Why Do Cats Like High Places?


Many of my friends ask me why their cats are always climbing up to the highest spot they can find. In fact, for people who own several cats there is usually a competition for the highest spot. Here are some beliefs about why:

1. Height can be a signal of dominance to a multiple cat household. The cat who sits atop the highest spot is usually the one who is in control, the boss.

2. Remember, our lovable furry friends used to live in the wild and many of their traits come from nature. By sitting in a high place, cats are better able to observe what goes on around them and in some instances use that vantage point as a place of refuge.

3. Heat rises! Usually the highest spot in the home is the warmest and that is exactly where your cat wants to be.

4. Being away from the action below is a way of calming themselves. Maybe they have had enough "interaction" with the baby, or the dog, or the other cats and just need a break.

Cats climb for many different reasons and sometimes for a combination of reasons.

The copyright of the article Why Do Cats Like High Places? in Pet Care is owned by Barbara Lombardi. Permission to republish Why Do Cats Like High Places? in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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