All categories
Business & Offices
Electronics & Media
Fashion & Accessories
Groceries & Essentials
Health & Personal Care
Home & Living
Kids & Family
Sports & Outdoors
Search in ZoneOffer
Loading...
If your dog or cat hesitates before jumping onto the sofa, bed, or into the car, a pet ramp or set of steps can change daily life for both of you. Think of a ramp as a gentle bridge that removes strain and fear, especially for older pets or animals recovering from surgery. In the UK market today you'll find everything from compact foam steps to heavy-duty telescopic ramps — all designed to protect joints and give pets independence.
Not every furry friend needs a ramp, but if your pet is small, elderly, overweight, or has mobility problems, a ramp becomes a lifesaver. Puppies and kittens learning to navigate furniture, senior animals with arthritis, and medium or large breeds recovering from joint surgery all benefit. Even active dogs can use a ramp for safe car access, especially if their owners are worried about slipping or awkward leaps.
Pet steps and ramps come in several styles, each suited to different situations and pets. Picking the right type boils down to where you'll use it and how portable or sturdy you need the product to be.
Foldable ramps are popular for pet owners who want a compromise between portability and stability. These ramps often fold in half for storage and can span heights of 20 to 36 inches or more. They’re great for tailgating, the boot of a car, or at the foot of a bed. If you travel often or have limited storage space, a foldable ramp is like a Swiss Army knife — practical and compact.
Telescopic ramps slide out and lock at different lengths, offering flexibility for varying heights. They’re typically made from aluminum and can support large dogs weighing 100 to 300 pounds or more. Because they pack down small, telescopic ramps are often the top choice for those with limited boot space who still need a strong, non-slip surface.
Foam steps are soft, lightweight, and usually covered with carpet or faux-sherpa for traction. They’re ideal for indoor use — think sofas and beds — and are easy on tender paws. The trade-off is durability: foam steps are not meant for outdoor use or for supporting very heavy dogs. But for small breeds or senior cats, they feel like walking up a comfy staircase.
Car ramps are designed specifically to help pets enter and exit cars without jumping. They vary from gentle incline models for low cars to longer ramps for SUVs. Many feature rubberized surfaces and side rails to guide animals safely. If you drive frequently with your pet, a car ramp protects their hips and your back.
Stair-style steps come in two to four-step configurations and are useful where a small height must be overcome, such as reaching a couch or the bottom of a bed. They are typically very stable and can be made from wood, plastic, or foam. For pets who prefer a more natural stepping motion, stairs often feel less intimidating than a long ramp.
When shopping, check the ramp’s weight capacity, surface traction, angle of incline, and portability. You don’t want a slippery ramp or one that flexes under your pet. Look for non-slip coatings, secure locking mechanisms, and raised edges that prevent paws from slipping off the side. A good rule of thumb: the gentler the incline, the easier it will be for an arthritic or anxious pet to use the ramp confidently.
Measure the height you need your pet to reach and the available length you can place the ramp. For a gentle incline, aim for a slope no steeper than 18 to 30 degrees. Practically, that often means a ramp length between 48 and 72 inches for car access, and 24 to 36 inches for sofa height. For weight, check the stated capacity — many aluminum ramps support 200 to 300 lbs, while foam steps may hold 30 to 80 lbs. Always choose a model that exceeds your pet’s weight to ensure longevity.
The UK market offers a wide selection of retailers, from specialist pet shops to general marketplaces. Here’s a guide to stores where you can find pet ramps, along with what they typically stock and the pros of shopping there.
Pets at Home is a go-to for pet owners across the UK, with a broad range of ramps and steps. Expect foam stairs for indoor use, foldable ramps for travel, and branded products from companies like PetSafe. They often offer in-store advice so you can see materials and feel stability before buying.
Argos tends to carry budget-friendly options and mid-range models, including foldable and telescopic ramps. They’re handy if you want fast collection or same-day shopping, and their selection is suitable for owners who need a practical ramp without premium pricing.
John Lewis stocks stylish and well-designed steps and ramps, often with attention to finish and home-friendly aesthetics. If you care about how the ramp looks in your sitting room as much as function, John Lewis can be a good place to browse higher-end or designer pet steps.
Amazon offers the widest variety — from budget foam steps to heavy-duty aluminum ramps. The marketplace format means you can read dozens of user reviews, compare brands, and find models like telescopic ramps from PawHut or multi-step stair units from Scruffs. Delivery options and return convenience make it a flexible choice.
Wayfair is strong on home-style pet furniture, including stairs that blend with couches and beds. Their filters help you narrow down by size, material, and price, and they often list expected dimensions in inches so you can plan accurately for your space.
Pets Corner focuses on animal welfare and pet health, so you’ll find ramps geared toward mobility and comfort. Their staff can advise on what’s best for elderly pets or animals recovering from surgery, and their product range includes specialist rehab ramps and supportive steps.
For bargain hunters or those seeking a specific brand, eBay offers new and used pet ramps. Be mindful of seller ratings and product descriptions when buying second-hand, and always check measurements to ensure the ramp fits your needs in inches and feet.
Brand reputation matters when it comes to safety and durability. Some brands to look out for in the UK include PetSafe, PawHut, Scruffs, Trixie, and Yaheetech. PetSafe and PawHut are often associated with sturdy, high-capacity ramps, while Scruffs and Trixie make comfortable indoor steps. Yaheetech tends to offer affordable options with functional designs.
Known for innovation, PetSafe makes foldable and telescopic ramps with non-slip surfaces and robust weight ratings. Their products are often tested to support large breeds and are popular for car use and household access.
PawHut offers a variety of sizes and types, including long ramps for SUVs and more compact steps for couches. Scruffs focuses on comfort and indoor aesthetics, with soft-covered foam steps that feel like a cushioned staircase for smaller dogs and cats.
To reduce stress on your pet’s joints, a gradual slope is key. The ideal angle depends on the animal’s mobility: younger, fit dogs can handle steeper inclines, while senior or injured pets need a gentler approach. Convert height into a comfortable ramp length — for example, if the seat to ground height is 20 inches, a ramp around 60 inches long creates a mild slope. When in doubt, longer is usually safer; think of it as trading a steeper hill for a gentle driveway.
Introducing a ramp can be like teaching a puppy to walk on a lead — patience and positive reinforcement win the day. Start with the ramp flat on the ground so your pet can sniff and explore. Use treats, praise, and short practice sessions to build confidence. Gradually raise one end a little at a time, rewarding each step forward. Keep sessions short and upbeat so your pet associates the ramp with good things.
Routine maintenance keeps ramps safe for years. Wipe down surfaces to remove dirt and hair, check non-slip pads for wear, and ensure locking mechanisms remain secure. If your ramp has rubber feet, make sure they’re not worn smooth; replacing them prevents slipping on hardwood or tiled floors. Treat the ramp like any piece of household equipment — a quick weekly check can prevent accidents down the line.
If you’re on a budget, you’ll find foam steps and entry-level foldable ramps from about £20 to £40. Mid-range models, including better-built foldable or short telescopic ramps, can run from £40 to £100. Premium aluminum telescopic ramps and long car ramps tend to cost £100 and up, especially for heavy-duty, high-weight-capacity models. Spending a bit more usually buys durability, a longer usable life, and better surfaces that protect paws and joints.
One common error is underestimating the ramp's weight capacity — always choose a ramp rated above your pet’s current weight. Another mistake is picking a ramp that’s too steep because a tight space restricts length; consider rearranging a little to fit a longer ramp. Finally, don’t skimp on traction. A slick surface can make even a confident dog hesitate, turning the ramp from a help into a hazard.
Measure twice before purchasing, and think about where you’ll store the ramp when it's not in use. If you travel frequently, prioritize compactness and weight; if the ramp will be in the living room permanently, style and carpeted surfaces might matter more. Read customer reviews focusing on durability and real-world use, and aim for a model that balances comfort, safety, and convenience.
Pet steps and ramps are practical investments that boost your pet's quality of life, protect joints, and make daily routines easier. Whether you pick a lightweight foam staircase for indoor comfort, a foldable ramp for travel, or a long aluminum ramp for car access, the key is matching the product to your pet’s size, weight, and mobility needs. Shop around UK retailers like Pets at Home, Argos, John Lewis, Amazon UK, Wayfair, Pets Corner, and eBay to compare options, read reviews, and find the right fit. With the right ramp and a little training, your pet will regain confidence and independence — one gentle step at a time.
| Pet Steps & Ramps | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Fleece Covered Pet Steps | £ 19,99 | |
| Folding Heavy Duty Pet Ramp | £ 67,99 |
