Amsterdam comes to the rescue of cats: mini ladders in the canals to save lives

A simple, concrete, and potentially life-saving project.

Amsterdam confirms its attentive and sensitive soul toward animals by introducing an urban solution designed to protect cats and small animals from the dangers of its canals.

According to reports from Pet with it and Time Out, the city of Amsterdam will soon begin installing mini wooden ladders along the canals, allowing domestic cats and other animals — such as waterfowl, hedgehogs, and local wildlife — to climb out of the water and reach safety.

Why this intervention is urgent

Over the last six months, unfortunately, at least 19 cases of cats drowning in the city's canals have been recorded.

This alarming figure has highlighted a risk often underestimated in urban environments crossed by water.

This led to the idea of replicating a model already successfully tested in the city of Amersfoort, where over 300 "cat ladders" have been installed, with concrete results in reducing accidents.

A shared and targeted project

The Amsterdam project is supported by the animal welfare party Partij voor de Dierenand is carried out in collaboration with Dierenambulance Amsterdam, which will help identify the most dangerous spots along the canals.

The City Council has allocated 100,000 euros from the biodiversity fund, proving that animal protection is not just a good intention, but a concrete responsibility.

Small gestures, big impact

These mini ladders are a detail that is seemingly simple, yet vital.

Measures like this demonstrate that caring for animals is not a luxury, but a choice of civilization.

Designing cities that are safer for pets and urban wildlife means saving lives, but also building spaces that are more respectful and inclusive for everyone.

The Bauking Vision

At Bauking, we believe this is the true spirit of being Pet-Inclusive: creating urban and travel environments where not only humans, but pets as well, can feel safe.

Because "we care" means looking to the future with responsibility, imagining cities and destinations designed with our life companions in mind.