and escape outside. Consider installing heavy-duty pet screening for added protection.
Be diligent about keeping exterior doors and windows closed. Install childproof locks if needed to prevent cats from nudging doors open. Keep windows shut unless they have secure pet screening. Monitor all potential exits regularly to ensure your cat can’t sneak out (https://www.zoetispetcare.com/blog/article/cat-proof-home).
Alternatives to roaming outdoors
For cats accustomed to outdoor access, keeping them indoor-only can be a challenging adjustment. However, there are many enriching alternatives to allow cats safe stimulation without the risks of roaming outdoors.
Cat trees and shelves installed near windows can give cats an elevated climbing and perching area to view outdoor activity. Introducing new cat towers, scratching posts, and modular climbing walls provides mental and physical exercise. Puzzle toys like treat balls, puzzle mats, and interactive feeders promote natural foraging behaviors while keeping cats mentally stimulated. Dedicating at least 30-60 minutes per day for active playtime with toys like feather wands, laser pointers, catnip mice, and crinkle balls provides an outlet for energy and bonding. Brainstorm with your veterinarian regarding any anxieties or behavioral issues your cat is experiencing to develop tailored recommendations. With a commitment to enrichment and proper training, it is possible to transition most outdoor cats to a safe, happy indoor lifestyle.
When window access is OK
With proper precautions, some cats can safely experience looking outdoors through an open window.
Supervised window time may be acceptable for mild-mannered, older cats who are not prone to jumping or bolting. However, cats should never be left unmonitored near an open window according to Are cats safe near open windows?. Even a calm cat can be startled by something and accidentally fall.
There are products available to deter cats from entering windows and risking falls. For example, slanted shelves can be installed on the window sill forcing cats to lay down rather than stand. Plastic spikes, compressed air deterrents, or motion-activated devices may also discourage window access according to Do you let your cats sit in an open window? [Archive]. This allows fresh air while reducing risks.
While supervision is critical, not all window dangers can be prevented. Therefore, cats who persistently try to escape out windows may lose their privileges. Providing alternative enrichment is recommended.