Losing a Furry Family Member
The ache and emptiness of a pet parent who has lost their furry family member is a unique kind of heartbreak. In an instant, my curious cat who greeted me at the door every day was gone after falling from an open window. Losing a beloved pet so suddenly leaves one shocked, saddened, and searching for answers. While nothing can bring back a lost pet, it is possible to prevent future accidents by learning from this tragedy and taking measures to cat-proof your home.
The Accident
My cat, named Fluffy, was a playful orange tabby cat who loved exploring and discovering new places in my apartment. One day, as I had the living room window open, Fluffy jumped up on the window ledge wanting to check out the view outside. He was 8 years old and had been my companion for many years.
Fluffy lived in a fifth floor apartment with me and up to this point had never shown much interest in the windows. However, on this sunny morning in spring, the fresh air coming through enticed his curiosity. As an indoor only cat, Fluffy was not accustomed to being up so high.
As I was washing dishes in the kitchen, I heard a loud meow followed by a thump outside. To my horror, when I rushed over I saw Fluffy lying still on the sidewalk below. The window screen had not been secure enough to hold his weight. In an instant, Fluffy had fallen five stories down onto the hard pavement.
I immediately ran downstairs in a panic to check on him. Tragically, Fluffy had not survived the fall. The vet later explained that cats can withstand falls from higher distances if they land on a soft surface that absorbs impact, but the concrete below was unforgiving. I was overwhelmed by grief having lost my beloved cat in such an abrupt, preventable way.
Grieving Process
Losing a beloved pet can be an extremely painful experience. According to studies, over 85% of pet owners report grief symptoms comparable to losing a family member when their pet dies (Sky News, 2023). The grieving process typically involves going through common stages of grief, including denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance (Psychology Today, 2022).
It’s important to allow yourself to fully experience these emotions and not ignore them. Find ways to memorialize your pet through photos, creating a scrapbook, planting a tree, or holding a small ceremony. Lean on your support system of family and friends during this difficult time. Consider joining a pet bereavement support group to connect with others going through similar grief.
As you cope with the loss, set small daily goals, get rest, exercise, and focus on self-care. Don’t make any major life decisions right after losing your pet. With time and support, most pet owners are able to process their grief and cherish the happy memories. Though the pain never fully disappears, it does gradually become more manageable. Be patient with yourself and seek professional counseling if you’re struggling with prolonged or complicated grief.
Preventing Falls
One of the most important steps pet owners can take to prevent tragic accidents like this is to pet-proof their windows and balconies. There are several products available to help make windows and balconies safer for curious cats.
Installing window screens specifically designed for pets can help prevent falls. According to Homespire, pet-safe window screens are made of materials that cats won’t scratch through or push out of the window frame. Another option is attaching a cat net over the window, as recommended by Rover. These nets allow light and air flow while preventing cats from falling.
It’s also important to train cats to avoid windowsills and balconies. Try placing double-sided sticky tape on these surfaces, which cats dislike walking on. Offer alternative high perches around the home so they don’t see windows and railings as their only options. With time and consistency, cats can be conditioned to avoid areas that could lead to dangerous falls.
High-Rise Dangers
High-rise syndrome refers to injuries sustained by cats falling from heights, typically greater than two stories or 7-9 meters (23-30 feet) (Wikipedia). It’s estimated that nearly 80% of falls from high-rises are by cats (ASPCA Pet Insurance). This type of accident is unfortunately common, especially in urban areas with tall apartment buildings.
There are several factors that contribute to cats being prone to high-rise falls. Cats are naturally curious and often sit on windowsills or balcony edges. Their excellent balance and agility can lead them to take risks near heights. Cats may also chase birds or other prey near open windows. And if startled while on an edge, a cat’s instinct is to jump, without considering the consequences (Animal Medical Center).
Understanding the dangers cats face from high-rise falls is an important step in prevention and safety.
Create a Safe Home
When bringing a new cat home, it’s important to ensure their environment is safe (https://www.armandhammer.com/en/articles/how-to-cat-kitten-proof-your-house). There are several tips for creating a safe home for your cat.
Start by covering or taping down any loose wires and cords. Cats love to chew on these, which can pose an electrocution risk. Make sure to cover all electric cords as well as cables and chargers (https://www.thewildest.com/cat-lifestyle/cat-proof-house).
Remove any poisonous houseplants or move them to an area the cat cannot access. Common houseplants like lilies, poinsettias, and philodendrons can be very toxic to cats if ingested.
Keep the toilet lid closed to prevent any accidental falls into the water. You may also want to consider a child-proof latch on any cabinets containing harmful cleaners or chemicals.
Provide your cat with appropriate scratching posts and surfaces so they don’t damage furniture. Place scratching posts near couches or chairs to redirect scratching behavior.
One of the best ways to provide a safe environment is to create vertical space with cat trees, shelves, and perches (https://www.zoetispetcare.com/blog/article/cat-proof-home). Place climbing structures near windows to give your cat an elevated view outdoors. Strategically placed cat trees and perches will satisfy your cat’s natural instinct to climb and reduce the risk of dangerous jumping and falls.
Warning Signs
There are some behavioral signs that cat owners should look out for that could precede a dangerous fall. If your cat is exhibiting any of the following, it’s important to take preventative measures:
- Increased vocalization or meowing, especially at night – This could indicate disorientation or declining cognitive function that could lead to a fall.
- Aimless wandering or pacing – This may be a sign your cat is confused or having trouble perceiving distances and edges.
- Attempting to jump on or off furniture but missing the landing – Declining vision or mobility could impede your cat’s jumping accuracy.
- Unsteadiness or stumbling – Your cat may have developing arthritis or neurological issues affecting balance.
- decreased interest in play or interaction – This can point to overall health decline that necessitates fall precautions.
If you notice any of these behaviors in your cat, schedule a veterinary visit to identify and address potential underlying causes. In the meantime, cat-proof your home by keeping clutter off stairs, blocking access to balconies or windows, installing stair gates, placing foam cushions around furniture edges, and keeping your cat’s favorite resting spots away from high places. With some adjustments, you can keep your cat safe.
When to Seek Help
If your cat’s behavior has changed significantly after the traumatic fall, it may be a sign of underlying anxiety or other issues. According to the ASPCA, “Problems like resource guarding, handling issues, separation anxiety and aggression toward people or other animals require custom treatment plans and individual attention from a professional” (source). Consulting with a veterinary behaviorist can help diagnose any behavioral disorders and create an effective treatment plan.
Some signs that your cat may need to see a behaviorist include aggression, destructive behaviors, house soiling, or excessive vocalization. A vet can rule out any medical causes for the behavior change. Then a certified applied animal behaviorist can do a full behavioral assessment and determine the right approach, which may involve desensitization training, medication, or environmental changes (source). Getting professional help quickly after a traumatic incident can help your cat recover and prevent lasting anxiety issues.
Closure
Losing a beloved pet is incredibly difficult. While the pain may feel unbearable, it’s important to allow yourself to grieve fully. With time, the sadness will ease, and fond memories of your pet will bring more smiles than tears.
As you begin to find closure, reflect on the happy times you shared together. Your pet enriched your life in so many ways – with unconditional love, companionship, and joy. Honor their memory by opening your heart to a new animal friend when you feel ready. Your pet would want you to provide that same love and comfort to another animal in need.
Though nothing can replace your cherished companion, you will meet again one day at the rainbow bridge. For now, take things one day at a time and trust that the pain will lessen. Your pet lives on in your heart and memories. Their love surrounds you still.
Further Resources
The loss of a furry companion can leave you dealing with an avalanche of emotions as you grieve. It’s important during this time to reach out for help and find healthy ways to cope. Here are some additional resources for pet-proofing your home, dealing with grief, and finding support:
- ASPCA: Cat-Proofing Your Home – Tips and advice from the ASPCA on securing windows, balconies, and other areas to keep your cat safe.
- Psychology Today: 7 Self-Care Essentials While Grieving the Death of a Pet – Helpful strategies for self-care and managing grief after the loss of a pet.
- Pet Loss Professionals Alliance – National association of pet loss professionals and grief counselors who can provide support.
- Rainbow Bridge Pet Loss Grief Support Center – Online grief support community and pet memorials.
- Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement – Non-profit organization with helpful pet loss resources and tips for coping.
Losing a beloved pet can be devastating. Remember to be gentle with yourself and don’t hesitate to reach out for help during the grieving process. With time, support, and loving memories, you can make your way through.