If you own a cat, you’ve probably seen them jump from one piece of furniture to the next until they’ve reached the highest spot in the room. Although you may assume a cat needs to be saved when you find them on top of the refrigerator, an essential component of pet care is knowing when to leave them alone. To help you understand cat behavior, here are five reasons why they leap to higher ground. 

Why Cats Seek Out Higher Ground

1. Height Advantage

As both predator and prey, cats instinctively search for higher perches so they can scan the ground for small rodents while putting distance between themselves and predators, such as coyotes. With an elevated view of their territory, they can detect activity that may warn them of approaching danger or a meal. 

2. Comfort & Warmth

Since heat rises, your cat may favor the top level of a cat tree over a bed on the floor. If you have a multifloor house, you may also find them sleeping in an upper-story bedroom curled up in whatever blankets they can find. To add to their comfort, place a small blanket on their favorite napping spot for extra warmth. 

3. Peace & Quiet

If you have a busy household, your cat may seek a lofty perch to avoid getting stepped on. If you’re having a party or are hosting a holiday meal, don’t be surprised if your cat leaps onto kitchen counters when your house is full of family and friends.  

4. Seclusion

Some cats seek sanctuary in high places because they’re hiding from a threat. For a cat, anything that’s chasing them or sniffing at them could constitute peril. When neighborhood kids come over and try to hold them or new dogs try to get familiar, your cat may seclude themselves on top of a tall dresser.

5. Play

Leaping from a couch to a kitchen counter before making a jump onto the fridge is similar to you running an obstacle course. Cats get exercise and entertainment from running around and leaping. To restrict their jumping onto furniture, get a tall cat tree so they can scale it instead of your couch.

Your cat deserves quality pet care. Liberty Veterinary Hospital, located in Liberty Township, OH, cares for animals of all ages and sizes. They provide comprehensive pet care with compassion and kindness. From routine checkups to dog grooming, this AAHA-accredited practice will take care of your pet and all its needs. To learn more about cats and their behaviors, visit their website, or call (513) 755-9700 to make an appointment.