I find the ability of some animals to be amazing in being able to figure out the means of escaping their cages or pens. Even snakes can become escape artists given half a chance. Sometimes when owners under-estimate the strength of a python or ability of a rattlesnake to climb walls. I have seen pythons in cages to small or weak for the size of the snake and seen them pop the lids off with ease. Maybe that is how many have escaped to the outdoors and into the Everglades, in South Florida.
Cats are quick and once outside can be very difficult to catch. My mother's cat runs for the door when opened, and if lucky enough to get outside he hides under the car where he knows we can not reach him. It becomes a game of cat & mouse, so to speak, in tricking him to come out from under the car so he can be caught. I often wonder if when they climb trees and telephone poles, and then cry as if they can't get down, if it is just a game to make their owners go crazy with worry and concern in attempting rescue. Even fire departments are called to the rescue in some cases and when down they act very satisfied with all the trouble they have caused. Please share more stories of pet escapes.