Warning after cat injured in window fall

A sharp spike in the number of cats being injured after falling from heights has led Blue Cross vets to issue a warning.

Nine-month-old kitten Mia is lucky to be alive after falling from a 10th-floor window earlier this year.

X-rays at our animal hospital in Victoria, central London, revealed multiple pelvic fractures and a severely damaged hind leg that could not be saved, resulting in amputation.

With her owner no longer able to keep Mia, the tricolour kitten was transferred to our care. She recovered from her operation in foster care before being found a loving home.

Mia, now 10 months old, is among a long list of cats who have narrowly survived devastating window falls this year. And with hot weather continuing, Blue Cross is urging cat owners to be vigilant with their pets.

In another incident, a three-month-old kitten called Apricot fell from a first-floor window and suffered a broken leg. 

Fortunately, her fracture was treatable — but not all pets are so lucky.

“If you own a cat, please don’t assume a small gap is safe,” warns Anna Ewers Clark, Head of Veterinary Services at Blue Cross. 

“Cats don’t always land on their feet. Falls from windows and balconies can cause horrific injuries — and all too often, they are fatal. 

"Every summer, we see shattered bones, internal trauma, and heartbreaking losses that could have been avoided.”

“Cats are naturally curious, and if they’re not neutered, the urge to roam is even stronger. An open window can be an irresistible — and deadly — invitation.”

Anna adds: “If your cat falls from a height, contact a vet even if they appear unhurt – there may be internal injuries which are not immediately obvious. 

"If your cat shows signs of pain, breathing difficulty or is unable to walk normally, they may need urgent veterinary care.

To keep pets safe this summer, Blue Cross advises owners to:

• Keep windows and balcony doors closed when pets are unsupervised
• Install pet-safe screens or netting to secure open windows
• Ensure cats are neutered to reduce the urge to wander