Proper First Aid for Cats After High-Fall Accidents

Method 1: Stopping Active Bleeding

First and foremost, approach the injured animal cautiously. Even if it's your own cat, fear or pain can drive it to defend itself, so it's crucial to move slowly and carefully.

1. Apply pressure to the bleeding wound. If your cat is hemorrhaging severely and you don't have time to fetch a bandage or cloth, your hand can be used as a direct pressure point on the injury.

2. Maintain pressure on the wound for a full 10 minutes. This allows time for a blood clot to form and help stop the bleeding.

3. Secure a dressing over the wound. Be sure not to tie it too tightly, as this could impede blood flow and lead to serious limb issues.

4. If signs of internal bleeding are present, seek veterinary care immediately. Symptoms of internal bleeding may include pale gums, vomiting or coughing up blood; an enlarged abdomen, listlessness; shallow and rapid breathing; and a cold, clammy sensation to the limbs and paws.

Method 2: Treating Fractures

1. Inspect the limbs. If you suspect a fracture, observe the leg from close range but avoid moving the cat, as this can worsen the injury. With rib fractures, the chest may appear畸形 or unnaturally flat in certain areas.

2. Gently wrap an open fracture (where the bone is protruding through the skin). Do not attempt to apply a splint, as veterinarians would, as this is not part of first aid. Using a splint could potentially worsen the fracture or cause the bone to pierce the animal's skin.

3. Place the cat in a plastic or cardboard box. Try to keep the cat immobilized to prevent further injury to the fracture.

4. Seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.

Method 3: Prompt Veterinary Care

1. Keep the cat as still as possible. Allow the cat to remain stationary unless its location is dangerous (such as in the middle of a road).

2. Transport the cat using a homemade stretcher. When moving the cat, stabilize its head and neck to prevent any unnecessary movement that could harm the spine.

3. Position the cat's head lower than its body. This can be achieved by elevating one end of the stretcher. If the cat is lying in a car seat, position its head on the lower side of the seat.

4. Take the cat to the vet. It's best to contact the veterinarian beforehand to ensure they are prepared to assist.

Tip: For more information on cat fractures, you can read "How to Tell If a Kitten Has a Fracture or Sprain" for a deeper understanding.