Cat behaviour experts reveal why cats love stairs so much

If you’ve ever found your cat sprawled across the stairs, you’ve likely wondered: why there, of all places? Cats often choose the most unexpected spots for their naps, and the stairs are no exception. This curious behaviour has more to it than meets the eye. Clinical Animal Behaviourist Daniel Warren-Cummings delves into the reasons behind your cat’s stair-sleeping habit.

Why is my cat sleeping on the stairs?

1. Natural instinct. Cats like to be up high as it helps them feel safe and gives them a good view of their surroundings. As natural hunters, their instincts drive them to look out for movement and potential prey. But as cats are also a prey species, they have an instinct to look out for potential dangers too. Stairs give cats an ideal vantage point to watch what is going on above and below them. In the wild, sleeping is a vulnerable activity for cats. They will often sleep somewhere elevated off the ground, away from any predators. Our pet cats have retained this behaviour to help them feel safe. 
2. Strategic positioning. Sitting or sleeping on the stairs can also be a clever strategic move. It’s a place where they can’t be easily ignored. Whether it’s to get your attention for food or a fuss, or to ensure they don’t miss out on family activities, the stairs offer a central location that keeps them in the loop.
3. Comfort and temperature regulation. Cats are masters at finding comfortable spots that are just the right temperature. Stairs, especially those made of wood or stone, may be cool and refreshing on a hot day. Or a sunlit stair can offer just the right amount of warmth for a cosy nap.
4. Claiming territory. Cats are territorial creatures. If you have more than one cat, they may sit or lie on the stairs to block each other from parts of the home they consider their territory. Find out how to help your cats get along. 

How to stop cats from lying on stairs

While it’s endearing to see your cat snoozing on the stairs, it can also pose a tripping hazard. Here are a few tips to ensure both your safety and your cat’s comfort.

1. Provide an alternative. Offer your cat a choice of other elevated perches around the home. You could clear some space on the top of wardrobes, shelves or windowsills. Make sure your cat can easily access them. Try adding soft and cosy cat beds or blankets to these areas to make them even more enticing. Hopefully your cat will soon start using these perches instead of the stairs. You could also get your cat a Hide & Sleep^® bed from Cats Protection. It contains a hiding space and an elevated perch to help your cat feel safe.  
2. Lure them away. If you need your cat to move off the stairs, try encouraging them away by throwing a treat or toy to the top or bottom of the steps. 

Why do cats walk in front of you on the stairs?

Some cats have a habit of appearing at inconvenient times and places. For example, at your feet when you’re walking up or down stairs. It might seem like they’re trying to trip you up, but there are a few potential reasons for this behaviour. They could be trying to get your attention, maybe for food or a fuss. Or they could be bored or wanting your company. Or maybe they’re trying to get out of your way as you’ve disrupted their sleep. Discover why cats follow you around and what you can do about it.

Why is my cat peeing on the stairs?

It can be very frustrating if your cat starts toileting in the house but not in their litter tray. There will always be a good reason for it though. They’re not being naughty. First, it’s a good idea to get them checked by a vet. The change in their toileting habits could be the result of a health issue. If they are otherwise healthy, take a look at our advice for tackling inappropriate toileting. 

Why is my cat scratching the carpet on the stairs?

Scratching is a natural behaviour for cats. It helps them to keep their claws in good condition and mark their territory so they feel safe and secure. Unfortunately a carpeted staircase is an ideal surface for cats to scratch. To them it resembles a tall, study scratching post or cat tree they can dig their claws into. 

The best way to protect your carpet from your cat’s claws is to provide them with a suitable alternative scratching surface. If your cat likes to scratch horizontally, provide them with a horizontal cardboard scratching mat near to the staircase. If they like to scratch vertically, provide a tall, study scratching post instead. Temporarily cover the stair carpet with plastic sheeting while your cat gets used to using their new scratching post or mat. Find out more about cat scratching.

If your cat likes to lie on their side and scratch the stairs, it could be that they are ‘bunny kicking’. This is a common technique that cats use when hunting. Once they have caught their prey, they often grab it in their front paws and kick it with their back legs. Try providing your cat with a cat kicker toy to bunny kick, so they don’t shred the stair carpet.