Although cats are incredibly agile, able to leap six times their body length, twist in mid-air and still land on their feet, and squeeze through tiny spaces, there is one manoeuvre that will leave them perplexed: getting down from a tree.
My mother’s cat found herself in this quandary this week.
I received a worried call from Mum to say Pusspuss (not very original I know) was stuck up a tree in her garden after chasing a squirrel.
She had been up there for an hour and was crying plaintively.
Internet investigation was called for and the situation was eventually resolved when Mum placed strong-smelling food at the base of the tree and a wooden plank against the trunk to act as a ramp.
It took another two hours but Pusspuss eventually eased herself slowly down backwards.
Once her paws were on firm ground, she nonchalantly sauntered into the house as if nothing had happened.
This situation led me to wonder why it is these deft creatures can climb so easily but cannot descend.
It turns out that their claws are forward-facing and can pull them up, but cannot grip when climbing down head first.
They have to descend backwards, a nerve-racking process which many cats are reluctant to undertake.
Contrary to popular thinking, the fire brigade will not automatically come out for cats stuck up trees.
They would need a formal request from an animal welfare officer.
The RSPCA recommend doing as Mum did, by enticing the stranded cat down with treats and food; and if this doesn’t work contacting a tree surgeon.
Sticking with the cat theme – three-year-old puss Mikey is looking for a forever home where he can spend his time enjoying life, sitting on laps and getting plenty of cuddles.
He likes exploring and would love a nice garden to call his own, where he can sunbathe in peace.
St Giles are re-homing Mikey on behalf of the RSPCA.
It is thought he could live with children of 14 plus but would like to be the only pet in the home.
stgilesanimalwelfare.co.uk/adoptions/mikey
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