Why Do Cats Like To Climb?

Cats are hard-wired to climb. Explore the reasons behind your cat’s love for high places and how to keep him safe while satisfying this natural urge.

We’ve heard of cats being stuck up trees or poles and needing rescue. They may have been scared by predators, but also, cats just love to climb. Even a kitten will try to scale your curtains or furniture. Why do cats like to climb? Let’s find out, and how you can satisfy this instinct while keeping your kitty safe. 

Climbing is in your cat’s DNA

Firstly, your cat can’t help climbing. It’s written in his DNA. He gets the trait from his wild cousin, the leopard, considered the most skilled climber among all cat species. But there’s more to it than that. Domesticated cats climb for several reasons.

• Entertainment

Cats will climb just because it’s fun. My playful kitten, Cici, would dash across the living room at full speed. Then she’d launch herself onto the back of the recliner, landing with impressive agility. It was a joy to watch and my daughters found it absolutely hilarious! 

• Development

Climbing is a part of a kitten’s development and growth. It improves his balance, strength, and agility. This is especially vital for wild or outdoor cats who may need to climb to escape predators. 

• Exercise 

Climbing is a great way for your cat to give his muscles a workout and sharpen his claws. “It provides indoor cats with essential physical exercise, helping to maintain muscle tone and a healthy weight,” says veterinarian Dr. K. Singh.

• Love for high places 

The Animal Humane Society say cats love to climb and explore their surroundings from above. They also suggest you “create vertical spaces in your home to satisfy [your cat’s] climbing instincts.” 

Embrace your cat’s climbing

Climbing supports your cat’s physical and mental well-being, so encourage it rather than curb it. Embrace your cat’s climbing and provide safe ways to allow him to satisfy this natural need.  

“Cat trees, shelves, and ramps play an essential role in meeting your feline’s instinctual needs,” says Dr. Singh. “They also keep him physically active and mentally engaged.” Create an environment that lets your kitty climb freely, and you’ll enjoy a happier, more contented cat.

• Cat trees:

  These serve as great climbing structures and offer resting spots and scratching surfaces. They vary widely in size, complexity, and number of levels. I’ve seen a basic wooden cat tree for $11. On the other end, some top-tier towers have five floors and a hammock — and cost up to $3,000.

Whatever your budget, be sure to invest in a cat tree that’s tall and sturdy and offers multiple perches. Feline behaviorist, Stephanie Merlin, recommends focusing on size, function, and accessibility.

• Cat shelves

  : If you or someone you know can install shelves, try creating long “paths” across a wall. Your cat will love climbing and exploring them. Install the shelves at various heights to encourage jumping and support your cat’s balance. I was delighted to see cats walking and playing on wall shelves in a cat café I visited.

• Cat ramps:

  These offer gradual inclines so cats can safely move up and down from high spots like beds or windowsills. They’re a great option for older or disabled cats. Ramps give them a gentle climb without the risk of injury. Carpet-covered ramps prevent sliding. 

Why do cats like to climb? It’s a natural behavior that entertains them, strengthens balance and muscles, and supports their health and happiness. By creating a feline-friendly space with a cat tree, shelves and/or ramps, your cat can climb and explore freely and safely.

Outdoor climbing safety 

Free-roaming outdoor cats face multiple dangers, including dogs, coyotes and other predators. They may climb trees or telephone poles to escape, but can’t always get down without help.

If your cat likes being outside, consider building him a cat enclosure. Add logs or large tree branches to satisfy his climbing instincts while keeping him safe. 

Jumping is linked to climbing 

You’ve likely watched your cat take a flying leap at whatever he’s about to climb — whether it’s a tree or an armchair. A study in the Journal of Experimental Biology found that cats begin their jumps in a deep crouch, front paws stretched out like Superman. They launch forward with explosive power from their back legs, propelling themselves through the air.

The post Why do cats like to climb? appeared first on Animal Wellness Magazine.