Follow Your Vet’s Activity Restrictions First

This guide is about setting up your home, not medical advice. Activity limits, medication schedules, and recovery timelines vary a lot by procedure — always go by what your vet actually told you, not a general guide.

Remove the Jumps and Stairs From Their Routine

Most post-surgery setbacks happen from a single bad jump or awkward stair climb. A ramp at the bed, couch, and car removes the temptation entirely, and a baby gate at the top or bottom of any stairs takes the decision out of your pet’s paws while they heal.

Create a Calm, Contained Recovery Space

• A playpen or gated-off area, away from other pets and busy foot traffic
• Non-slip flooring or rugs along the path to food, water, and the door
• Food and water within easy, low-effort reach — no stretching or climbing to get to it
• An orthopedic bed that doesn’t require climbing in or out at height

Easing Back Into Normal Movement

Once your vet clears the next stage of recovery, reintroduce ramps and stairs on your pet’s own terms rather than rushing back to the old routine. Keep walks short and calm at first, and let their energy — not the calendar — set the pace.