Like other animals raised in people’s homes, cats are not fond of being moved from place to place. This is especially when you want to move them using a vehicle. You’re going to need a cat carrier, and we recommend buying the best cat carrier that you can afford.
A cat might resist and tend to be defensive when in unfamiliar places. If you try to move your cat against their will, you risk getting clawed in the process. Additionally, you have to make regular trips to the vet and need to make plans to best transport your pet safely.
Luckily, there are some convenient cat carriers on the market that can help you with this. These carriers come in a wide range of designs, shapes, and sizes. These products can make life easier both for you and your cat. This is because the carriers help you transport your cat from home to the vet with ease.
The good thing is that common cat carriers are often airline-approved, carry-on size, and can travel with a person anywhere. Nowadays, most of these products are made of fabric, and as a result, you can easily fold them up for secure storage.
In this review is a list of the 11 best cat carriers for your next out-of-home trip with your cat in tow. Various parameters such as quality, design, material, durability, weight, and price were evaluated to help the buying process be considered in compiling the list. Also, outlined each was given a list of pros and cons to help you make the right purchasing decision. After reading the review, you will be able to identify the best cat carrier on the market that meets your specific needs.
1. Petmate Two Door Top Load Pet Kennel
Petmate pet kennel is one of the most sought-after cat carriers sold today. This is because the product is well made with durable plastic that lasts. If you are not planning on carrying your cat for long but checking them into a pet holding facility, then this is the cat carrier for you. Also, if you are traveling long distances, these pet carriers provide your cat with enough space to stretch out and play. The flexibility for a variety of traveling options presented with this case makes it a great option.
Many people like the Petmate pet kennel because it comes in a two-door design. As a result, users are limited to the side door but can put their cats into the top of the carrier. This cat carrier is also easy to use and assemble. It comes in different colors, including tan, white, rose, and blue. If you want, you can get a fleece bag that is sold separately from the unit. This can be convenient, especially for long and haul journeys.
Pros:
- This carrier has two doors for easy loading.
- The plastic construction makes it durable.
- Multiple color options.
- Offers better access than one-sided carriers.
Cons:
- Does not fold up entirely during storage.
- A cat carrier is quite heavy when compared to others on the list.
2. U-pet Innovative Patent Bubble Pet Carriers
You can find U-pet carriers in green, yellow, and pink colors. This cat carrier is ideal for those looking for a stylish and unique design.
Pros:
- This carrier features beautiful construction.
- Cool design is aesthetically pleasing.
- Top and side opening for easy access.
- Lightweight construction.
- It can be carried as a backpack.
Cons:
- More expensive than other products
- Design not suitable for large cats.
3. AmazonBasics Soft-Sided Pet Travel Carrier
To make your cat comfortable while in transit, the bag comes with a soft fleece mat. This provides a platform for your lynx to relax, even on long journeys. You will also find that the carrier has proper ventilation that can be helpful to an overheating kitty. You can choose this product if you are looking for something affordable and straightforward.
Pros:
- Easy to carry carrier.
- Well ventilated for the safety of your cat.
- Lightweight design for ease of carrying.
- Durable for long-term use.
- Fits under airline seats.
Cons:
- Strong cats can escape.
- Feels too small for big cats.
4. OxGord Airline Approved Cat Carrier
Pros:
- Available in many colors.
- Easy to store in small spaces.
- Lightweight construction.
- Durability is key on this carrier.
- Has safety belt snaps.
Cons:
- Cats can escape.
- Some customers complain of a strong odor.
5. Pet Magasin Hard Cover Collapsible Cat Carrier
The Pet Magasin cat carrier also features a large window that allows your ocelot to view what is happening outside. Also, there are slots for ventilation and a comfortable mat on the bottom to keep your tabby healthy. These added touches make pets and owners flock to this carrier.
Pros:
- Easy to store as the carrier is foldable.
- Good ventilation.
- Lightweight carrier.
- A durable carrier that lasts for a long time.
Cons:
- This can be difficult to zip when the cat is trying to get out.
- Not ideal for air travel.
6. Petsfit Expandable Travel Carrier
Pros:
- Offers large space for the cat.
- It’s lightweight.
- It folds down flat for secure storage.
- High quality and durable.
Cons:
- A bit pricey than other carriers on the list.
- It cannot fit under airline seats.
7. Catit Design Cabrio Multi-Functional Carrier System
There is a food and water dish on the carrier’s side to keep enough supplies for your cat. This adds to the weight of the overall unit, which in turn makes the unit more stable. If the other cat carriers on this list do not work for you, you should go for this one. The good thing is that a 5-year warranty covers this carrier.
Pros:
- The design makes it easy to load the pet.
- Convenient for use.
- High quality and durable.
- Sturdy for the safety of you and your pet.
Cons:
- Heavier than other carriers.
- Does not fold up for easy storage.
8. Pet Gear I-GO2 Plus Traveler Rolling Backpack Carrier
What was most appealing about the pet gear rolling backpack carrier is that it has ample vertical height. This means that tom can sit upright during the journey, enabling him to stretch and relax.
Pros:
- Large size provides ample room for your kitty.
- Quality and durable construction.
- Ergonomic handle for easy transport.
- Comes with a fleece pad.
Cons:
- Not comfortable as a backpack.
- Not approved by most airlines.
9. PetObedience Airline Approved Soft Sided Pet Carrier
PetObedience cat carrier is ideal for cats that are less than 18 pounds in weight. The good thing is that it does not necessarily look like your ordinary cat carrier. Also, you have a pocket for holding your cat’s supplies, an added convenience for long journeys.
Pros:
- Sturdy construction.
- Lightweight carrier.
- Quality construction.
- Impressive durability that outlasts most competitors in this category.
- Waterproof for multiple weather or accident protection.
- Lifetime warranty
Cons:
- A bit pricier than other models.
- Small windows.
- Small capacity.
10. Sportpet Designs Foldable Travel Cat Carrier
To insert your feline into the carrier, you can either open up the front door or the entire front panel. The carrier also comes with a bed that enables your cat to rest while on the move. Making this a useful carrier that will minimize stressors for your cat.
Pros:
- Beautiful triangular design.
- Folds up quickly for storage.
- Lightweight construction.
- Durable and lasting.
Cons:
- A bit cramped.
- The bed included cannot be washed in a machine.
11. Paws & Pals City Walk N Stride Pet Stroller
What is most obvious with the stroller is that it is spacious and large. As a result, your cat has enough space to play and rest. To keep your pet secure during rough rides, the manufacturer of the City Walk has installed two leashes that can hold the cat in place. Storage is another selling point on the City Walk. This is because the stroller comes with a storage compartment and a drink holder on the side.
The City Walk is an excellent product for those who want to practice extreme pet care habits.
Pros:
- Folds up easily for storage.
- Waterproof to protect the cat from the rain.
- Available in many colors.
- Quality construction.
- Durable product.
Cons:
- Difficult to assemble.
- Not convenient for car travel.
Table of Contents
The benefits of cat carriers
Having one the best cat carriers in the market can be very beneficial to both you and your cat. This is because the carrier can provide you with the following benefits.
- The carrier enables you to keep the cat in one place.
- It makes it easy to contain the cat when traveling.
- Reduces injuries on your cat in case of an accident.
- Keeps the puss safe from different hazards.
- If you are driving, you can focus on the road ahead instead of keeping your eye on the cat.
Factors to consider when buying a cat carrier
Getting the right cat carrier on the market can be very tricky. Before going out to shop for the product, you need to identify the features that appeal to you most, your travel needs, and your cat’s behavior and mood. Below is a deeper exploration of things that need to be considered when looking for the right cat carrier. They are:
Materials used
Cats are scratching animals. As a result, the materials used in making cat carriers should be strong enough to avoid damage and scratches from the pet. This is especially crucial when you are putting the cat in the carrier. Due to anger and stress being experienced, the cat naturally lashes out with their claws. Cats do not like traveling, and as a result, you need a great carrier that will stand their aggression.
Design
A good cat carrier should come in a design that eases things for both you and your cat. The design should include a large opening to become easy to put and remove the cat from the carrier. If the opening is small, your cat may become angry for being put through a narrow opening. Therefore, it is advisable to choose cat carriers with either a zipper opening or a lid that opens up completely.
Size
Size is also another critical feature to consider when looking for a cat carrier. You should ensure that the carrier of your choice has ample space to allow your cat to stand or relax. However, you should not choose carriers with vast areas that can cause the cat to bang on the walls when not handled properly. Therefore, it is important to keep the space reasonable to keep your cat comfortable.
Handling
Handling is the next factor that you need to consider when looking for a cat carrier. A good carrier either has straps that you can hang on the shoulder or a convenient handle that you can use to hold the carrier. With that, you will be very comfortable as you move around with your pet. Also, you need to go for a cat carrier that can be accommodated during travel. If you are traveling on an airplane, the carrier should be able to fit under the seat. Additionally, you should get a cat carrier that can fit comfortably on a car seat.
Type of carrier
There are two main types of cat carriers on the market. First, hard box carriers can become handy when carrying your cat in a vehicle or airplane. Since these carriers are hard and rigid, they can protect your pet from different injuries.
The second type of cat carrier is the soft bag-like carrier. These types of carriers are great for short errands where you will travel in your own car.
Durability
Naturally, cats are resistant to being put in carriers. As a result, you need a durable carrier that will withstand aggressive scratches from your feline friend.
Ventilation
Ventilation is crucial for cats. This is especially when you are traveling long distances, either in a car or airplane. The cat needs to be adequately ventilated to reduce not only heat but also prevent suffocation. Good carriers have large, netted windows to ensure that fresh air reaches your pet.
Padding
Good padding on the bottom of the carrier ensures that your cat is comfortable while on the move. This will prevent fatigue and, instead, offer a high level of relaxation to the pet.
Which one should you choose?
The above information should have shed insights into the best cat carriers on the market. From the analysis above, the OxGord airline-approved carrier seems to be the best value for the money. This is because the cat carrier is simple, light, and well constructed. In addition, this carrier is approved for use in airlines and thus is versatile for various uses.
On the other hand, if you have a larger budget, you can comfortably settle for the U-pet Innovative Patent Bubble Pet Carrier that boasts a host of advanced features. In addition to being built using high-quality materials, the carrier comes with a top opening and convenient straps that let you carry it on your back. In addition, you have storage space to carry your cat’s supplies. However, you need to note that this carrier comes at a higher price.
No matter your cat carrier’s choice, you need to ensure that it meets your needs and budget so both you and your pet can travel with peace of mind.
Jonathon Hyjek is an entrepreneur and cat-lover. He is married to Joy and they share their home with their 2 feline-friends, Franklin & Ollie. Jonathon is a self-admitted “Crazy Cat Guy”. He started this website because of his love for his own cats and their well-being.