My Cat Refuses to Jump—Now What?

So my cat, who used to leap onto the fridge like a tiny panther, now just stares at it like it’s Everest. Cue the existential crisis: Is she getting old? Is she hiding pain? (Spoiler: Cats always hide pain.) Here’s what I learned after too much Googling and a mild panic attack: If your cat’s avoiding high spots, stairs are a good first step—literally. They’re compact, easy to move, and don’t eat up floor space. But if walking itself looks tough, ramps are the way to go. Steeper stairs = harder for creaky joints. Wide, shallow steps or a gentle ramp are best. Bonus points for plush, non-looping carpet and safety rails (because, yes, cats can fall off things, even with nine lives). Pro tip: Bribe them with treats to try the new setup. And if your cat’s never used stairs, don’t even bother—just get the ramp. Your future self (and your cat’s joints) will thank you. #CatCare #SeniorCats #PetTips #Pets #Cats