The best thing you can do for the comfort of your pet when they are old, hurt, or have any medical conditions is to get them a stair. Getting a pet stair for your dogs or cats becomes necessary in addition to being aesthetically pleasing and practical. Most dogs enjoy relaxing on couches with their owners. Your pets love soft, comfortable couches just as much as you do, whether they’re used for relaxing, playing games, or just watching movies. They shouldn’t have any trouble getting on the couch when they try.
While it might be simple for some breeds to jump on the couch and start relaxing with their owners, it might be impossible for others. Because of this, the majority of pet owners rely on ramps or pet stairs to help their animals get onto the couch or bed. On that, though, not many pet owners concur. Some people think adding pet ramps or stairs is unnecessary. Nevertheless, getting a stair for your pet is crucial if it has arthritis or is an older animal.
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There are many options available in the market for pet owners to choose from as a result of this necessity. You might be unsure of which to choose from a variety of stairs made of foam, wood, and other materials. Do not be concerned; we can assist you there. This article will discuss the need for pet stairs, the factors you should take into account when making your decision, and the best options available to you. So without further ado, let’s take a look at that.
Is a pet stair really necessary?
Without a doubt, anything that makes your pets more comfortable and prevents them from injuring their joints and limbs should be purchased. And a pet stair is one of them. Pet stairs are a necessary purchase for your pets to improve their relaxing days and won’t cost you a fortune.
And your pets should always be included in this discussion. To determine if your pets can use a practical pet stair, you must consider their health. We’ve chosen five instances where a pet stair would actually be useful for a pet in order to assist you.
Aging pets
You need to treat your pets like a baby as they age and get older. They wouldn’t be as active as they once were as they aged, and they might easily get tired while performing daily tasks. You should be aware that as dogs age, their bones and joints deteriorate just like those of humans.
A quick jump or a long walk may occasionally cause them to experience cramps and pain, just like us. However, the desire to cuddle up next to you on the couch and spend time with you will always be present. So, when your senior dogs repeatedly try to join you on the couch but fail, you should realize that they need assistance.
You can’t always stay on the couch with them to assist them, though. They should be able to comfortably climb onto the couches or beds even when you aren’t home, and for that you need a pet stair. Your elderly pets can easily ascend high places with the help of a pet stair. By doing this, they can also prevent damaging their frail joints and limbs.
Dogs who have arthritis
Dogs can have severe arthritis, so if you have one of them, you know how important it is to get them assistance whenever they need to climb a ladder or go for a long walk. Dogs with arthritis experience excruciating pain in their joints when they try to carry out their daily tasks. They are unable to follow you around for a long time during games, run for extended periods, or jump on couches.
You cannot expect them to perform actions on their own because the condition hurts them. They might get hurt if you carry them for a long time because touching their joints could do so. Getting a pet stair or a ramp will make caring for a dog with arthritis easier. Your dogs won’t need your assistance every time they need to climb up or over something if there is a stairway or a ramp there.
Little dogs
As we already mentioned, some breeds may find it impossible to jump onto the couch or other high places. Due to their size and natural ability, small dogs must exert a lot of effort to do what larger breeds can do with ease.
People might find it amusing when their small dogs make an effort to climb up on the couch and get close to them. However, your dog’s physical makeup does not enjoy it at all. They must exert a lot of force on their joints to land properly when they jump up onto a couch that is 20 inches tall. They may experience severe pain in their joints and limbs as well as arthritis if they continue to do it for an extended period of time.
Make sure your small pets are comfortable and convenient when you have them by taking all reasonable measures. Get them a pet stair so they can enjoy time with you by climbing up the couch or bed.
Puppies
Puppies may have trouble climbing stairs just like small dogs do. Your puppy will struggle to jump to high places or to jump from them, and even if they succeed, there is a chance that they could sustain serious injuries. Since they are still young and developing, it is risky to have them jump from or climb up high places because of how fragile their bones are.
Get a ramp or proper stairs for your new puppy if you have one at home. Your puppies should be taught how to use the stairs or ramps, and once they are, they will find it simple to climb onto beds or couches to be with you.
Ailing or recovering animals
This situation makes it clear that a staircase is something you shouldn’t pass up when you have pets that are hurt and require your assistance to carry out their normal duties. You should think about assisting your pet with daily activities if they suffer from shoulder, leg, or joint pain, broken toenails, paw pad injuries, trauma to the elbow, slipped kneecaps, etc.
A stair would also be a useful addition if they are unable to jump on the couch because of their injury or are still healing. Giving your pet the care they need to heal after an injury is crucial as a pet owner. Even though installing a ramp or stair for them may not seem like a big deal, they will undoubtedly benefit from it.
Stairs or Ramps: Which one should I go with?
Ramps and stairs are the most common options you have for assisting your pets in getting to or from high places. While you can just pick the one you like right away, your pets can also influence your decision. It is for their comfort that you purchase a stairway or a ramp, and if your animals have trouble using either, training them will be challenging. So, whether it’s a ramp or a stairway, consider your pets’ suggestions.
While some pets may find it easier to use ramps to access beds or couches, others may find stairs to be more convenient. You can easily use pet stairs if your pets find climbing human stairs to be easy. However, you should think about purchasing ramps if they find it difficult to move with each step.
The size of the room, the portability of the stairs, and the preference of your pets also play a role. Therefore, consider all options before making a choice. Since stairs are highly portable, easier to move around on vehicles, and are simple for pets to climb to high places, we advise using them whenever possible.
Things to consider when you choose a pet stair
Once you’ve made the decision to purchase stairs, you should be aware of the features to look for. As we previously mentioned, there are a variety of pet stairs options on the market for you to choose from; however, you must pick the one that best fits your lifestyle and your dog. When purchasing a pet stair, three main factors need to be taken into account.
Material
Pet stairs are available in a variety of materials, just like couches and sofas. Wood, high-density foam, and carpeted steps are the three main materials utilized in pet stairs. Every material has unique benefits, so you should pick the one that appeals to you in each category.
- If you have large breeds of dogs, wooden steps are the most durable option because they can easily support your pets’ weight. You can choose a finish that complements your interior and add aesthetic appeal with wooden steps. The only drawback is that wooden steps are vulnerable to pet scratching and damage if they are frequently wet.
- Since they are lightweight, strong, and able to withstand small pets’ mischievous behavior, high-density foam steps are a good option for pet stairs. The high-density foam steps could be damaged if your dogs continue to toy with them because they cannot withstand wear and tear for very long.
- Additionally, carpeted steps are ideal for helping your dogs ascend onto the couch or sofa. They can function just as well as high-density foam and wood. The carpeted steps are resistant to scratches, and it shields the frame from a lot of wear and tear. Additionally, the carpeted surface can be removed for cleaning and reused.
The material you choose will be heavily influenced by your dog’s height, weight, portability, aesthetic preferences, and other factors. You can decide on something that is really good for your pets and your lifestyle after taking into account all the factors.
Size of the stairs
The height of stairs is the next important factor to take into account. The stairs shouldn’t be too narrow and should be the ideal height. Dogs dislike climbing narrow stairs because they can be uncomfortable for them. Select a stairway with good-height steps that are simple for your pets to climb and descend. When your dogs use the stairs, the steps should be able to support their weight as well. Before making a purchase, review the product description for information on height, weight, capacity, etc.
Anti-skid function
This is a feature that you should obviously consider when purchasing a pet stair. Your dogs should be able to move freely on the steps without falling off. Always choose anti-skid stairs so that your furry friends don’t fall when they climb them.
Here are a few pet stair options for you to consider
We have developed 7 options for you after extensive testing and research. See them listed below.
Pet Gear Easy Step II Cat & Dog Stairs ($32.39, Amazon)
The excellent shape and color of this lovely pet stair from Chewy will quickly catch your attention. Additionally, they are easily appropriate for heavy dogs as well as small dogs and cats. Your pets won’t have any trouble climbing the steps because they are wide and a good height. The stairs are dependable and long-lasting.
Yofit Doggy Steps ($29.99, Amazon)
The Yofit minimalist dog stair is an option if money is an issue for you. After extensive use, the plastic steps’ cover can be removed and cleaned. The stairs have an anti-slip feature and can easily withstand the actions of your pets. The disadvantages include their weight and small size, which may make them unsuitable for use in high places.
CozyUp Folding Pet Steps by PetSafe ($45.95, Amazon)
If you’re still undecided between stairs and ramps, go with this option without hesitation. Because these stairs can be folded and transformed, you can give your pets ramps or stairs as they prefer. The antiskid feature on the steps ensures that your dogs won’t slip because they are elegantly designed to support them. Small animals and animals with light weights will find this to be the best option.
Wooden pet stairs by Petsfit ($115.77 , Amazon)
Your pets will have the perfect support from this pet stair to easily climb onto your bed with you. Pets up to 150 pounds can easily climb these three steps. There is a side rail to support your pets, and the steps are wide. Additionally, your pets have a cozy hiding place underneath the unit.
CozyUp Folding Wood Pet Steps by PetSafe ($79.95 , Amazon)
This is the one for you if you prefer wooden steps over those made of other materials. This PetSafe stair will meet all of your needs and be a great option for your dogs. The stairs’ wooden steps are of excellent quality, come with a good fabric covering, and have a nonslip feature. They can also be folded, which makes it simple for you to manage the space. They can easily support dogs that weigh up to 200 pounds because they are made of wood.
Steady Paws Cat & Dog Stairs at Fur Haven ($64.99, Amazon)
This FurHaven stair can fit into your budget while also being a good option for your pets. As opposed to the typical stair design, this stair has tall poles that support the steps, making it simple for your pets to ascend. In addition, the steps are covered in plush carpeting, which gives your dogs a secure place to climb. Pet stairs are not very stable on push carpets, and some animals may find the stap spacing uncomfortable.
4 Step Carpet Tread Dog & Cat Stairs by Premier Pet Steps ($299.00 , Amazon)
If you prefer a high-end wooden finish with high-quality carpet that makes an excellent pet stair, then choose wooden stairs once more. These are extremely strong and can last for many years. When your dogs use the stairs, the stairs can easily support their heavy weight. One of its drawbacks is that it may take up a lot of space in the room due to its weight. It is still a wise choice for your pets.
Conclusion
With the seven options we’ve provided, you can pick the one that best meets your needs and the comfort of your pets. Your dogs will enjoy using a good pet stair to ascend to the couch and bed so they can spend time with you. A pet stair is a great addition for your pets and a wise investment, even if your dog is not elderly or suffers from any medical conditions.