Thirty-five centimetres is sofa height, and that is the whole case for buying the three-step version rather than the taller four. A short set of steps in front of a sofa takes up less floor, leaves less to trip over on the way to the kitchen in the dark, and a cat or a small dog will step onto it far more readily than a staircase that stands as tall as they do.

Three treads, each 10cm high and 34cm wide, on a 46 x 34cm base, built in particle board under a plush polyester cover that comes off for washing. The plush is the functional part rather than the decorative one: a small animal places its feet with much more confidence on a surface with grip and a little give than on a hard laminated step, and confidence decides whether steps get used or walked past on the way to jumping anyway.

• Overall 35H x 46L x 35Wcm
• Each step 10H x 34L x 15Wcm
• Base 46L x 34Wcm
• Particle board frame with polyester plush cover
• Removable cover, hand or machine washable
• Rated for pets under 4.5kg
• Assembly required

Two things worth knowing. The 4.5kg weight limit is also real: these are built for cats and toy breeds, not for a dog who fills the sofa once they get up there. Light grey suits a pale carpet but will show the hair of a black cat.

Who it's for: cats with stiffening back legs, chihuahuas, yorkies and other toy breeds, and anyone whose pet has started hesitating before jumping onto the sofa.