Creative Rescuer Uses Leaf Blower to Save Cat in Tree

Not All Cats Can Get Down From Trees on Their Own

Despite popular belief, not every cat is agile enough to descend from towering trees after a questionable climb. That’s where Shaun Sears and his team at Canopy Cat Rescue come in. For over 16 years, this Washington-based nonprofit has provided a vital service: rescuing cats stranded high in trees.

With over 8,000 feline rescues to date, the organization handles everything from basic climbs to highly complex operations requiring skill, creativity, and patience.

Meet Curtains: A Curious Cat with a Steep Problem

Last month, Sears got an emergency call from a distressed homeowner. Their typically indoor-only cat, Curtains, had bolted outside—only to find herself perched at the end of a thin, high branch. After hours of persistent meowing, it became evident she was out of her element and needed professional help.

“Her family definitely needed help, as she was an indoor-only cat,” Sears shared. Even for an experienced team like Canopy Cat Rescue, this situation was particularly tricky due to the cat’s precarious position and her inexperience outdoors.

Curtains’ Unusual Rescue: Innovation in Action

With the tree located next to an elevated porch, Sears saw an opportunity to use an unconventional approach. “I decided to go with the ‘pizza paddle’ or ‘peel’ technique,” Sears explained. Using an extendable net folded over itself, he created a makeshift platform.

The objective? Convince Curtains to walk onto the platform so she could be lowered down safely — no tree climbing required this time.

“After 16 years and around 8,000 rescues, we’ve learned some pretty unconventional techniques,” Sears said. Unlike more forceful methods, the pizza paddle approach needed Curtains’ trust and cooperation — and she delivered. Carefully, she climbed onto the net and was guided safely back to the ground. A perfect example of teamwork between a rescuer and a very brave kitty.

Rescuing Cats Full-Time: A Rewarding Mission

Though Curtains’ rescue was smoother than most, the work done by Canopy Cat Rescue is anything but easy. Each year, they respond to over 800 rescue calls, navigating all kinds of terrain and weather conditions to help frightened or injured felines. What drives them is more than just skill — it’s compassion.

“We feel pretty lucky to be able to do this full-time and help so many cats,” said Sears. “It’s very rewarding.”

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More About Canopy Cat Rescue

Location: Washington State
Years in Operation: 16+
Annual Rescues: 800+ cats
Techniques Used: Tree climbing, net platforms, stealthy retrieval strategies
Status: Non-profit, funded by donations

This heartwarming rescue of Curtains may have been a little easier than usual, but it highlights the ingenuity and heart behind every operation Canopy Cat Rescue performs. Whether it’s up a 100-foot fir or on a narrow limb, Sears and his crew are always ready to answer the call — with or without climbing.