If you see a cat stuck in a tree, don’t assume it will figure out how to get down on its own. Cats can scramble up trees quickly and then be fearful of descending. Cats don’t like to back down trees and the tree may be too steep to head down.
As a first step, leave some very fragrant food at the base of the tree. Heat up tuna fish or canned cat food and then go inside. If there are many people milling about, the cat may be too afraid to descend. If this does not work after no more than 24 hours, you will need to seek help getting the cat down. Going too long without food can cause liver damage.
Most fire departments and animal controls will not extract cats from trees, so it is often left to the private sector. Here’s a directory of individual cat rescuers who might be able to help in your area.
Tree cutting services are also a good resource, or anyone you know with access to a cherry picker. Make sure there is a plan in place to get the cat directly into a secure vessel such as a carrier or cinch net. If you can only find services that charge, contact liz@catsinaction.org. We may be able to help you do a fundraiser.
The below tree services are owned by animal lovers and have been known to rescue cats for little cost or donations from the community. Be sure to give them a nice tip! We may need them again…
