Why You Should Consider Pet Stairs for Your Small Pets - Home & Texture
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Have Small Pets? Here's Why You Should Consider Adding Pet Stairs to Your Home

Your small pets need stairs too—here's why, plus how to choose the right ones for your pet.

January 8, 2024 at 10:49 PM PST

For many, our four-legged companions are considered cherished family members. That means taking care of their health and well-being to keep them around as long as possible. For cats and smaller dogs, access to higher spaces like the sofa or bed can be challenging, especially as they get older. Opting for furniture that’s low to the ground is one solve—but refurnishing your house isn’t exactly realistic. That’s where pet stairs come in as a simple solution.

Orange cat with red bandana
Photo Credit: Lina Kivaka

The Need for Accessibility

Pet stairs are more than just a convenience; they are a necessity for your pet’s overall well-being. Jumping from heights can place unnecessary strain on their joints, bones, and muscles, potentially leading to injuries or long-term health issues. By providing pet stairs, you are effectively safeguarding your furry friend from these potential risks.

Think about it as an investment in your pet’s future. Maintaining healthy joints and bones is crucial for a long and happy life, and pet stairs are a simple yet effective way to achieve this.

Preventing Unwanted Accidents

It’s no secret that small pets often have an adventurous spirit that sometimes borders on the daredevil side. They may attempt daring leaps and climbs, which can result in accidents for them and unintentional damage to fragile items. Broken vases, knocked-over lamps, and scratched furniture are just some of the common casualties.

Pet stairs act as a barrier between your pet’s mischievous antics and your stuff. They provide a controlled and secure route, guiding your furry companion to their destination safely and reducing the risk of these unwanted mishaps.

Woman on bed on laptop with dog laying on her
Photo Credit: Samson Katt

Comfort and Independence

Being a small pet in a big world means constantly relying on your human companions to lift you up or carry you around. While it might sound cute, it can also be limiting for your pet. Pet stairs offer your furry friend a newfound sense of independence. They can access their favorite spots without needing constant assistance, making them feel more at ease and less reliant on their humans.

Reducing Stress and Anxiety

For many pets, especially cats, climbing and exploring high places is a natural behavior. When they can’t reach these heights, it can lead to frustration, stress, and pent-up energy. Pet stairs allow them to indulge in their instincts. Picture your cat perched on a high vantage point, surveying their kingdom with contentment. That’s a mini king or queen of the jungle right there, thanks to those trusty pet stairs.

Grey cat laying on bed
Photo Credit: Pixabay

Choosing the Right Pet Stairs

Pet stairs come in all different sizes and materials, so after you’ve made the decision to get some, you have to make sure to get the right kind for their safety and comfort. Consider the size and weight of your pet when making your choice. Look for stairs that are sturdy, well-constructed, and equipped to support your furry friend’s specific needs. Additionally, aesthetics matter too. Choose pet stairs that match your home’s existing decor so they blend seamlessly into your living space while serving their purpose.

Transitioning to Pet Stairs

The next hurdle you have to conquer—introducing your pet to the concept of stairs. Since every pet might react differently and might be freaked out by them at first, this may require some patience and positive reinforcement. Start by placing them out of the box and in their environment to let them investigate. When they approach and take a sniff, reward their behavior with a small treat and praise. They might take to them right away, but if not, place treats by them and on the steps to encourage exploration. Once they’re acquainted, you can walk them up and down the stairs to get an idea of how to use them. For the first few days, reward them every time they use the stairs and correct them each time they don’t.




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