Few U.S. municipalities offer services to rescue cats stranded in trees, leaving many pet owners desperate for help. But in Washington state, two professional arborists have made it their mission to save these frightened felines—free of charge.
Tom Otto and Shaun Sears, founders of Cat Canopy Rescue, have scaled towering trees for a decade, rescuing approximately 4,000 cats—some as high as 150 feet—in all kinds of weather. Their nonprofit responds to pleas from Western Washington residents whose cats are either trapped in treetops or suspected to be hiding among the branches.
How They Do It
Using specialized arborist equipment, Otto and Sears expertly climb trees, sometimes slingshotting ropes to reach the highest limbs. Before each rescue, they gather details from the cat’s owner—its name, preferred calls, and even favorite scratching spots—to help ease the frightened animal. A secure net bag ensures a safe descent.
For stray cats, they scan for microchips, increasing the chances of a happy reunion.
Why Cats Get Stuck
The duo also tackles a common question: If a cat can climb up, why can’t it climb down? The answer lies in their retractable claws, which make descending difficult for some felines. While a few manage on their own, many need intervention.
A Free Service with a Noble Mission
Despite rescuing up to four cats daily, Otto and Sears charge nothing for their expertise. Their motto: “We are a free service for the community. We want every cat to have the opportunity to be rescued.”
Not every rescue goes smoothly—some cats, like Lila and Tulip, react with fear or aggression. But the team’s experience and patience have helped them safely retrieve thousands of treed kitties.
What to Do If Your Cat Is Stuck
Cat Canopy Rescue serves Western Washington. For those outside the area, the organization recommends checking the Cat in a Tree Emergency Rescue directory to find local arborist assistance.
For Otto and Sears, their work is more than a passion—it’s a lifeline for cats (and their worried owners) across the region.
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