Household

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Cats are very curious animals and love to curl up in warm dark places. Many a cat has mistaken the washing machine for a comfortable cat basket and curled up among the washing.

• never leave the washing machine or tumble drier open
• always check your cat or kitten isn't asleep inside before turning the machine on

If by a tragic mistake your cat has been in the machine, this is an emergency so take it to the vet straightaway.

High rise syndrome

This is very common in urban areas where cats live in high rise apartment blocks. Many cats live indoors but love sunbathing on the balcony or windowsill, especially on balmy summers evening. Very commonly they can fall out the window while cat napping. Contrary to popular opinion, cats do not always fall on four feet so can easily suffer internal injuries and broken limbs. Surprisingly enough, many cats that fall even 10-15 floors can survive but they need to be taken immediately to the vet for a full check up.

What to do:

• If your cat has gone missing and the window is open, start making a thorough search of the vicinity. These cats are not used to the outside world and if frightened will run and hide under a bush
• if you still can't find your cat, put up signs immediately in your area. Contact the local vet to see if a passer by has taken it there for treatment
• your cat will be in severe shock and may have broken limbs. Handle it very gently and keep it warm by wrapping it in a blanket. Take it to the vet straightaway for emergency treatment

How to prevent high rise syndrome

• never leave the bottom of the window open as curious kittens will easily want to explore
• buy protective netting from a garden centre or DIY store for the windows so your cat can sunbathe and still be safe

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