1. PetSafe CozyUp Folding Cat Steps
Key Features
Foldable steps with fabric tread
Non-skid feet and side rails
Cleans easily with soap and water
Suitable for pets up to 150lbs
Our top pick is a well-priced and super-versatile pet step that’s durable and lightweight and can be used for both cats and dogs. The PupStep is also ideal for larger cats as it’s designed to support a pet weight of up to 150 pounds. Made from pet-safe molded plastic, you also get fabric step treads and non-skid feet with side rails to keep your kit secure. Lightweight to carry, this portable pet stair and ramp combination can be easily moved around the house and the fold out back panel locks to keep everything secure. When not in use, simply fold the back panel flat and the whole cat ramp can be stored in a cupboard or underneath a bed. We think the PupStep is also a good choice for the car or when traveling with your kit.
2. Aeromark International Armarkat Cat Steps
Key Features
Three step tower stairs
Faux fleece covering
Pressed wood board frame
Holds up to 70 pounds
We loved the soft fleecy feel to these three step floating cat stairs and the cool ivory color that will work with most home decors. With the sturdy frame made from pressed wood board, the spacing between and the width of each step is ideal for easy climbing and descending, without straining your pet’s legs, back or joints. Your kit may mistake the tower-like legs for a scratching post, but the fabric looks durable enough to take some clawing. You do need to assemble the Armakat set of stairs but it’s easy to do, although there are bolts on the bottom of the base which perhaps makes this cat step best suited to carpeted rooms, or use on a rug or floor covering, rather than a wooden floor.
3. Furhaven Assist Multi-Step Cat Stairs
Key Features
Sturdy cat step ramp
Two or three step options
Covered in soft faux fur
Self-assembly required
The Steady Paws is a substantial looking three-step pet stair that can also be reconfigured to two steps if your cat needs to reach a lower height. The result is a flexible pet step that works with smaller cats and kittens, to help them get up and down when needed. The platform frame is made from rigid board while the covering is a super-soft furry fabric that will feel delightful under their paw, helping to entice your cat to use their new kitty steps. The cover can also be spot cleaned for easy care although it cannot be removed. For the price, this is a neat pet ramp that does its job with very little fuss.
4. USA Made Pet Steps And Stairs
Key Features
Choice of three or four steps
Mattress-grade cushion inner
Removable cushion for easy cleaning
Supports up to 150lbs
This is one plush-looking stair for cats that’s both sturdy and lovely under paw. Choose from a three or four step design so you can match the height to the size and climbing ambitions of your pet. Made from mattress-grade cushioning, the whole stair is covered in a soft cord fabric that cushions your cat as they climb and is kind on their claws. And the big plus to these cat wall stairs is that the cover is totally removable and machine washable. USA Made pet has also considered the cat owner too, offering a choice of four fabric patterns and eight colors so you can choose a design to match your home. And, to shake it all up, you can also buy spare covers so you can change the look.
5. Zinus Step Comfort Pet Stairs
Key Features
Two-step stair for smaller kits
High-density foam inner
Removable, washable cover
Lightweight and portable
The cube-like design to the Zinus Step makes for compact pet stairs that are easy to use and move around. There are just two steps, but they are wide and deep, so this stair is a good choice for kittens or smaller cats when used against furniture of as cat stairs on wall. The inner is made from high density foam so kind on stiff joints or still growing bones and are easy for your cat to stand on and climb. There is an element of assembly but there’s no need for tools and the lightweight design means it is easy to move and carry around. Another step with a removable cover, for the price you get effective and easy to keep clean stairs steps for your cat.
6. Pet Gear Easy Step II Pet Stairs
Key Features
Wide and deep steps
Removable carpet tread
Inclined angle for easy climbing
Non-slip rubber grippers
If your kit is not so sure footed or they struggle a little with balance, then these wide steps from Pet Gear are the business. And the size of each step means a smaller cat can get their whole body onto each platform, making it a more secure experience. If you look closely each of the two large steps are also on a slight incline, making it easier for your pet to climb to the top. Altogether, this makes the pet stairs block quite large, so are not as discreet as others in this review. But they work and are also easy to maintain, thanks to the removable carpet tread that is machine washable.
7. Good Life 25″ 4 or 5 Steps Pet Stairs
Key Features
Four-step stairs for easy reach
Acts as a perch and scratching post
Covered in faux fleece
For pets up to 70 pounds
This cat condos-style pet steps loves to multi-task – it’s a four step stair, perch and scratching post in one! With the frame made from durable pressed wood, the whole stair tree is covered in neutral cream faux fleece that is soft and warm underfoot.
At a top height of 25 inches, it can be used to reach sofas, windowsills and beds nicely, and is pretty lightweight so it can be moved around. You do need to assemble this pet product, but it’s not so difficult and the finished result is durable and long-lasting. The main downside is that the carpet covering is not removable, so making it a little difficult to keep these pet stairs dirt free and clean.
8. Majestic Pet Portable Pet Stairs
Key Features
Durable foam pet stairs
Four well-sized steps
Removable, washable cover
Choice of patterned fabrics
We like the stylish look to these pet stairs that will look smart in any home. And they work well for your height-loving cat too. Designed to give a supportive feel underfoot, these pet stairs are excellent for older cats, or kits with joint or arthritis issues. The soft yet sturdy inner foam helps to cushion their step, reducing stress on their bones. With four wide steps, they are easy enough for your pet to climb and, as they are quite lightweight, are portable enough to move around. As well as the styling, we also like the fact that the whole patterned cover can be removed and popped into both the washing machine and dryer, for total convenience and easy maintenance.
9. Dallas Manufacturing Home Décor Cat Steps
Key Features
Duracore inner technology
Convenient carry handle
Machine washable cover
For pets up to 150lbs
Durable, lightweight yet sturdy enough for pets up to 150 pounds, these simple yet quality pet steps are the business. Made with Duracore technology, the inner frame is made from a special cardboard configuration, so you get a strong yet comfortable set of pet steps. And as they are light, you can easily pick them up and move them around, thanks to the tote handle on the back. The cover is a soft fleece-like fabric that is comfortable to walk on and is also removable for washing. Add in a non-skid bottom and while they may not be the most attractive in our review, they step up to the job.
10. PETMAKER 3 Tier Cat Steps
Key Features
High density foam inner
Microfiber outer
Non-slip base and back
Removable, machine washable cover
Using high density foam for stability and comfort under paw, Petmaker’s three step pet stairs are a straightforward way to help your cat. Designed for small cats and kittens, these pet steps can take a cat up to 25 pounds and have nice wide steps to keep them secure. We also like how light these steps are but when in situ, have an impressive amount of traction to keep them in place. The outer soft microfiber cover comes off too, so you can pop into the washer, while the foam inner can also be spot cleaned.
Best Cat Stairs And Steps Buying Guide & FAQ
Why You Need Pet Stairs For Your Cat
Cats love to climb, whether it’s his cat tree, a wall, stairs or your drapes, as height gives them a sense of safety and a lofty vantage point to check out what’s going on. But sometimes, they may need extra help if they get a little stuck or nervous, especially if they are young, or as they age, their energy levels, as well as their joints and health, might start letting them down.
Cat stairs or steps can be a clever solution, enabling you to get a cat out of a sticky situation or to help a senior cat get to where they want to be. Cat steps can also be another addition to their ‘fun box’, giving them something to run up and down and climb on, as well as some exercise time.
Important Features to Consider When Buying Cat Steps
To ensure you get the right cat climbing stairs or steps for your pet, here are the main features to look for:
Safety: As you are encouraging your cat to climb, safety of their new pet steps is paramount as you want to avoid any tumbles. And it needs to be safe enough for young kits as well as older, less mobile or overweight cats. Look for a solid build, ample step depth and non-slip rubber feet.
Tread: As well as ensuring the stairs do not slip or move, you need to ensure your cat can get a good grip as they climb. Look for steps or pet stairs which have non-slip treads to keep your kit sure-footed.
Portability: Cats are curious creatures so it's unlikely your new cat stairs or steps will always be used in the same place. So you need to be able to easily move them from location to location in your home. Look for well-built yet lightweight cat steps that are easy to carry.
Stability: Your new cat steps also need to be stable, as wobble can unnerve your cat. And, if your cat is young or particularly agile, those pet stairs need to be able to stand firm, no matter how much your pet jumps on and off them.
Design: Yes, the steps are there to help your cat, but they'll also be on show, so need to blend into your home.
Easy to assemble: Many cat steps or stairs will need some home assembly so if you are not DIY-minded, look for easy to assemble pet products. Many cat stairs and steps offer snap-together or tool free assembly.
Maintenance: And finally, you want your cat stairs to be easy to clean. Look for wipeable surfaces or if it has a material cover, that it's removable and safe to pop into the washing machine.
How to Train a Cat to Use Stairs and Steps
You may find your cat is initially reluctant to use their new pet stairs. To get them used to using their new pet ramp, you need patience and positive reinforcement.
To train your cat to use pet stairs or steps, you need to give them time to get used to it, so let your cat check them out. You may find that your cat will quickly start exploring the steps but if they don’t, then every time your kit approaches their pet stairs, praise them as you want them to associate the stairs with a positive experience.
Once your cat starts showing an interest in the steps, encourage them. You can also add a treat to the first step, so they are enticed to find out more. Now use a treat to encourage them to climb a little higher, until they happily get to the top step. Give them a little space to work out how to come down, and once they reach the bottom, give plenty of praise and a treat as a well-earned reward.
Our Top Pick
The PupStep Folding Pet Step ramps it up as our review's best choice thanks to its durability, price and ease of use. Made from lightweight plastic with fabric treads and non-skid feet, the PupStep can be used in the home and also out on your travels. These steps for cats work with both kittens and older pets and when not in use, folds down for convenient storage.
