We tend to think of cats as natural jumpers, fearless little athletes who can scale countertops, windowsills, and towering furniture without a second thought.
But as they age, those confident leaps can turn into long pauses, low chirps for help, or heartbreaking misses in the dark. If your cat hesitates before climbing onto your bed, or can’t make the jump at all, it’s time to consider dedicated cat stairs for bed access.
Age-related issues like arthritis, hip discomfort, and muscle loss make vertical jumps painful. Even younger cats, small breeds, or kittens can struggle with today’s taller mattresses. Encouraging them to leap anyway can worsen joint stress and increase the risk of injury.
The fix is simple: give them a safe path up. But choosing the right set of stairs is where people get stuck. Flimsy steps wobble. Steep ramps intimidate timid cats. Cheap foam models collapse over time. So we analyzed real reviews and build quality to bring you the most reliable options.
Here’s our guide to the best cat stairs for bed access, so your furry friend can climb up for cuddles comfortably and safely every single night.
Contents
Expert Picks: The Top 6 Cat Stairs for High Beds
We selected these products based on stability, traction, and verified user feedback regarding durability and ease of use.
1. Best Pet Supplies Foam Pet Steps
Best Overall for Comfort
If you want to pamper your pet’s paws, these are the gold standard. Made from high-density, mattress-grade foam, these steps absorb impact rather than creating a hard surface to land on.
Why It Wins: The foam is sturdy enough to hold weight but soft enough to be gentle on arthritic joints. It features a non-slip bottom and a removable, machine-washable cover (Lambswool or Linen).
Real User Feedback: Owners rave about the stability; unlike plastic shells, the solid foam block doesn’t sound hollow or shift when a cat runs up it. The CertiPUR-US certified foam gives peace of mind regarding chemical safety.
The Downside: They are bulky and do not fold. Once you place them, they are a permanent fixture in your bedroom.
Verdict: The most comfortable cat stairs for bed access available today.
2. PetSafe CozyUp Folding Pet Steps
Best Budget & Space-Saving Option
For pet owners tight on space or budget, the PetSafe CozyUp is a classic choice. These plastic pet steps are lightweight and feature a hinged design that allows them to fold flat and slide under the bed when not in use.
Why It Wins: They are incredibly affordable and functional. The side rails give nervous cats a sense of security, preventing them from slipping off the edge. They come in two sizes (Standard and XL) to fit different bed heights.
Real User Feedback: Users love the “fold-away” feature for cleaning days. However, many recommend adding extra rubber grips to the bottom, as the hard plastic feet can slide on hardwood floors.
The Downside: They look a bit utilitarian. The plastic construction isn’t the most stylish addition to a modern bedroom.
Verdict: A practical, no-frills solution for occasional use.
3. Pet Gear Easy Step Bed Stair
Best for Wide Landings
Some cats are clumsy or simply prefer a wider path. The Pet Gear Easy Step features deep, wide landings that allow a cat to have all four paws on a step before moving to the next one.
Why It Wins: The “slope” design is a hybrid between stairs and a cat ramp, making the climb gentler than standard vertical steps. The carpet treads are removable for easy washing and snap back into place securely.
Real User Feedback: Owners of large breeds (like Maine Coons) prefer these because they don’t feel cramped. The snap-together assembly requires no tools, which is a massive plus for non-DIYers.
The Downside: The incline on each individual step can be slippery for cats with very furry paw pads.
Verdict: Excellent for large or hesitant cats who need more room.
4. MEWANG Wooden Pet Stairs (2-in-1)
Best Convertible Design
Can’t decide between stairs or a ramp? The MEWANG offers both. This beautiful wooden unit converts from a staircase into a smooth cat ramp with a quick adjustment of the frame.
Why It Wins: It is built from solid wood, making it look like high-end furniture rather than a pet accessory. The heavy construction ensures it won’t tip over, even if a cat zooms up it at full speed.
Real User Feedback: Users appreciate the versatility. If your cat’s mobility worsens, you can switch from steps to the ramp mode without buying a new product. The fabric grip is durable and provides excellent traction.
The Downside: It is heavy to move around. Also, the wood finish can be slippery on smooth floors without a rug underneath.
Verdict: The most versatile and stylish option for older cats.
5. Zinus Step Comfort Pet Stairs
Best for Interior Design
If you hate the look of plastic steps, Zinus has the answer. These stairs are designed to look like a piece of upholstered furniture, blending seamlessly with your bedroom decor.
Why It Wins: Like the Best Pet Supplies model, this uses high-density foam, but with a more structured, tailored cover. The sizes (XS to XL) allow you to match the height of your bed perfectly.
Real User Feedback: The aesthetic is the main selling point. It looks like a high-end ottoman. Users also note that the foam is firm enough that it doesn’t sink over time, even with daily use.
The Downside: The fabric cover attracts cat hair like a magnet, so have a lint roller handy.
Verdict: The best-looking cat stairs for bed usage.
6. PetSafe CozyUp Bed Ramp
Best for Severe Mobility Issues
Sometimes, even stairs are too much. For cats with severe arthritis or paralysis, a long, gradual cat ramp is the only safe option. The PetSafe CozyUp Ramp provides a gentle slope directly to the mattress.
Why It Wins: It features a heavy-duty wood frame that supports up to 120 lbs. The “cherry” or “white” finish looks professional. The carpeted surface provides the grip claws need to ascend without slipping.
Real User Feedback: This is often the “last resort” that works when stairs fail. Owners of very senior pets say it extended the quality of life for their companions significantly.
The Downside: It takes up a lot of floor space. You need a long runway alongside your bed to fit it.
Verdict: Essential for pets who cannot bend their legs to climb pet steps.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Steps
Selecting the right cat stairs for bed access depends on your specific environment. Keep these three factors in mind.
- Measure the Rise
Get a tape measure and check the distance from the floor to the top of your mattress. Most standard stairs are 20-22 inches high. If you have a pillow-top mattress that sits 30 inches high, a standard 3-step unit won’t be enough. Your cat will still have to jump the last 8 inches, defeating the purpose. Look for 4-step or 5-step models for tall beds.
- Stability vs. Portability
Foam steps are safer for clumsy pets because there are no sharp corners to bang a shin on. However, wood or hard plastic steps are generally more stable for heavy cats. If you plan to move the steps to the living room during the day, choose lightweight foam. If they stay in the bedroom, go for heavy wood.
- Tread Depth
Older cats often struggle with shallow steps. If the step is only 5 inches deep, they have to balance awkwardly. Look for stairs with a depth of at least 6-7 inches, or choose a ramp design that eliminates the “step” entirely.
Final Words
Your cat has spent years giving you comfort and company, curled at your side. Offering them a safe, gentle way to reach the bed is one of the easiest ways to support them as they age.
If you want maximum softness and stability, the Best Pet Supplies Foam Steps are the top choice. For a sleek piece of furniture that adapts as your cat’s mobility changes, the MEWANG Wooden 2-in-1 delivers unbeatable versatility. And if you’re working with a tighter budget, the PetSafe CozyUp Folding Steps provide a dependable, affordable solution.
Don’t wait for a slip or stumble to make the upgrade. Measure your mattress height, pick the set that fits your space, and give your cat safe, stress-free access to their favorite spot tonight.