Last updated Jun 21, 2024
Mallory Crusta / Cats.com
Traveling with a cat isn’t easy—but the right carrier can make it less daunting. From multiple entrances and breathable materials to safety features like tethers and locking zippers, the best cat carrier can help minimize the stress of getting your cat from point A to point B.
However, with so many options on the market, choosing a cat carrier that meets your needs can be confusing. To that end, we’ve researched and tested some of the top models with our own cats, bringing you these 12 recommendations. This guide will steer you in the right direction and includes carriers that meet various needs, whether you’re going to the vet or embarking on a cross-country adventure.
At a Glance
We spent hours researching the cat carrier market to learn what makes for a safe and convenient cat carrier. In the comparison table below, you’ll find a quick overview of our top picks including some highlights of our favorite features. We’ll go into greater depth about each product later in the article.
Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Pet Carrier
- Adaptable size for varied airline size restrictions
- Compressible for convenient storage
- Approved for car safety
Sherpa Travel Original Deluxe Airline Approved Pet Carrier
- Meets most major airline requirements
- Covered by Sherpa’s Guaranteed On Board program
- Comes in small, medium, and large sizes for cats up to 22 lbs
Petmate Two Door Top Load Pet Kennel
- Securely-latching steel top and front doors make loading and unloading your cat simple
- Comes in two sizes to accommodate cats up to 20lbs
- Approved for airline cargo transport
Petsfit Double Sided Expandable Dog & Cat Carrier
- Appropriate for traveling on most airlines
- Expands for maximum comfort
- Collapsible for easy storage
SportPet Designs Foldable Travel Cat Carrier
- A great value buy
- Collapsible for easy storage
- Excellent breathability
Pet Magasin Hard Cover Collapsible Cat Carrier
- Removable zippered lid for easy access
- Opens from both the top and front
- Large size, fits most cats up to 18 pounds
SturdiBag XL Pet Travel Carrier
- Designed to fit under the seats in most airlines
- Available in fourteen colors
- Smart design and rugged construction
Mr. Peanut's Airline Approved Soft-Sided Small Dog & Cat Carrier
- Designed for use on most airliners
- Lockable zipper clasp for security
- Multiple storage pockets
Petseek Large Cat Carrier
- Optional privacy flaps
- Multiple entrances
- Collapses for compact storage
Petsfit Comfort Cat Carrier Backpack
- Padded back and shoulder straps
- Folds down flat for easy storage
- Safety tether inside for security
Top Picks Explained
How We Chose Our Top Picks?
To begin our search for the best cat carriers, we reviewed the results of the Center for Pet Safety’s 2015 Carrier Study. In partnership with Subaru of America, the Center for Pet Safety conducted a test of the top pet carriers on the market to determine their safety.
Here are the top three goals of this study:
- To independently evaluate the current-state travel carrier products and carrier connection products that claim “testing,” “crash testing,” or “crash protection.”
- To examine the safety, structural integrity, and crashworthiness of carriers where the manufacturer makes no clams of “testing,” “crash testing,” or “crash protection.”
- To determine the top performing carrier brands.
To complete this study, the Center for Pet Safety tested eight different pet carriers from popular brands like Sleepypod, PetMate, and Kurgo. We used the results of this study to get an idea of what features and materials to look for in a safe and secure cat carrier for car travel.
We also spent time researching in-cabin requirements for airline travel with pets as well as the safety of traveling with your pet stored in the cargo hold.
Note: In conducting our initial research, we’ve determined that traveling with your cat in-cabin is significantly safer than storing your cat in the cargo hold. Fortunately, most cats are small enough to meet in-cabin requirements for air travel.
Now that you have a better idea what kind of testing and research we completed to write this review, let’s jump into the details.
Types of Cat Carriers
Whether you’re traveling with your cat or transporting your cat during a move, it’s essential to have a quality cat carrier. Before you start shopping for a cat carrier, however, it’s important to know what’s out there. Here’s what you need to know about the different types of cat carriers on the market.
Hard Plastic Carriers
Hard plastic carriers appeal to casual users who pop their cat into the carrier once a year or less. They’re convenient, easy to handle, and secure. Unlike some soft carriers that can’t hold up to clawing, it’s virtually impossible for a cat to break out of a hard carrier.
Hard carriers are a good choice for those who want maximum ease-of-use. If your cat has a tendency to get carsick or has anxiety-induced accidents, you’ll appreciate that hard carriers are easy to clean. You can spray them out with a hose and let them dry in the sun.
Because they are large and don’t compress underneath the seat, hard carriers aren’t the best choice for airline transport. They tend to shatter during pet carrier crash tests, so if you’re concerned about safety or going for longer, more frequent car trips, soft carriers are a better choice.
We’ll talk about that more in the next section.
Soft Carriers
Compared to hard carriers, soft cat carrier bags are a better choice for cats who are always on-the-go or traveling long distances. Plane travelers will appreciate that soft carriers can slide under the seat as carry-on luggage, and car travelers will like that soft cat carriers score better in Center for Pet Safety crash testing.
If your cat is an unhappy traveler, be aware that soft carriers are harder to clean out than hard ones. They’re also easier for cats to escape from. Ambitious cats can claw their way through mesh windows or even unzip the doors on their own.
Roller Carriers and Backpacks
Cat carriers with wheels are perfect for people who like the ease of dragging a roller suitcase. These carriers are typically built with plenty of storage space for cat care essentials and have soft, comfortable interiors. The main drawback of a roller carrier is the fact that some cats are scared by the sound of wheels rolling over the ground, especially on uneven surfaces.
Some roller carriers convert into backpacks, which allows you to easily transition between activities and different terrain.
While usually not designed for airline or automotive use, backpack cat carriers are ideal for people who want to go for walks and hikes with their cat. The pack is a refuge in the case of a wildlife or dog encounter and gives your cat a place to rest their legs.
Choosing the Best Cat Carrier
The Best Cat Carriers Are Right for the Job
Before you choose a cat carrier, ask yourself a few questions about the places it will go.
Are you going on a trip by plane? Crossing the country in a car? Are you looking for disposable cardboard cat carriers for temporary rescue use, or do you just need a basic carrier that will get your cat to the veterinarian and back a few times a year?
Defining your needs will help you identify the best carrier for your situation.
Car Travel
People often think of their cat’s carrier like a child’s car seat, assuming because the carrier is designed and approved for use in an automotive vehicle, it will keep their cat from flying through the windshield if they get into a wreck. Unfortunately, this assumption is wrong.
First of all, most carriers aren’t tested by an independent organization.
As revealed by the Center for Pet Safety’s 2015 crash testing of several pet carriers, most “car-ready” carriers will not protect your cat in the case of a crash. In fact, most plastic crates bust into shards on impact, launching broken pieces of plastic and metal parts across the car. These could injure all occupants of the vehicle.
If you’re traveling with your cat in a car, choose a crash-tested and CPS-certified carrier if possible. There are only a few crash-tested models on the market, and they’re all expensive.
If you can’t get one of these premium carriers, do your best to secure your cat’s carrier and position it safely in your vehicle. According to Lindsey A. Wolko, founder of the Center for Pet Safety, the safest place for your cat in the car is on the floor behind the front seat.
Alternatively, you can use a seatbelt to strap the carrier in place on one of the back seats. While this will help you out if there’s an abrupt stop at low speeds, most carrier straps will snap if there’s a high-speed collision.
Air Travel
You may be aware of the risks of traveling with your pet in the plane’s cargo hold. Fortunately, feline travelers are small enough to qualify as carry-on luggage and can slide under the seat in front of you. When traveling with your cat by plane, your challenge is to find a carrier that fits in this space.
Soft carriers are best for airline travel because they’re flexible enough to crumple down slightly to accommodate the height of the seat ahead of you. Some cat carriers are marketed as “airline approved”, but this term isn’t necessarily a free pass to in-cabin transport.
The term usually just means that the carrier can contain moisture. If your cat has to “go” during the flight, it won’t leak onto the floor of the plane.
A better way to ensure that the carrier is the right size is to compare its dimensions to your airline’s under-seat space and maximum sizes for in-cabin carriers. Using US airlines as a guide, the average under-seat dimensions are 17” x 11” x 9”, but this will vary by airline and your seat on the plane.
Qualities of a Great Carrier
- They’re easy to clean – Plastic carriers should have smooth interior surfaces that won’t collect grime over time and are easy to wipe out. Soft carriers should have machine-washable removable padding and the body should stand up to at least a wet rag and soap.
- They’re strong and durable – The best cat carriers have sturdy floors that won’t sag under your cat’s weight. In addition to sturdy bottoms, your cat’s carrier should be constructed from tough materials and won’t rip or unravel. Look for windows made from rubberized mesh rather than fabric. It’s stronger and can handle a little claw action.
- They’re easy to get your cat in and out of – It shouldn’t be difficult to slip your cat into the carrier and help them get out once you reach your destination. Note that many veterinarians prefer to handle their patients while still in the carrier. Multiple entryways, top entry designs, and zip-off walls make this process easier.
- They’re the right size for your cat – The carrier should be relatively snug and secure and shouldn’t let your cat slosh around during transport. At the same time, your cat should have 3 to 4 inches of space on all sides so they can stand up and turn around without crouching and contortion.
The Best Rated Cat Carriers Reviewed
Here are our picks for the best cat carriers on the market.
Our top choice is a soft cat carrier that’s airline approved and crash-tested for car safety.
#1 Best for Car Travel/Best Overall: Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Pet Carrier
- Construction: Nylon exterior with washable plush bedding
- Size Options: One size
- Weight Capacity: Up to 18 lbs
- Ideal Use: Travel
- Notable Features: Compressible for in-cabin travel
- Appropriate for Plane Travel: Yes
- Price: $184.95
The Sleepypod Air Carrier takes our first spot for its versatility and solid construction. This carrier feels rugged and long-lasting, and maintains its shape without collapsing. For this review, I was only able to test it for about a month, but I’m confident the Sleepypod would hold up to a lot of wear and tear.
This soft cat carrier has an elegant design, and it effortlessly transitions from airport to interstate. At nearly $200, it’s a little expensive for occasional transport, but the features and quality design make this carrier worth the price for cats that travel.
If you’re traveling long distances with your cat in a car, a crash-tested and CPS-certified carrier is your safest option. This Sleepypod carrier is one of the only models that’s been crash-tested and approved by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS). The Sleepypod has straps on both sides, allowing you to wrap a seatbelt all the way around the carrier. The carrier’s internal safety tether attaches to your cat’s harness and helps to keep them secure within the carrier.
Airline size restrictions vary, so a cat carrier that meets requirements on one airline might be turned away on another flight. The Sleepypod, which is 22 inches long, can be compressed to 16 to 19 inches long simply by folding up the sides of the carrier. When boarding, you’ll press in the ends until the carrier is the right size for your space.
The Sleepypod Air has two large windows and a removable privacy panel. Additionally, it includes large zipper pockets on both sides and the option to pair it with an electrically powered warming pad.
The Sleepypod Air fits cats weighing up to 18 pounds. It’s available in six colors: charcoal gray, olive green, blush, robin egg blue, and orange dream.
Pros:
- Crash-tested and certified by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS)
- Compressible for varied airline size restrictions
- Comes with a privacy shield you can slip in
- Has a padded shoulder strap
- Can be folded down for easy storage
Cons
- Might be too expensive for some budgets
- Limited window space means that you might have difficulty seeing your cat
#2 Best for Air Travel: Sherpa Travel Original Deluxe Airline Approved Pet Carrier
- Construction: Nylon exterior with washable plush bedding
- Size Options: Medium or large
- Weight Capacity: Up to 22 lbs
- Ideal Use: Travel
- Notable Features: Guaranteed on board
- Appropriate for Plane Travel: Yes
- Price: $71.00
Some cat carriers are marketed as “airline approved,” but this term isn’t necessarily a free pass to in-cabin transport. The term usually just means that the carrier can contain moisture. If your cat eliminates during the flight, it won’t leak onto the floor of the plane.
A better way to ensure that the carrier is the right size is to compare its dimensions to your airline’s under-seat space and maximum sizes for in-cabin carriers.
Soft carriers like the Sherpa Deluxe Carrier are best for airline travel because they’re flexible enough to crumple down slightly to accommodate the height of the seat ahead of you.
This pet carrier is also covered by Sherpa’s Guaranteed On Board program. To minimize the risk of being denied boarding, you can fill out a form online before your trip. If something goes wrong and your cat is denied permission to board, Sherpa will reimburse your flight and pet fee.
A patented spring wire frame allows you to push the rear end of the carrier down if needed. This helps the carrier to conform to varied under-seat space restrictions.
The Sherpa Deluxe has both top and side entry for easy access, mesh panels on the front and sides for ventilation and visibility, and adjustable straps for carrying over the shoulder or by hand. It comes with a machine-washable faux lambskin liner for comfort. And the base is supported by a wooden stability board encased in a waterproof liner.
Once you’ve reached your destination, you can thread a seatbelt through Sherpa’s seat belt strap for increased security. Note that the carrier hasn’t been approved for car safety by any independent organization and might not be the safest choice for car travel.
Pros:
- Meets most major airline requirements
- Covered by Sherpa’s Guaranteed On Board program
- Comes in small, medium, and large sizes for cats up to 22 pounds
- Removable, machine-washable inner padding
Cons
- Some reviewers say that Sherpa’s quality has declined over the years and that today’s carriers are prone to zipper malfunctions, weak mesh, and ripped seams
- Has a D-ring, but no tether
#3 Best Hard Carrier: Petmate Two Door Top Load Pet Kennel
- Construction: Plastic and steel
- Size Options: 19″ or 24″
- Weight Capacity: Up to 20 pounds
- Ideal Use: Casual
- Notable Features: Top and front entry
- Appropriate for Plane Travel: Cargo hold only
- Price: $34.97
Although they’re not ideal for in-cabin plane travel, hard carriers do have their place. They’re resistant to clawing and scratching and are easier to clean, making them a convenient option for cargo travel, casual travel, or those who only need a carrier for the occasional vet visit.
This Petmate kennel is a well-designed carrier perfect for securely transporting your cat to the vet’s office. It has two entrances, allowing your cat to enter through the front door or through the roof. The top door entryway is also large enough for you to pass both hands through, allowing you to pet your cat during travel. The doors are easy to open with squeeze latches.
Unlike some carriers that are held together with plastic latches, this one screws together with wing nuts and bolts for increased durability and security. I found it easy to put together and appreciated that no tools were required.
This carrier isn’t crash-tested or approved for use in the car, but the company recommends passing a seatbelt through the handle for added security. It’s not a good choice for flying in-cabin, though it’s approved for use in a plane’s cargo hold.
Pros:
- Secure steel top and front doors make loading and unloading your cat simple
- Easy-to-clean plastic
- Comes in two sizes to accommodate cats up to 20 pounds
- Approved for airline cargo transport
Cons
- Won’t qualify for in-cabin transport on most airlines
- Has not been crash-tested and might not be the safest choice for car rides, as plastic tends to shatter on impact
- No attachments to secure kennel in car
#4 Best Expandable: Petsfit Double Sided Expandable Dog & Cat Carrier
- Construction: Canvas and mesh exterior, fleece mat
- Size Options: Medium or large
- Weight Capacity: Large can accommodate up to 20 pounds
- Ideal Use: Travel
- Notable Features: Expandable and collapsible
- Appropriate for Plane Travel: Yes
- Price: $56.99
In a previous version of this article, we featured an earlier Petsfit model. This upgraded carrier made the cut because it features not one, but two expandable compartments for extra room to lounge.
This carrier excels in flexibility. The small and medium sizes should meet the under-seat requirements on most airlines (though the large might not, so be sure to check ahead of time). There are also multiple ways to carry the Petsfit, and it collapses for convenient storage.
With mesh windows all around, this carrier provides plenty of ventilation and allows your cat to view their surroundings. I liked the side pocket for storage, but I would prefer it had a zipper to keep items from falling out.
Pros
- Extended space allows cats to sprawl out and relax
- Roomy and breathable
- Collapses for easy storage
- Multiple ways to carry
- The trolly strap lets you secure it to luggage
Cons
- No zipper on side pocket
#5 Best Budget Cat Carrier: SportPet Designs Foldable Travel Cat Carrier
- Construction: Impact-resistant polypropylene
- Size Options: One size
- Weight Capacity: 25 pounds
- Ideal Use: Casual
- Notable Features: Wide side-opening gate; collapses for easy storage
- Appropriate for Plane Travel: No
- Price: $12.99
This unique carrier has a lot of fans who gush over its features—and it didn’t let us down. Unlike a standard hard kennel that takes up a lot of space, the SportPet carrier can be folded down and tucked away when not in use.
One impressive design feature is the carrier’s wide side opening, which allows cats to enter comfortably and offers vets easy access. Plus, the wide opening makes cleanup easier.
I found the carrier easy to pop open and break down: just press the tabs on the side, and it pops into place. The SportPet can accommodate larger cats weighing up to 25 pounds and includes a waterproof bed that’s machine-washable and dryer-safe.
The carrier’s angled sides made it a little easier to carry than the hard-sided PetMate. However, one potential downside is that since it’s collapsible, the carrier’s sides are flexible and might not hold up to particularly rambunctious cats on a mission to escape (though this is just conjecture).
Pros:
- Wide side entry allows for easy access
- Portable and collapsible
- Fits larger cats
Cons
- No storage
Only one way to carry
#6 Best Top-Entry: Pet Magasin Hard Cover Collapsible Cat Carrier
- Construction: Sturdy fabric exterior with fleece liner
- Size Options: One size
- Weight Capacity: Up to 18 lbs
- Ideal Use: Casual
- Notable Features:Top comes off for easy access
- Appropriate for Plane Travel: No
- Price: $53.74
Top-loading cat carriers are all about making it easy for your cat to enter and easy for you to reach them once they’re in it.
The Pet Magasin has an unexpected pod shape with a mesh front door, ventilated body, and round lid that zips all the way open for easy entry. The large top zip door gives you full access to the occupants once they’re all packed up.
The Pet Magasin carrier has a sturdy bottom for effective transport and a small handle on top. It doesn’t have a shoulder strap, which is a disadvantage when compared to the typical soft carrier. Even so, I found it lightweight and comfortable to carry.
This carrier unzips completely and can be folded into an easy-to-store flat disk shape.
Pros:
- A removable “lid” means easy access
- Opens from both the top and front
- Good ventilation
- Secure locking zippers
- Strong, stable base
Cons
- Connecting the top and bottom pieces was a bit finicky
- No storage
- No shoulder strap
#7 Best for Large Cats: SturdiBag XL Pet Travel Carrier
- Construction: Durable 600 denier polyester exterior with fleece liner
- Size Options: One size
- Weight Capacity: Up to 40 pounds
- Ideal Use: Casual
- Notable Features: Ample space for bigger cats
- Appropriate for Plane Travel: Smaller sizes, yes; extra-large size, no
- Price: Out of stock
As you’ll see from Mallory’s video above, the SturdiBag was our top pick for nervous cats in a previous version of this article. While it certainly has features that suit anxious feline travelers, we also think its generous size and durability make it a fine choice for larger cats.
My cat Floyd is a hefty 17 pounds, and he found the SturdiBag plenty roomy. I tested the extra-large size, which was by far the largest carrier I tested. Even after testing, Floyd voluntarily lounged in the SturdiBag.
The carrier’s body is made from 600 denier polyester, a rugged material similar to lightweight ballistic nylon. Though it isn’t guaranteed to handle every cat, it should be able to put up with a lot of harassment. The bag is both breathable and private, featuring tough plastic mesh windows and zip-up privacy covers.
In addition to strong construction, the SturdiBag has a few features that can help to keep your cat comfortable and safe. It has multiple entrances, allowing you to find the entry route that works for your cat. A harness tether helps to keep your cat inside even when the doors open. And in case your cat is determined to attempt a breakaway, the carrier features zipper locks for an additional layer of security.
Pros
- This carrier is huge: the extra large can carry pets up to 40 pounds!
- Smart design and rugged construction help to prevent escapes
- Achieves a good balance of privacy and breathability
- A sturdy platform base lends it structure and balance
- Includes seatbelt straps and tether
Cons
- Doesn’t have a side strap for attaching to the handle of roller luggage
- Says it comes with side pockets, but mine did not have any
- At over $120, this is one of the more expensive cat carriers you can buy
#8 Best for Small Cats: Mr. Peanut’s Airline-Approved Soft-Sided Pet Carrierr
- Construction: Nylon with fleece mat
- Size Options: One size
- Weight Capacity: Up to 15 pounds
- Ideal Use: Travel
- Notable Features: Lightweight and highly breathable
- Appropriate for Plane Travel: Yes
- Price: $79.00
Hate feeling weighed down by a bulky carrier but don’t want to sacrifice sturdiness and reliability? You might prefer a compact carrier like Mr. Peanut’s, which weighs just 2.7 pounds.
I quite liked the look of this carrier. It has a sophisticated design that’s more appealing than most. Generous mesh window space is combined with military-grade nylon body construction for a mix of breathability, lightness, and strength.
The carrier has a fully ventilated roof that compresses down to fit under the seat of most airlines. Some reviewers, however, say that it didn’t comply with the under-seat requirements on their flight, so check your airline’s policies before taking this carrier into the airport.
The carrier has several features to make travel easier. A padded shoulder strap and handles give you multiple ways to carry your cat around, while several storage pockets give you plenty of space for treats and other essentials. There’s also a name tag, trolly tether, safety tether, and seatbelt straps.
Though it is built for durability, the company cautions buyers to remember that vigorous scratchers and biters might be able to break through the window mesh.
Pros
- A lightweight, breezy carrier that won’t weigh you down
- Designed for use on most airliners
- Lockable zipper clasp for security
- Multiple storage pockets
- Added bonus: this came with a free grooming glove and collapsible water bowl
Cons
- Not appropriate for larger cats weighing more than 15 pounds
#9 Best for Nervous Cats: Petseek Large Cat Carrier
- Construction: Durable Oxford fabric, mesh, wool liner
- Size Options: One size
- Weight Capacity: Up to 14 lbs
- Ideal Use: Casual
- Notable Features:Privacy flaps and padded liner comfort anxious cats
- Appropriate for Plane Travel: Yes
- Price: Out of stock
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No carrier will completely solve the anxiety some cats feel when traveling, but there are features that can help. First, carriers that shield cats from outside distractions are ideal. The Petseek carrier has privacy flaps on two sides, which can be rolled up for times when your cat would rather see their surroundings. There are also mesh windows on three sides for good ventilation, a comfortable padded bottom, and a tether to secure escape artists.
The PetSeek opens from three sides and the top, giving you options for getting a resistant cat into the carrier. A side pocket offers storage, but it doesn’t have a zipper.
Since this carrier will only accommodate cats up to 14 pounds, we recommend the SturdiBag for larger cats with carrier anxiety.
Pros:
- Optional privacy flaps
- Multiple entrances
- Collapses for compact storage
- Affordable option
Cons
- Collapses when it’s not zipped up
- The fabric cover on the rigid floor liner is not removable
#10 Best Backpack: Petsfit Pet Backpack Carrier
- Construction: Durable Oxford fabric, fleece mat
- Size Options: One size
- Weight Capacity: Up to 18 pounds
- Ideal Use: Outdoor
- Notable Features: Generous padding and adjustable waist and chest straps
- Appropriate for Plane Travel: No
- Price: Out of stock
While backpack cat carriers aren’t right for everyone, they’re indispensable for hikers and cats that enjoy the outdoors. They can also stand in for your cat’s regular carrier, as some people actually find them easier to manage than holding a bulky carrier at their side.
The most important criteria for evaluating a cat backpack are safety and comfort—for both the cat being carried and the human doing the carrying. We think the Petsfit excels on both accounts.
For feline comfort, it has breathable mesh and a comfy padded mat at the bottom. For human comfort, it has padded shoulder straps and lower back padding. Additionally, the Petsfit has adjustable waist and chest straps for support and stability.
Cats can enter from the top or front entrance. A tether is included to prevent cats from jumping out while still being able to enjoy the view with the top open.
Pros:
- Storage pocket for treats and toys on the go
- Comfortable waist and chest straps keep it secure
- Several colors to choose from
Cons
- Probably won’t satisfy underseat requirements for plane travel
#11 Best Roller Carrier: Lollimeow Pet Rolling Carrier
- Construction: Polyester and breathable mesh
- Size Options: One size
- Weight Capacity: Up to 15 pounds
- Ideal Use: Travel
- Notable Features: Versatile carrier with multiple uses
- Appropriate for Plane Travel: Possibly—check with your airline
- Price: $59.99
This multifunctional carrier moves effortlessly from the car to the plane to the sidewalk. You can use it as a wheeled carrier, a car seat, a pet bed, or a backpack. For easy transport, a telescopic rod extends up to 20 inches.
Nervous cats will appreciate the privacy shades that block out distractions and can be rolled up when they prefer a view. The Lollimeow takes your cat’s comfort into consideration by providing both a padded mat and a fleece blanket.
A safety tether keeps your cat safe during travel and prevents them from running off if they become spooked.
Pros:
- Available in gray, black, pink, and green
- Side storage pockets
- Plenty of mesh windows equipped with rollable shades
Cons
- Not the most comfortable to wear as a backpack
#12 Best Budget: Frisco Collapsible Cat Carrier Bag
- Construction: Polyester & mesh
- Size Options: One size
- Weight Capacity: Up to 17 pounds
- Ideal Use: Casual
- Notable Features: Lightweight and collapsible
- Appropriate for Plane Travel: No
- Price: $11.95
At under $12, this affordable tote is ideal for people who don’t need a premium carrier—just a safe little transportation device for a trip to the vet or maybe for a move across town. This lightweight carrier supports cats weighing up to 17 pounds and is shaped like a cat-sized tent with a handle.
Cat parents short on space will appreciate how easily this Frisco carrier collapses down for storage. On the downside, there’s no shoulder strap. And you’ll have to supply a mat or blanket yourself.
Pros:
- Great value
- Collapsible for easy storage
- Super lightweight
Cons
- Not the safest for auto travel
- No shoulder strap
- No padded mat inside
4 Types of Cat Carriers and How to Choose
Before you choose a cat carrier, ask yourself a few questions about the places it will go.
Are you going on a trip by plane? Crossing the country in a car? Are you looking for disposable cardboard cat carriers for temporary rescue use, or do you just need a basic carrier that will get your cat to the veterinarian and back a few times a year?
Defining your needs will help you identify the best carrier for your situation.
Hard Plastic Carriers
Hard plastic carriers appeal to casual users who pop their cat into the carrier once a year or less. They’re convenient, easy to handle, and secure. Unlike some soft carriers that can’t hold up to clawing, it’s virtually impossible for a cat to break out of a hard carrier.
Hard carriers are a good choice for those who want maximum ease of use. If your cat has a tendency to get carsick or has anxiety-induced accidents, you’ll appreciate that hard carriers are easy to clean. You can spray them out with a hose and let them dry in the sun.
Because they are large and don’t compress underneath the seat, hard carriers aren’t the best choice for in-cabin plane transport. They tend to shatter during pet carrier crash tests, so if you’re concerned about safety or going for longer, more frequent car trips, soft carriers are a better choice.
Soft Carriers
Compared to hard carriers, soft cat carrier bags are a better choice for cats that are always on the go or traveling long distances. Plane travelers will appreciate that soft carriers can slide under the seat as carry-on luggage, and car travelers will like that soft cat carriers score better in Center for Pet Safety crash testing.
If your cat is an unhappy traveler, be aware that soft carriers are harder to clean out than hard ones. They’re also easier for cats to escape from. Ambitious cats can claw their way through mesh windows or even unzip the doors on their own.
Roller Carriers and Backpacks
Cat carriers with wheels are perfect for people who like the ease of dragging a roller suitcase. These carriers are typically built with plenty of storage space for cat care essentials and have soft, comfortable interiors. The main drawback of a roller carrier is the fact that some cats are scared by the vibration and sound of wheels rolling over the ground, especially on uneven surfaces.
Some roller carriers convert into backpacks, which allows you to easily transition between activities and different terrain.
Although usually not designed for airline or automotive use, backpack cat carriers are ideal for people who want to go for walks and hikes with their cats. The pack is a refuge in the case of a wildlife or dog encounter, and gives your cat a place to rest their legs.
Relevant Content:
- The 5 Best Large Cat Carriers for Travel
- Moving Cats to a New Home: A Step-by-Step Guide
- The 10 Best Cat Backpacks – We Tested Them All
Frequently Asked Questions
What kinds of carriers do cats like best?
All cats have different preferences, but generally, cats tend to like carriers that offer privacy and comfort. Look for padding, ample ventilation for airflow, and privacy shades. Choosing the right size is also important. Cats should be able to turn around and lie down comfortably in their carrier.
What kind of carrier is best for long journeys?
That depends on whether you’ll be traveling by car, plane, or foot. For long road trips, a crash-tested and certified carrier is best (Sleepypod is a good option). When it comes to air travel, size is your main concern—the carrier will need to fit under the seat in front of you. Soft carriers are best as they can be compressed to fit. Finally, a backpack works well if you’re hiking or traveling on foot.
Where is the safest place to put a cat carrier in the car?
If the carrier has passed crash tests and is designed to be belted into place, your safest option is in the backseat with a seatbelt. Otherwise, the safest place is on the floor behind the front seat, according to Lindsey A. Wolko, founder of the Center for Pet Safety.
Fyi the PetLuv Cartier has a lot of sharp metal edges on the inside. Seems kinda dangerous for cats if the Struggle to get out. Which my cat is prone to doing.
Billie, that’s concerning. Thank you for letting us know!
Hi!
Thanks for all the amazing research and content you put out! I really appreciate it!
I am looking for a carrier for my cats but the ones you have mentioned are either not available where I am, or are too expensive. Would I be able to email you some questions and examples?
I really value your opinion and would love your insights
Hi Kayleigh, you might want to post about this in our forum—we recently created a thread specifically for these types of questions! https://cats.com/community/product-recommendations/gadgets-gear-and-accessories-recommendations#post-115
Hope this helps!