Enter the vertical rise from the lower starting point to the window or balcony. We calculate a suitable length at 40–45° to the horizontal and the space needed in front of the wall.
Example: 200 cm or 2 m. Measure vertically, not along the ladder.
Choose matching wood finishes and stain options. Discuss additional mounting and support with us before assembly.
Personal advice – include your calculation
The calculation describes a straight connection between the starting and finishing points. Also check the fixings, transitions and available space. We recommend wood stain for outdoor cat ladders.
Cat ladder calculator: calculate length and distance from the wall
Use the MediKratz cat ladder calculator to calculate the ladder length and distance from the wall for a 40–45° angle to the horizontal, using the vertical rise. Compare our standard lengths or plan a 479 cm ladder with 90 cm extensions. Send your calculation directly to us with a personal enquiry.
Two measurements matter for a cat ladder: the vertical rise to the destination and the space in front of the lower starting point. The ladder length is the diagonal distance between the two points; it is not the height of your window or balcony.
Measure height and distance correctly
Measure vertically from the lower starting level to the planned upper transition.
Measure the horizontal distance between the wall and the lower starting point.
Allow space for mounting and accessible transitions at the top and bottom.
For a straight connection: ladder length = √(height² + distance²). Use the same unit for both measurements. The calculation describes the geometry; mounting and installation must also suit the location.
Example: a 2 metre vertical rise
With a 2 m rise and approximately 2.24 m horizontal distance, the diagonal length is about 3 m. A 298 cm ladder at a 2 m rise has an angle of approximately 42° and geometrically requires about 2.21 m distance. A 208 cm ladder at the same rise would be much steeper at approximately 74°. These figures are for planning and do not constitute general approval for installation.
Which MediKratz ladder fits?
Our standard cat ladders are available in 120, 208, 298, 388 and 479 cm. Compare your planned route with the available lengths. Plan the route around your cat’s mobility and avoid transitions that are difficult to reach.
Explore our wooden cat ladders, such as the 298 cm cat ladder. An existing ladder can only be extended with a compatible element and suitable mounting; discuss compatibility with us in advance.
Natural, flame-treated or with wood stain?
Depending on the model, you can select natural or flame-treated wood, with or without wood stain. We recommend the stained finish for outdoor use. Read more in our guide to wood finishes and stain.
Personal planning by the two of us
As a husband-and-wife team, we design and make our own cat furniture ourselves. Send us a photo, the vertical rise and available distance through Contact & advice. Together, we will discuss a suitable variant.
Cat ladder calculator FAQs
How do I calculate cat ladder length from the height?
For a specified angle: ladder length = height ÷ sin(angle). At 40–45°, the length is approximately 1.41 to 1.56 times the vertical rise. The calculator compares this range with our available lengths.
Which cat ladder fits a 2 metre rise?
At a 2 m vertical rise, the 298 cm cat ladder gives an angle of approximately 42.2°. The horizontal distance from the lower starting point to the wall is approximately 2.21 m. A 208 cm ladder at the same height would be much steeper at approximately 74.1°.
How much distance from the wall does a cat ladder need?
The distance depends on the height and ladder length: distance from wall = √(ladder length² − height²). At 40–45°, the horizontal distance is approximately 1.00 to 1.19 times the height. Allow additional space for mounting and transitions.
How do I extend a cat ladder beyond 479 cm?
Our 479 cm ladder can be combined with compatible 90 cm extensions for the 388/479 system. At a 4 m rise, 479 cm plus one 90 cm element gives a total length of 569 cm, an angle of approximately 44.7° and about 4.05 m distance from the wall. The calculator also determines the number of elements needed for longer combinations. Discuss additional support and mounting with us.
Does the calculated length approve the installation?
The calculation describes the geometry of a straight route. The wall surface, fixings, transitions and your cat’s mobility must suit the installation. Use the enquiry form in the calculator to send us your calculation and requests for personal planning.
Step by step to the right ladder
This tour shows you exactly where to plan the height, length and variant.
Questions about your cat ladder?
We offer personal advice. The height, recommended length, angle, distance from the wall and any extensions are prepared in a message.
