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Whether you’re making a quick run to the vet or gearing up for a cross-country trip, you need a safe way to transport your cat that keeps them comfortable during the journey.
From practical totes for plane travel to futuristic-looking backpacks for outdoor adventuring, the market for cat carriers is flooded with options. There is no one-size-fits-all carrier—the various styles work best for certain applications.
To find out how to choose a cat carrier that provides the ideal combination of comfort, usability, and safety, we talked to veterinarians and cat behaviorists. Here’s what you should know if you’re shopping for a cat carrier or simply curious to learn more about the options.
What Makes a Cat Carrier Safe?
Dr. Grant Little, DVM and veterinary expert on JustAnswer, says a good cat carrier should make the task of transporting your cat less stressful for both of you. “It should be easy to keep clean,” he suggests, “have functions to move your cat in and out, and have visibility so your cat can keep an eye on things going on around them.”
Regarding safety, Dr. Little says there’s a lot to take into consideration. It’s particularly important to choose a cat carrier that is easy to secure during travel and that keeps your cat restrained. While standard hard-sided carriers may provide some protection against falling objects, Dr. Little notes that “they have no restraining system at all, and the metal doors can make for a hard spot for your cat to fall on or get their claws stuck in.”
Carriers with padding on the inside are more comfortable for your cat, and ventilation panels help keep your cat from overheating. Dr. Little recommends cat carriers that clip into a seatbelt as “the safest of all in case a car accident was to occur.”
A cat carrier should be large enough for your cat to comfortably turn around as needed so they don’t feel stuck but not so large that it becomes difficult for you to carry. For extended travel, consider an expandable carrier with fold-out sides to give your cat room to safely stretch out during breaks.
Different Kinds of Cat Carriers
While designs vary, all cat carriers share the same goal: to give cat parents a safe and comfortable way to tote their cat around—whether that’s for business (a trip to the vet or groomer) or pleasure (a short walk around the block). Here’s a quick overview of the different types of cat carriers.
Hard-sided carriers are practical for short trips and untrained cats
Hard carriers are typically made from plastic with a rigid body and metal doors. They’re simple to use and easy to clean, which makes them a good choice for quick trips outside the house. Because they don’t compress, however, they’re not ideal for plane travel. They can also be difficult to secure in the car and tend to shatter during crash tests, so they may not be the safest choice for extended travel.
Soft-sided carriers win for car safety, but not feisty cats
Made from flexible materials, soft-sided carriers typically feature collapsible frames that enable them to slide under plane seats. They score better than hard carriers in crash testing and can often be secured with seatbelts for car travel. While generally comfortable for cats, soft-sided carriers can be harder to clean in the case of accidents and may not hold up as well to sharp claws and teeth.
Backpack-style carriers are a multi-purpose success
Comfort-wise, cat backpacks tend to be easier on the human body than awkward handheld kennels. And options like the Fat Cat backpack offer an alternative that is both stylish and comfy for your cat.
“A backpack won’t tilt and slide your cat around inside. And it won’t get banged against car doors, walls, or the reception desk at your vet’s office,” points out Dr. Megan Conrad, a veterinarian working with telehealth pet service Hello Ralphie. Plus, a backpack can keep your cat above ground-level threats like dogs or children.
Concerns tend to circle around safety, but both experts consider backpacks to be as safe as any standard cat carrier. “Since your cat will need airflow, cat backpacks have ventilation via mesh screens, clear windows with ventilation holes, or both,” Dr. Conrad tells us. “Some backpacks come with a short leash you can attach to a harness, which is a great feature for preventing escapes,” she adds.
Strollers are good for large or senior cats
The cat stroller is another option for walks or gentle hikes with your cat. Strollers are designed to keep your cat safely contained and save you from bearing your cat’s weight. These can be a good option for larger cats or for cats with mobility issues.
A good cat stroller features a sturdy frame and strong wheels for stability. Mesh panels improve visibility for your cat and provide ventilation. Look for additional features like water-resistant materials, optional rain covers, cup holders, and storage compartments. Some models like the ibiyaya 5-in-1 cat stroller are convertible for use as a backpack and car-safe carrier.
Slings offer anxious cats security—but keep them indoors
Much like a baby sling, cat slings enable you to keep your pet close. Cats with mobility issues or separation anxiety may enjoy being carried in a sling on walks or around the house. Because they offer limited benefits in terms of safety and security, however, slings are best for indoor use or transport between other modes of travel. To improve safety, look for a sling with a collar or harness attachment.
Type of Carrier | What It Is | Is It Right For My Cat? |
Hard-Sided | Rigid plastic carrier, typically with metal doors | Best for short trips or nervous cats with destructive tendencies |
Soft-Sided | Fabric carrier with a flexible frame | All around the best carrier for most travel applications |
Backpack Style | Pod-like carrier worn across your back to evenly distribute your cat’s body weight | Versatile for many uses but particularly good for walking or hiking outdoors |
Stroller | Carrier on wheels, often with storage and/or additional features like cup holders | Ideal for walking on even or paved surfaces |
Sling | Fabric sling that holds your cat close to your body | Generally best for short-term indoor use; not recommended for travel |
How To Choose the Best Carrier for Your Cat
A backpack that enables your cat to accompany you on a leisurely hike might not work for plane travel, while a sturdy carrier designed for car travel might be too cumbersome for more casual applications. We asked the experts how to choose a cat carrier.
Dr. Little says, “Safety and functionality are the two features that you’re really weighing between when selecting a carrier.” In certain situations, it may be easier to get your cat into and out of a hard-sided carrier, but soft-sided carriers are generally easier to store. Think about when you plan to use the carrier and what features might make the experience more comfortable for you and your cat.
Here are some carrier recommendations for specific situations:
Infrequent travelers may prefer hard-sided carriers
Hard-sided carriers are a practical choice for cats who don’t leave the house except for quick trips, like to the vet. They’re economical, easy to use, and secure. For cats prone to carsickness, hard carriers are easy to clean, and they generally stand up to anxiety-induced clawing better than soft carriers. Look for a hard-sided carrier with two doors so it’s easy to get your cat in and out.
Extended travel needs a soft-sided carrier
Whether you’re traveling by plane or car, long-term safety and comfort are your top priorities. Dr. Little says that for car travel, “Having a carrier that can sit in the seat or on the floor without moving or sliding is important.” Look for a carrier that comes with a seatbelt attachment for optimal security.
For air travel, Dr. Little recommends choosing a cat carrier that “can fit the space you need.” For in-cabin plane travel, look for a soft-sided carrier with a collapsible frame. Soft carriers are not recommended for cats traveling in the luggage compartment because, as Dr. Little notes, other bags could land on them and cause serious damage.
Kittens can use just about any carrier—with extra padding
It’s perfectly safe for kittens to use an adult cat carrier. For very small kittens, however, adding a blanket or soft towel can help fill in excess space and give your kitten a greater sense of security. It’s also wise to consider additional safety features like locking zippers in case your kitten gets curious.
Adventurous cats benefit from backpacks
Going outside is a great source of mental stimulation for indoor cats, provided it’s done safely with a leash and harness. Janet Cutler, certified Cat Behaviorist at Cat World, says, “If you like hiking or going for walks that are beyond what your cat is able to walk on a leash and harness, then using a backpack could be a great option for you.” Cat strollers offer similar benefits but take your cat’s weight off your shoulders (literally).
Escape artists need locking zippers
Not every cat enjoys leaving the comfort of home. If your cat is prone to anxiety, you may need to take additional measures to ensure their safety. Choose a carrier made from rugged materials with multiple entrances to mitigate the struggle of getting your cat in and out. Carriers with locking zippers provide an extra layer of security, and zip-up privacy covers can help prevent overstimulation.
To reduce anxiety, get your cat used to the carrier before you travel. Dr. Little says, “If the only time you get the carrier out is to put your escape artist into it, they will likely see the cue and run away instantly.” Pheromone products like Feliway can help your cat feel calmer in the carrier.
Multiple cats usually need their own carriers
You may be able to transport two easygoing cats in one large carrier for quick trips but, for longer periods of travel, it’s worth investing in separate carriers. The exception may be for strongly bonded cats who feel safer in the company of another cat.
How We Chose
We selected the cat carriers featured here based on a combination of our own hands-on testing, comprehensive analysis of customer reviews across a wide variety of retail platforms, and interviews with veterinary experts.
We prioritized cat carriers with durable materials and features that enhance safety and comfort for cats as well as convenience and usability for cat parents. Our picks are also influenced by the experience of living and playing alongside our own much-loved and strongly opinionated kitties, who are never stingy with their feedback.