Frequently asked questions

Cats often climb trees and usually make their way back down. Many years of experience have taught us that it’s often better to leave them alone, as an early rescue attempt could chase them higher or cause them to panic and fall.

If it is fair weather and the cat appears healthy, please monitor the situation. You may find that the cat comes down from the tree on its own after a few hours.  For advice contact the RSPCA 24-hour cruelty and advice line 0300 1234 999.

However, to make sure that the cat is not at risk please contact the RSPCA 24-hour cruelty and advice line immediately if:

• it is a kitten or young cat that is up a tree;
• the cat is stuck up a telegraph pole or electric pylon;
• the cat is in danger;
• it is bad weather or a hot day;
• the cat appears to be sick or injured in some way.

It is important not to attempt to rescue a cat yourself. Although cats are agile animals, they can injure themselves badly if they fall from a height. Always call a professional.

The RSPCA relies entirely on voluntary donations, so please understand that its resources are far more limited than the other emergency services. Although the Society can be contacted at any time of the day or night, RSPCA inspectors can only attend calls outside normal office hours (9am-5pm, Monday to Friday) in an emergency. The Society will always do its best to help an animal in need.