From 3am zoomies to knocking everything off the counter, our feline friends have their own unique habits and behaviors that help support their mental and physical enrichment. One common behavior many pet parents notice? Their cat prefers to perch on the highest spot possible in the house.
In this article, we’re exploring why cats seek out high places and how cat owners can support their cats’ mental and physical wellbeing.
A few reasons cats are drawn upward:
- Safety instinct: In the wild, elevated spots help cats avoid predators and keep an eye on potential threats. This is a natural instinct that many indoor cats still carry.
- Better vantage point: Cats love observing everything happening around them: people, pets, birds outside, suspicious grocery bags. Height gives them a full view of their territory.
- Warmth and comfort: Heat rises, and many elevated spots (window perches, top of couches, shelves, etc.) are cozy and quiet for our feline friends.
- Personal space: Especially true in busy households, high places can provide cats with a retreat where they can relax without being bothered.
- Natural climbing behavior: Cats are built for climbing! Their muscles, balance, and claws make vertical exploration both stimulating and fun.
How can you support your cat’s desire to spend time in high places?
If you have a cat at home, providing vertical spaces such as cat trees, shelves, or window hammocks can go a long way in supporting the mental and physical enrichment that cats naturally crave.
It’s also important to make sure those spaces are safe and stable. Secure shelves and cat trees properly, avoid placing climbing areas near unsafe surfaces or breakable objects, and make sure older cats can comfortably access elevated areas without the need for risky jumps.
For cats that could use extra support to stay comfortable and calm, pet parents may also consider introducing ElleVet’s CBD + CBDA into their cat’s routine. Scientifically proven to promote feline mobility, calm behavior, and overall wellbeing, ElleVet can help support your cat’s comfort as they continue climbing, exploring, and enjoying their favorite perches.
The bottom line
Many cats love high places because of their instinct to seek safe positioning and observe their surroundings from above. Cats are also natural climbers and can benefit from exploring elevated spaces in a safe, enriching environment.
ElleVet CBD + CBDA can help support cats that need a little extra help staying comfortable, active, and on the move. As always, consult with your cat’s veterinarian before introducing any new supplements or routines.
Any health or medical information in ElleVet blogs is from a variety of public and reputable sources. This information is intended as an educational resource only and is not a substitute for expert professional care.