Fatal Falls and Thin Ice, Ottawa Humane Society Warns of Spring Dangers for Pets

March 30, 2021 — The Ottawa Humane Society is warning the community about spring dangers to pets.

On March 22, a cat was rushed to the OHS after falling from an apartment balcony. The cat, currently recovering from its injuries in the OHS critical care unit, is a sign of an annual, deadly phenomena — High-Rise Syndrome.

As temperatures rise, cat owners living in apartments may be tempted to let their pets onto their balcony. Cats often seek out perches in high, dangerous places and if watching a bird, cats have been known to become so focused that they will step out onto thin air.

Unless in an enclosed “catio,” cats should never be left outside without a leash and harness and constant supervision. If a cat falls from a balcony, the owner should not assume that their pet has been killed, they should not give up on looking for their pet and they should call their veterinarian immediately.

High-Rise Syndrome is only one of the dangers warmer temperatures pose to pets.

During the spring, streams, rivers, ponds and lakes are a danger to pets. The OHS urges people to keep their dogs on a leash when near these bodies of water, as dogs can easily fall through ice or be stranded on a piece of ice that breaks away from a shoreline.

When close to any body of water, slippery and unstable streambanks and freezing water temperatures can lead to dangerous conditions for pets and their owners.

Media Contact
Ottawa Humane Society
Stephen Smith, Acting Manager: Communications
stephens@ottawahumane.ca
www.ottawahumane.ca