Falls from Height

Falls from heights, such as balconies, windows, or stairs, can cause severe internal and external injuries. Cats often suffer from "high-rise syndrome," which includes a specific pattern of injuries from falls.

Potential Injuries:

• Broken bones (especially legs and jaw)
• Chest trauma (bruised lungs, collapsed lung)
• Internal bleeding
• Head injuries
• Ruptured bladder
• Diaphragmatic hernia (tear in the muscle separating chest and abdomen)

First Aid:

1. Approach cautiously. The pet may be in pain and disoriented.
2. Assess for obvious signs of injury like bleeding or fractures.
3. Minimise movement, especially if a spinal injury is suspected.
4. Control any severe bleeding with direct pressure.
5. Carefully transport to an emergency veterinarian on a flat surface or in a carrier.