Why Do Cats Like High Places?

Many feline companions exhibit a strong inclination for elevated spots, thoroughly savoring their moments spent aloft whether it's perched atop the refrigerator, nestled on a bookshelf's shelf, or comfortably ensconced on a dedicated cat tree perch, it's evident they've found their sanctuary. However, what motivates this preference for heights? Can providing opportunities for cats to ascend reduce stress levels and enhance feline camaraderie? The revelations might intrigue you.

Reasons Cats Like High Places

A cat's inclination for high places can be traced back to their deep-seated instincts. From an evolutionary perspective, cats have evolved as both predators and prey. Long before they became cherished companions in our homes, they navigated a world where they were both potential prey for larger creatures and avid hunters of small rodents and birds. Being perched high in the landscape offered distinct advantages, and these survival traits persist in their genetic makeup. High perches serve as a critical resource for every cat, fulfilling a range of essential needs.

1. Safety from Potential Threats: In the wild, high spots offered protection from predators like eagles and coyotes. These potential dangers can be rambunctious children or overly inquisitive dogs in a domestic setting. Elevated perches provide cats with a private, tranquil sanctuary where they can feel secure.
2. Enhanced Prey Observation: While indoor cats may not be hunting for survival, their instinct to seek higher ground remains intact. You can incorporate this instinct into their playtime, turning it into a simulated hunting experience, enriching their daily lives.
3. Promoting Harmony in Multi-Cat Households: Vertical space can serve as a buffer between cohabiting cats, helping to prevent conflicts. Adding vertical elements to shared spaces allows multiple cats to enjoy the same area without tension or confrontation.
4. Warmth and Comfort: High places are naturally warmer as heat rises. Cats often gravitate toward elevated spots, especially during colder seasons, seeking the cozy warmth they provide.
5. Satisfying Curiosity: Cats are inherently curious creatures. They relish observing and exploring their surroundings, and being perched on high grants them a unique vantage point to survey the world below, satisfying their curiosity.
6. Stress and Anxiety Management: Cats are sensitive to changes in their environment, such as the arrival of new family members or visitors. This can trigger stress and anxiety in some cats, prompting them to hide from perceived threats. High perches offer a sense of security while allowing them to stay informed about their surroundings. They may venture down and engage with their environment as they become more comfortable.
7. Secure Sleeping Spots: Cats spend a significant portion of their day sleeping, averaging around 15 hours. Elevated spots provide a sense of security, making them favored locations for napping. Perches with curved or raised edges prevent accidental falls, ensuring a safer slumber.

A cat's affinity for heights is deeply rooted in their evolutionary history and serves many practical purposes in both the wild and the modern home environment. Understanding these instincts can help us create enriching and harmonious living spaces for our feline companions.

Providing More Vertical Space For Your Cat

Apart from indulging your cat's affinity for lofty spots, providing ample vertical space offers physical and mental stimulation, constituting a vital aspect of harmonious cat ownership. Elevate your cat's environment by introducing:

1. Cat Trees: Explore the diverse range of commercially available cat trees that accommodate various spaces and budgets. These structures vary in height, feature multiple perches or compartments, and come in different materials. Some even incorporate toys, cozy beds, and built-in scratching posts. For the creatively inclined, consider crafting your custom cat tree with readily available DIY plans tailored for beginners to experienced DIY enthusiasts.
2. Climbing Walls: Craft a climbing wall comprising secure wall-mounted shelves arranged strategically for your cat's jumping enjoyment. Ensure the shelves offer ample space for rest, covering them with non-slip fabric for added safety. Choose between DIY climbing wall plans or convenient, complete kits to fashion an engaging vertical space.
3. Window Perches: Perfect for felines who relish observing the outside world, window perches are a cherished form of vertical territory. These perches can be acquired or crafted as DIY projects, positioned beneath, above, or within the window frame. Safely secure them with appropriate anchors and equip them with non-slip fabric. Always keep your windows closed to prevent any adventurous escape attempts by your feline companions.
4. Cat Hammocks: Easily augment your home's vertical space with a wall or windowsill-mounted cat hammocks. In addition to elevating your cat's position, these hammocks offer a comfortable resting space. Choose from various retail options or unleash your creativity with DIY versions, ensuring they align with your needs and home decor.
5. Utilize Appliance and Furniture Tops: Reclaim the upper surfaces of appliances or furniture to cater to your cat's desire for elevated spots. While the top of the refrigerator is a popular choice, other locations can serve equally well. Consider clearing space on bookshelves, cabinets, or buffets, but ensure your cat can leap comfortably. For greater accessibility, add steps or lower platforms to shorten the distance. Always secure everything firmly to the wall, as cats generate substantial force when jumping on and off objects, preventing accidents.

Incorporating vertical spaces throughout your home aligns with your cat's innate need to explore elevated terrain. It offers warmth and comfort, enriches their living environment, and contributes to their overall well-being, allowing them to thrive in their domestic habitat.