ObjectivesHigh-rise syndrome (HRS) is one of the most common causes of trauma in cats; however, significant inconsistencies remain in the literature regarding the relationship between fall height and injury severity, as well as epidemiological patterns, including seasonal variations and architectural risk factors. Given these discrepancies, the aim of the present two-part study was to analyse a substantial population of cats to clarify these unresolved questions, providing a comprehensive assessment of injury patterns, survival rates and risk factors associated with feline high-rise falls.MethodsThis retrospective analysis included 1125 cases of cats treated for HRS at the Freie Universität Berlin's small animal clinic between 2004 and 2013. Eligible cases involved cats falling from at least the second floor of new buildings or the first floor of older buildings. Collected data encompassed breed, sex, age, weight, timing of accident, prior treatment, fall height, impact surface and environmental factors. The first part of this study focuses on epidemiological patterns and risk factors, while the second will analyse injury severity correlations.ResultsEuropean Shorthair cats accounted for 82% of cases, with an average age of 2.3 years and an average weight of 4.1 kg. Falls were evenly distributed between sexes. Seasonal peaks occurred in summer (77%) and most incidents took place at night (62.1%). The average fall height was in the range of 8-15 m, with the majority of cats landing on hard surfaces (74.2%). Repeat incidents (two separate falls) were documented in 1.4% of cases.Conclusions and relevanceThis study, with the largest sample of feline HRS cases, highlights the influence of seasonal, temporal and environmental factors on fall risks. The findings offer a critical basis for preventive strategies, including owner education, use of window barriers and prompt veterinary care, to mitigate the incidence and severity of HRS.
Keywords: Falls; accidents; height; high-rise syndrome.
Falls from buildings in cats: risk factorsHigh-rise syndrome (HRS) refers to injuries in cats that fall from significant heights, usually from the windows or balconies of apartment buildings. Although this is a common cause of trauma in cats, there is disagreement in previous studies about whether falling from a greater height leads to more severe injuries. There is also limited research on how seasonal changes, building design and other factors influence these accidents. This two-part study aims to answer these questions by analysing a large group of cats that experienced high-rise falls.Researchers reviewed medical records of 1125 cases of cats treated for HRS at a veterinary hospital in Berlin between 2004 and 2013. The study included cats that fell from at least the second floor (or the first floor in older buildings). Information was collected on the cat’s age, breed, sex, weight, fall height, landing surface and time of the accident. The first part of the study focuses on general patterns and risk factors, while the second part will examine the severity of injuries.Most affected cats were young, with an average age of 2.3 years. Most cats were European Shorthairs (82%). Falls occurred more often in summer (77%) and mainly at night (62.1%). Most cats landed on hard surfaces (74.2%). A small number (1.4%) experienced two falls. Falls were equally common in male and female cats.This study confirms that certain times of the year, especially summer, pose a higher risk for falls. Window and balcony barriers can help prevent these accidents. Educating cat owners about these risks and ensuring prompt veterinary care for injured cats can reduce the severity of injuries and improve survival rates.