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Can Kittens Climb Stairs? Early Development & Growth FAQ

Written by: Kristin Hitchcock

Last Updated on January 31, 2024 by Catster Editorial Team

scottish fold kitten in the stairs

Can Kittens Climb Stairs? Early Development & Growth FAQ

Often, kittens are too small to climb stairs easily, but it depends on the kittens and the stairs.  Carpeted stairs are easier for kittens to climb since they can use their claws to climb up. However, they can only climb a few stairs at a time, and they may get tired quickly.

Kittens between 6 and 8 weeks old can often start climbing stairs. Before then, it can be challenging for them. The easiest way to determine if your kitten can climb stairs is to put a toy or treat on a step and encourage your cat to climb it. If they struggle to climb the stairs, you may need to wait longer until they’re more coordinated and accustomed to climbing.

We recommend introducing your kitten to the stairs as early as possible. This helps them learn how to climb stairs easily and prevents them from becoming fearful. It isn’t common for cats to become scared of stairs, as many climb naturally.

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Is It Bad for Kittens to Climb Stairs?

Kittens love to climb. Therefore, it isn’t necessarily bad for them to climb stairs. They will likely be climbing just about everything, anyway. However, you shouldn’t allow the kittens to climb up the banisters or on stairs where they easily fall.

They can fall through the railings since they’re tiny, so be cautious when allowing them to play on the stairs. It’s best to let them develop better motor skills before allowing them to climb the stairs without supervision.

You can block the spaces between the banisters with cardboard or a similar barrier. Be sure that your kitten can’t climb over or under it. There’s no reason to avoid introducing your kittens to stairs, but allow them to explore with supervision.

Scottish fold kitten on wooden table
Image Credit: dien, Shutterstock

At What Age Can Kittens Manage Stairs?

Kittens can climb stairs at around a month old. However, that does not mean that all kittens can climb all stairs well at that age. Taller stairs are challenging for cats, as well as wooden or tiled stairs. Carpeted stairs are easier for cats to manage as they can get more traction. However, every kitten is different, and some may take longer to learn.

What Age Can Kittens Climb?

Most kittens learn to climb at a young age—around 3 weeks old. At this point, they come out of their box and start exploring. Kittens take a little while to gain motor skills, so they may climb and fall a lot initially. This is normal and doesn’t harm the kittens. By 4 weeks, all kittens should be able to run, climb, and play.

Kittens can handle the occasional tumble. Therefore, don’t be afraid to let them explore. Just watch for long drops, such as between banisters. On stairs, this drop is what you should be most concerned about.

kitten climbing metal stairs
Image Credit: rara1733-Shutterstock

Can a 2-Month-Old Kitten Climb Stairs?

Yes, a 2-month-old kitten can climb stairs. Often, kittens can be introduced to stairs at around 1 month. Usually, when they’re 2 months old, they’re much better at climbing steps.

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Conclusion

Kittens can climb stairs when they’re about 2 months old. However, they can be introduced to them as early as 4 weeks. Kittens need to practice climbing steps, so you’ll need to supervise them a few times to let them practice safely.

However, just because one kitten can climb stairs doesn’t mean another one can. Carpeted stairs are often easier for kittens to climb, and if you have wooden stairs, they may take longer for them to climb without slipping.


Featured Image Credit: YULIIA TSYMBALO, Shutterstock

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