The Dilemma of Letting Fresh Air In While Keeping Kitties Secure
As pet parents, we want to open our windows to let in the fresh air and breezes but also need to keep our curious kitties safe. This poses a dilemma, as cats have a strong desire to explore the outdoors but lack the ability to judge safe versus dangerous heights and situations. Cat owners must find the balance between ventilation and security.
Open windows can present many dangers to free-roaming cats. According to a study by Sciencedaily, cats falling from heights accounts for up to 90% of trauma cases in pets. Falls as short as 2 stories can result in severe injuries and death. Other hazards include the ability to escape through the open window, exposure to insects and wildlife, and the risk of getting stuck in window casings or screens. Any open window, even if on an upper floor, poses a safety threat.
The phenomenon of cats falling from windows and balconies is so common that veterinarians coined the term “High-Rise Syndrome”. PetSci states that around 94% of cats brought to vets after high-rise falls ultimately survive, but often with substantial injuries. As cat owners, we want to avoid this trauma and allow fresh air while keeping our kitties secure.
Know Your Cat’s Personality and Abilities
When deciding whether to open your windows, it’s important to assess your cat’s personality and physical abilities. Some cats are natural explorers and will eagerly jump at the chance to get outside, while others are more timid and anxious. Hyperactive, adventurous cats are more likely to try to sneak out an open window compared to older or lazier cats.
Additionally, take into account your cat’s agility and ability to jump to high places. Young cats that can leap tall heights will have an easier time getting on window screens. Older or disabled cats may not be able to access windows as easily. Knowing what your cat is physically capable of will help determine the risk of them jumping through an open window.
As one Quora user noted, some cats enjoy looking out windows while others do not (source). Anxious or fearful cats likely have less interest in windows and lower risk of trying to go through. Get to know your cat’s individual personality quirks to gauge how much you can open windows safely.
Use Sturdy, Well-Fitted Screens
When choosing window screens to contain cats, opt for metal screens rather than fabric or other flimsy materials. Metal screens are much sturdier and can withstand the weight and claws of a cat trying to scratch or push through. Look for screens made from strong aluminum, steel, or iron that will hold up well (https://www.floppycats.com/cat-proof-window-screens-a-guide.html).
Ensure the screens fit very snugly in the window frame with no gaps along the edges a cat could exploit. Measure window openings precisely and purchase custom fit screens if needed. Use screen framing made from quality, rigid materials and secure screens in place with screws rather than temporary glues or tape. Install screens so they lie completely flat and pull the fabric taut across the frame. Eliminate any warping or excess material a clever cat could get claws into (https://www.rover.com/blog/cat-proof-window-screens/). Well-fitted, durable window screens are a key first line of defense against roaming cats.
Consider Cat Enclosures for Windows
Cat enclosures are boxes or patios that attach to your window, allowing your cat to safely enjoy the fresh outdoor air and scents. These cat enclosures for windows are a great solution for keeping your curious kitties from escaping out the window.
There are a variety of cat window boxes, patios, and enclosures on the market. Some are basic boxes made of wood or wire, while others are more elaborate patio systems. When shopping for a window cat enclosure, look for products that are well-ventilated, made with durable and chew-proof material, and easy to install and remove.
Popular options include:
- Catio Spaces Patio – An award-winning catio that replaces your window screen. It features mesh walls for airflow.
- Kittywalk Penthouse – An enclosure that mounts over the window sill with scratching pads, beds, and toys.
- Purrfect Fence Window Cat Enclosure – A wire box that allows cats to climb and perch while enjoying views.
- Kitty Cot Original Breeze – A plastic window box lined with pads for lounging.
When shopping, consider your cat’s personality and abilities. Active and agile cats may prefer larger enclosures with ramps, scratching posts, and perches. Older or less active cats may be content with a simple window shelf area to relax in the fresh air.
With the right cat window enclosure that provides security, ventilation, and entertainment, both you and your cats can enjoy having the windows open!
Use Deterrents Like Scat Mats
One effective way to deter cats from windows is by using scat mats. These mats give a harmless but startling static shock when a cat steps on them. Place mats on window sills, counters, or anywhere else cats try to jump up. The shock will deter them from jumping up without harming them. As noted in this Ars Technica forum thread, scat mats helped train cats to avoid treated areas.
There are other deterrent options too. You can apply double-sided sticky tape to window sills which cats dislike stepping on. Citrus or menthol smells repel cats, so try rubbing citrus peels or menthol balm along window edges as suggested in this article. Finally, place rough doormats or upside-down vinyl carpet runners on sills, which can deter cats from jumping up.
Distract Cats Away from Windows
One of the most effective ways to keep cats away from open windows is to provide distractions around your home. Place cat trees, toys, and treats in areas away from the windows to give your cat something more enticing to focus on. When you know you’ll be opening the windows, initiate a vigorous play session with your cat using interactive toys like feather wands and laser pointers. The exercise will tire them out, making them less likely to be drawn to the windows. You can also give cats treats or meals in their favorite spot far from the windows as another form of distraction. Just be sure to pick up the toys and put away the treats once the windows are closed again.1
Only Open Top Windows
Many falls happen when cats have access to lower, more reachable window screens that they can claw at or push through. Opening only higher, top windows that are out of your cat’s reach is an effective way to get fresh air while securing your curious cat.
Focus on keeping lower windows shut firmly, especially those at couch, chair, bed, and countertop level that provide easy jumping access. Only crack windows that are at the very top of a wall, above door frames or other furniture. Measure your cat’s maximum vertical leap to ensure the lowered top window remains unreachable.
This allows you to enjoy fresh air circulation while keeping away temptation and opportunity for your cat. Just be sure to supervise and track your cat’s location when top windows are open. Some athletic felines can still find ways to reach surprising heights.
Supervise at All Times
Cats can get into trouble very quickly, so it’s essential to directly monitor them whenever windows are open. Don’t just open the windows and walk away. Stay in the room and keep a close eye on your cats. Be ready to intervene if they get too curious about the windows. Even well-fitted screens may not fully contain a determined cat. As the ASPCA notes, “No screen is strong enough to prevent a cat from breaking through” (source). Assume your cats will try to get through the screen and consistently watch them when windows are accessible. With diligent supervision, you can allow fresh air while still keeping your cats secure.
Train Your Cat
Positive reinforcement can be an effective way to train cats to avoid windows. Start by rewarding your cat with treats whenever they move away from the window. You can use a clicker to mark the desired behavior. Over time, your cat will learn that staying away from windows results in yummy treats!
There are also techniques to deter window access. Putting double-sided tape on the windowsill is uncomfortable on cats’ paws. Spraying citrus or lavender scents near windows can also deter cats. Placing motion sensor deterrents like Ssscat near windows can give cats a harmless but startling puff of air. With patience and consistency, it’s possible to train cats to avoid problematic window areas.
It’s best to start training kittens young before window-jumping habits form. But be patient and persistent, even adult cats can learn new behaviors. Just make sure to reward good behavior more than punishing bad. And never physically punish cats, it will just make them anxious and untrusting.
With the right techniques and lots of treats, you can train your cat to happily stay away from risky open windows.
When in Doubt, Go Screenless
As much as we may want to let in fresh air on a nice day, it’s always better to play it safe and keep windows completely closed if you have any doubt about your cat’s ability to avoid falling or jumping out.
A fall from even a first floor window can be extremely dangerous and even fatal for cats. It’s simply not worth the risk of opening windows unless you’re 100% confident your cat can’t slip out.
If you need to improve air circulation in your home without opening windows, consider running fans or air conditioning units with filtered air instead. You can also look into installing ventilation systems that don’t rely on open windows, like air exchangers that utilize ducts throughout your home.
While it may require some investment into fans, AC units, or new ventilation systems, it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind knowing your cat is safe and secure indoors. Keep windows firmly shut whenever there’s any question, and find alternate ways to freshen the air that don’t jeopardize your cat’s wellbeing.