High-rise syndrome

High-rise syndrome is a veterinary term for injuries sustained by a cat falling from a building,[1] typically higher than two stories (7–9 m (23–30 ft)).

[4] In a 2004 study, it was reported that cats falling from higher places suffered more severe injuries than those experiencing shorter drops.

[5] During a fall from a high place, a cat can reflexively twist its body and right itself using its acute sense of balance and its flexibility.

[5] A 1987 study speculated that this is done after falling five stories to ensure the cat reaches a terminal velocity by thereafter relaxing and spreading their bodies to increase drag.

[4][10] In 2021, a Chicago cat jumped from the fifth floor of a burning building, bounced after landing on a grass lawn feet-first and survived with no injuries.