It's a scenario many cat owners know well: You walk in the room, looking for your beloved feline, only to discover them perched high atop the refrigerator, walking nimbly across an upper-floor banister, or nestled happily on the topmost bookshelf. Cats are agile creatures that are naturally drawn to the highest spots in a room. There's no reason to call the fire department or rush them to the pet hospital if they leap off. If they got up there, they can usually get down easily. Below are some insights into this remarkable preference and ability.

Monitoring the Room

Cats are ever-alert animals. On a purely instinctual level, they are always aware, to some degree, of what's going on around them. That's why many cats are so quick to startle and why they sleep with their ears perked up—they're on the lookout for danger.

A high vantage point allows them an ideal location to maintain their alertness and monitor the room. They can see who comes and goes, escape in a pinch, and swiftly assess who is a friend or a foe.

Defending Themselves

A cat feels safe in high locations. The height gives them the extra space they need to defend themselves if another feline, a dog, or another household pet decides to launch an offensive. A surprise attack from another animal is almost impossible from this position. They have the necessary room to get a strong foothold and launch themselves either in the direction of the threat or away from it—whichever makes the most sense.

Exhibiting Their Status

It's no secret that cats have high self-esteem and know exactly who and what they like or dislike. They are sure of themselves, and they assert this assurance in their relationships with other animals in the household. For some cats, one way they do so is by establishing dominance.

A dominant cat often seeks out the highest places in a room to reflect their elevated status. The high spot also keeps them away from the shenanigans of other pets and humans. They can look down and decide which activities warrant their involvement.

Whether your cat prefers your lap or the rafters of the ceiling, routine pet care is essential to their long-term health. Alexandria Pike Animal Hospital is a pet hospital that has been serving northern Kentucky and downtown Cincinnati since 1956. They offer pet wellness testing, animal vaccinations, dental care, boarding, and much more. Visit them online to explore their services. Call (859) 781-1800 to schedule an appointment with this trusted local pet hospital.