Cats can actually assess heights quite well and are able to withstand falls from great heights without injury due to what is known as the righting reflex, a complex rotational movement of the entire body. However, this rotational movement takes time and thus requires a fall of at least three metres. Nevertheless, a fall always entails an enormous risk of injury and should be prevented whenever possible.
An effective and flexible cat protection for balconies and open windows consists of safety netting. There are various types of nets and fastening systems with which you can adapt the installation of the net to the given architectural conditions. Smaller nets are particularly suitable for securing windows, whereas larger nets can be stretched over a large area around your balcony.
The nets can be stretched with sturdy, weather-resistant lines. These are usually delivered along with the purchased cat protection product. Telescopic rods, which are attached to the balcony with wall or railing clamps, are available for the sturdy installation of the cat protection.
Tilting windows are best secured with wedge-shaped window screens. They prevent your cat from getting its head or body caught in the tapering of the window opening, which, in the worst-case scenario, can lead to strangulation.