10 Best Cat Carriers (2024 Reviews)

If you have a cat, there will come a point in time when you will need a carrier for your pet. A cat carrier will make trips to the vet and long road trips easier and safer.

If you are going to fly with your cat, a carrier for your kitty will be a necessity. Some pets even enjoy going in a carrier for comfort.

So, what is the best cat carrier for your cat? A lot of this will depend on your cat and the places you will be taking your cat in his carrier. Another factor will be what is comfortable for you because you are the one who has to carry your cat.

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If he weighs more than 15 pounds, a cat carrier on wheels might work better than a backpack or a bag that has a shoulder strap. Check out our reviews of the best cat carriers that are sure to keep your cat safe and comfortable while she travels.

10 Best Cat Carriers

Cat Attitudes Picks

1. Two-door Top-load Hard-Sided Pet Travel Carrier

This is a traditional style of cat carrier. It is a hard-sided carrier that is constructed of plastic and has a smooth wire-front door. The door latch is spring-loaded for easy opening and closing. There is ventilation on all sides except the bottom allowing your cat fresh breathable air.

This carrier has a 2 door design making it so that your pet can enter from the top or front. The top door can swing left or right depending on which way is most convenient. 

Construction is secure and easy to manage. The top and bottom of the kennel snap together with four latches, and the included screws can be used to further secure the top and bottom together for added reinforcement.

If you have a heavy pet, you cannot beat the stability of the floor of a hard-sided carrier.

Manufacturers Specs

• Sizes Available: 19 * 12.5 * 10in and 23 * 15 * 13in
• Material: Plastic and metal
• Colors: 1 color (gray and blue)

What We Like

• Constructed of durable hard plastic
• 2 ways to load your pet (top and front)
• Leak proof for nervous cat accidents
• Easy assembly
• 1 year limited warranty
• Reasonably Priced

What We Don’t Like

• The top door could be sturdier

Summary

Overall, this cat carrier received high reviews and is Amazon’s most popular cat carrier. If you need a carrier for short trips and going to the vet. This cat carrier is a great alternative. This can be the best cat carrier for nervous cats and difficult cats.

2. petisfam Top Load Cat Carrier

Soft-side carriers have grown in popularity over the last decade. One of the reasons this style carrier is a favorite with Cat Attitudes is the lighter weight that a fabric carrier has. This one weighs about 2 pounds (minus the cat, of course).

The carrier is constructed of SGS-tested Oxford Fabric. It has 3 sides made of mesh and the fleece cover is machine washable. The bag has carrying handles and an adjustable strap. It is also collapsible for easy storage.

The cat can be loaded through the top opening or one of the 2 side openings. The carrier zips completely and has a leash hook on the inside. This carrier comes with a luggage attachment and can be strapped into a car. This bag is airline-approved by most of the major airlines.

If you are looking for something lightweight and durable, the petisfam Top Load Cat Carrier will check all three boxes.

Manufacturers Specs

• Sizes Available: 17″L X 11″W X 11″H, max cat weight 16lbs.
• Material: Mesh, fleece, Oxford fabric
• Color: Gray

What We Like

• Lightweight
• Several doors for loading your cat
• Durable construction
• Designed for easy storage
• Secure, prevents escape
• Reasonably Priced

What We Don’t Like

• Probably will not work for a heavier cat
• Not a good fit for a cat that poops, pees, or vomits in the carrier

Summary

If you are looking for a carrier that is light and allows for easy storage, this is a good option.

3. Sherpa Travel Original Deluxe Airline Approved Pet Carrier

If you are a frequent traveler, (especially) airline, this is definitely the carrier for you. It is lightweight, has plenty of mesh to allow your pet to see his surroundings and get all the fresh air he needs. 

The carrier has a patented frame that allows the back end of the carrier to be pushed down to easily fit under an airline seat.

Zippers are locking. Straps are padded, adjustable and non-slip. There is also a strap that allows for seat belt and luggage securing. This carrier for your cat comes complete with a machine-washable faux lambskin liner and a pocket for “extras”.

The carrier is approved for use on most airlines and included in Sherpa’s Guaranteed on Board program.

Manufacturers Specs

• Sizes Available: 3 sizes (designed for pets from 8lbs to 22lbs)
• Material: Polyester, mesh, faux fleece, small amounts of metal and plastic
• Colors: 7 colors

What We Like

• Sturdy construction
• Pets can be loaded from the top or side
• Designed to meet airline travel requirements
• Available in 3 sizes
• Available in 7 colors
• Manufacturer provides detailed information about carrier use
• Priced less than $40

What We Don’t Like

• May be difficult to remove odors
• Some reports of weak materials

Summary

If you are a traveler who does not mind carrying your cat on your shoulder, the Sherpa Travel Original Deluxe can be a carrier that would allow your cat to travel in style.

4. Soft-Sided Mesh Pet Travel Carrier

• Medium soft-sided carrier measures approximately 16.5×9.4×9.8 inches (LxWxH)
• Carrying handles and adjustable shoulder strap
• Conforms to under-seat dimensions of most airlines
• Removable fleece pad is machine washable for easy cleaning. Wash separately in cool water with mild detergent; do not use bleach; do not tumble dry; line dry; do not dry clean or iron; dry completely before use; reshape if needed

This is another of our recommended lightweight cat carriers with an over-the-shoulder strap for easy transportation of your pet during travel.

This carrier is designed for durability and comfort. The pad inside is removable and washable. The carrier itself should be spot cleaned as needed.

Of course, this carrier has both a top and a front opening. It can hold cats up to 22lbs. This cat case conforms to fit under most airline seats as required.

The AmazonBasics Soft-Sided Mesh Pet Travel Carrier comes in black and is budget friendly. The carrier has a solid base insert, so your cat will feel comfortable standing in this case.

Manufacturers Specs

• Sizes Available: 3 sizes (designed for pets from 8lbs to 22lbs)
• Material: Soft breathable air mesh, faux fleece, metal rings and plastic buckle
• Colors: Black

What We Like

• Lightweight mesh construction (easy carrying and plenty of ventilation)
• Cat can be loaded from the top or side
• Recommended for airline travel
• Available in 1 size
• Washable insert and adjustable straps
• Reasonably Priced

What We Don’t Like

• Possibly smaller than expected
• Reported cats scratching through the mesh

Summary

This carrier has some great reviews and it is budget friendly. If you are planning on traveling, check out the AmazonBasics Soft-Sided Mesh Pet Travel Carrier.

5. SLEEKO Luxury Cat Carrier

This is another bag that is airline-compliant making it an ideal solution for the active traveler or for occasional visits to the vet. The bag is lightweight with a total weight of around 3 pounds.

The carrier features mesh windows for enhanced breathability. It also has 2 removable pads for the ultimate in comfort for your cat as it sleeps. The carrier also has 3 openings for easy access for your cat. 

The bag has reflective strips so it can easily be seen in the dark. It has reinforced safety zippers and seat belt buckles for car safety. The mesh is tear resistant and the body of the bag is heavy-duty polyester fabric. It can transport small pets of up to 11lbs.

This cat carrier comes with a dual padded carrying strap, a pet ID tag, a pocket for treats and other necessities and a clip-on shoulder strap. It has all the necessary features for the best cat carrier for car travel. It even folds flat and goes into its own carrying case.

Manufacturers Specs

• Sizes Available: 17.5” x 10” x 11.9” (one)
• Material: Polyester and mesh, small amounts of plastic and metal 
• Colors: Gray

What We Like

• Lightweight and well-made
• Folds flat for easy storage
• Mesh windows for advanced air-flow and vision
• Reflective strips for safety
• Reasonably Priced

What We Don’t Like

• Bottom may not be rigid enough
• Poor placement of handles

Summary

This cat carrier is stylish and compact. It is perfect for under-seat storage for air travel. It may not be an option for larger pets.

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6. PetLuv Happy Cat Premium Cat Carrier

The PetLuv Happy Cat Premium Cat Carrier is the Cadillac of soft-sided carriers. It is larger than most of the other carriers. It comes in 2 sizes and there is a model that comes with wheels to make getting your larger pet around more easily.

This carrier holds pets up to 45lbs. All 4 sides allow access and are made of rubber mesh. They provide optimum ventilation and sightseeing capabilities. You can also load and access your cat through the top of the carrier. 

The carrier has a roomy design, adjustable shoulder straps and a washable plushy bed. Some reviewers have stated that they have washed the body of the carrier and it washes up well. 

There are locking zippers and reinforced seams for added safety. This is the perfect carrier for a pet that prefers a roomier traveling space.

Manufacturers Specs

• Sizes Available: Length 20″, Height 13″, Depth 13″ and Length 24″, Height 16″, Depth 16″
• Material: Polyester and mesh, small amounts of plastic and metal 
• Colors: 3 colors

What We Like

• 5 ways to access your pet 
• Folds flat for easy storage
• Mesh windows for advanced air-flow and vision
• Reflective strips for safety
• Extra plush pillow on the inside
• Adjustable shoulder straps (wheels optional)

What We Don’t Like

• Weighs more than other carriers
• Bottom could use more support
• Reports of cats escaping through the windows

Summary

The PetLuv Happy Cat Premium Cat Carrier is definitely top of the line. It is a condo for your cat. Overall, the reviews are good. If you are need a lightweight solution, this cat carrier may be too heavy.

7. FrontPet Rolling Pet Travel Carrier

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This pet carrier is designed for airport travel. It fits under a cabin seat, has wheels and a handle that allows your pet to be easily pulled through the airport. The carrier also has a shoulder strap for quick grab and transport.

The FrontPet Rolling Pet Travel Carrier can be loaded from the top or the side. The carrier has mesh sides with roll-up side panels for security and privacy. This carrier has a removable washable pad. The inside is equipped with 2 collar leash clips.

This easy-to-maneuver cat carrier has 6 high-traction free spinning wheels and extending handle making the carrier easy to navigate tight spaces quickly. The wheeled platform is easily removed from the carrier allowing for fast grab and go of your pet.

The PetLuv Happy Cat Premium Cat Carrier is designed with the traveling pet parent in mind. The carrier is comfortable, lightweight and the wheeled platform can easily be added or removed as needed.  

Manufacturers Specs

• Sizes Available: 20 x 12 x 16 inches
• Material: Polyester and mesh, small amounts of plastic and metal 
• Colors: 1 color (brown)

What We Like

• Pet can be loaded from the top and side 
• Folds flat for easy storage
• Mesh windows for advanced air-flow and vision
• 6 full swing wheels
• Removable wheels (platform)
• Removable and washable pad cover
• Extendable Rolling Handle

What We Don’t Like

• Weighs more than other carriers
• May not easily fit under a plane seat

Summary

If you are going to by flying, the FrontPet Rolling Pet Travel Carrier is a great option for getting your pet through the airport. It allows him to travel in style and more importantly, it can save your back from having to carry the extra weight.

8. Peach Tree Pet Travel Rolling Backpack

This innovative backpack has 5-in-one functionality allowing you to use it as a tote, backpack, carrier, car seat and luggage, making sure you and your little buddy enjoy more time with you.

This backpack is constructed of durable 600D oxford fabric and PVC mesh. The backpack has a large mesh window allowing your pet to get great ventilation for fresh air. The top of the window unzips so your cat can stick their head out and view their surroundings.

The cat carrier has a hook on the inside for securing your pet so he will not be able to bolt. There are pockets for storage of toys and other accessories. This carrier comes complete with a telescoping handle so you can pull your pet. 

Whether you are flying, looking for the best cat carrier for long car trips or just taking your cat to the vet, the Peach Tree Pet Travel Rolling Backpack is a good choice for you and your cat.

Manufacturers Specs

• Sizes Available: 15.5 x 8.7 x 21 inches
• Material: 600D oxford fabric and PVC mesh, small amounts of plastic and metal 
• Colors: 3 colors 

What We Like

• Lightweight with durable construction
• Mesh windows for advanced air-flow and vision
• Safety straps and security buckles, hook on the inside
• Pockets for storage
• Removable and washable interior bottom support
• Airline approved
• Reasonably priced

What We Don’t Like

• Has to be tilted to roll
• Sometimes falls over due to unbalance

Summary

This cat backpack has a lot of versatility. You can put it on your back, carry it or pull it. It straps easily into a car and fits under an airplane seat.

9. PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack

This pet carrier is designed for the active individual who wants to take their best friend along for the adventure. Whether it is a hike, air travel or a boat ride, this cat backpack is a great option for you and your cat to do it together.

This backpack is constructed with durable high-grade polyester with a removable washable Sherpa pad. The design is well-ventilated with a two-way entry system for easy access. There are zip-open mesh windows that allow for better visibility.

The construction of the backpack is firmly reinforced with a  safety strap and buckle to secure your pet and prevent escape. It is equipped with extra thick padded shoulder straps for comfort. Both waist and chest buckles are provided to give you extra support.

The bag has storage pockets and a collapsible water bowl to keep your pet hydrated. If you are an active individual, this cat backpack can be an excellent way to include your cat in your activities.

Manufacturers Specs

• Sizes Available: 12.5 x 10.2 x 16.3 Inches
• Material: 600D high grade polyester and mesh, small amounts of plastic and metal 
• Colors: 9 colors 

What We Like

• Pet can be loaded from the top and side 
• Lightweight with durable construction
• Mesh windows for advanced air-flow and vision
• Pockets for storage, includes a pet bowl
• Removable and washable Sherpa pad
• Available in a variety of colors
• Reasonably priced

What We Don’t Like

• Bottom platform is larger than the bag bottom
• Poor pet strap placement

Summary

If you are an active person that can be the ideal cat backpack for you. It works well for flying, boating and hiking.

10. YUDODO Pet Dog Sling Carrier

This pet sling is a new and innovative way of transporting your pet. It creates a safe, secure and comfortable way of transporting your pet. And best of all, it is hands free. It is great for traveling or short trips to the vet.

This cat sling is constructed of padded mesh and has a leather strap with heavy duty buckles designed for comfortable wear. The sling has a leather bottom and a breathable mesh top. 

The sling bag provides a safe and cozy place for your pet to look around or even sleep. The bag is washable, but it is recommended that it be washed by hand. The sling comes in 2 sizes and the strap adjusts to measure 33 – 45 inches long.

This cat sling carrier is a simple option for being able to travel with your pet. It is quick, easy and has a spot for your cell phone.  

Manufacturers Specs

• Sizes Available: 15×3.9×7.8 inches (5 lbs) and 17x5x11 inches (10 lbs)
• Material: leather and mesh, small amounts of plastic and metal 
• Colors: 6 colors 

What We Like

• Simple option for walking with your pet 
• Lightweight with durable construction
• Adjustable strap
• Has a cell phone pocket
• Hand washable
• Available in a variety of colors
• Reasonably priced

What We Don’t Like

• Strap may not be long enough for a large person
• May not be comfortable for some pets

Summary

If you have a small pet, the YUDODO Pet Dog Sling Carrier can be the perfect option for you to be able to carry them around with you. Snug and cozy!

The Complete Guide to Buying a Cat Carrier

We all want our feline fur babies to be comfortable, healthy and part of our lives. And that may mean that we want to take long trips in the car or fly with with our beloved cats. Want to put your cat on a harness? Check out our best cat harnesses.

With a cat carrier, you can take your cats with you and keep them comfortable along the way. You may even find that your cat enjoys retreating to their carrier for a nap or security.

If you own a cat, a kitty carrier should be part of your cat gear. A carrier can help reduce the anxiety during a trip to the vet. It can also be a safe haven for a cat when unfamiliar people are in your home. 

This guide will answer questions you may have about purchasing a carrier and helping your cat get comfortable with his new traveling environment. Happy travels to you and your cat!

What is a Cat Carrier?

By definition, pet carriers are small portable boxes, crates, or cages used to transport small animals such as cats, lap dogs, miniature pigs, ferrets, chickens, guinea pigs, and so on, from one location to another (1).

In recent years, soft-sided bags, backpacks and sling style carriers have become popular for travel as well as other feline activities. 

Types of Cat Carriers

Cardboard Cat Carrier – These carriers are generally used by adoption centers and are not generally a type of carrier you would purchase as a carrier for your pet.

Hard-Sided Cat Carrier – These are sturdy and durable carriers that are easily washable. They come in a variety of sizes and colors. They are usually constructed of plastic and have wire doors.

Soft-Sided Cat Carrier – A soft-sided carrier resembles a gym bag in shape. It usually has mesh windows and straps for carrying. Most have a washable pad inside. This style is the best cat carrier for a plane.

Backpack Style Cat Carrier – This is a soft style carrier that can be worn on your back for transporting your cat. If you are an adventurer and would like to take your cat with you, a backpack is a good choice.

Sling Style Cat Carrier – This is a carrier that is worn by the pet owner as a sling and the cat is secured in the pouch that is part of the sling.

Features of a Cat Carrier

Cat carriers come complete with numerous features. Some are cosmetic, but most have functionality. It is always important to consider the size and the personality of your cat when it comes to considering what features you cat carrier should include.

Soft or Hard – Cat carriers are available in hard materials (plastic) or soft materials (nylon or polyester). A hard carrier will allow you to wash every part of the carrier while with a soft carrier, it may be more difficult to wash the whole thing.

Although most soft carriers do have washable bottoms and pads. Not all soft carriers have the sturdy bottoms that the plastic carriers have, but plastic carrier may not be as comfortable.

Size – The size of your pet will have a big impact on the carrier you purchase. A large pet may not fit in all carriers. A soft carrier may not support the weight of your pet. If you have a small pet he may do better in a soft carrier or even a sling.

Functionality – make sure the carrier you select works best for your purpose. Do you need a shoulder strap, a handle for carrying, wheels, a backpack? And there are more. 

If you are going to take your cat across the country, the carrier you choose could be completely different if it is going to be used for occasional trips to the vet. 

Storage – Many carriers fold up and some even come with their own carrying cases. This may be feature that is necessary or important to you.

Airline Approved – If you are going to be flying with you cat, you will need an airline approved carrier and it will need to fit under the seat in front of you.

What is the Best Size Carrier for a Cat?

It is recommended that a cat carrier be 1.5 times the size of your cat. Measure you cat from the front of his chest to the end of his rear to get his length. To get his height, measure from the top of his back to the floor.

Also, many carrier manufacturer’s specify a maximum weight for their product. Many cats like tight spaces, but they also need ample room to avoid anxiety. 

If you are purchasing a carrier for a kitten, you should buy a carrier that will allow him to be comfortable when he is a full grown adult.

Best Cat Carriers for 2 Cats

• Travel Carrier: Built-in straps that allow safe connection to a seatbelt; Easy to set up and fold flat in seconds; Pad cover is removable and washable
• Cat Travel Carrier: Pet carrier/dog carrier with multiple entrances; Interior hooks for hanging the hammock (Hammock is optional); Comes with an individual carry case for easy storage
• Three ways to use the Double Kennel: 1) Use as two connected but divided compartments; 2) Use as one big space by unzipping the center zipper which divides the walls; 3) Detach the Double Kennel into two Single Kennels
• Lightweight Travel Carrier: Lightweight and zippered mesh door in the front and at one or both ends. Size: Double: 20″ x 20″ x 39″
• Dual Compartment Pet Kennel: Can be used as a pet kennel or pet cage indoors or outdoors

Putting 2 cats in the same carrier will obviously require more space and have to be able to support the weight of the 2 cats. It is important that the 2 cats going into the carrier get along with each other.

This 2-in-1 cat carrier is ideal for traveling with a pair of cats. It folds down in seconds and goes into its own carrying case. 

Cats can enter the carrier from the end or the front. The full size of the double carrier is 20″ x 20″ x 39″. This dual compartment kennel can be used indoors or outdoors.

There are 3 ways to use this kennel: 1) 2 connected kennels, with separate spaces 2) 2 connected spaces unzipped in the middle creating one large space 3) detach the 2 kennels and use as individual kennels.

According to the manufacturer, this double kennel can house 3 – 4 cats.

Manufacturers Specs

• Sizes Available: Double: 20″ x 20″ x 39″
• Material: Polyester and mesh, small amounts of plastic and metal 
• Colors: 2 colors

What We Like

• Designed for multiple cats 
• Folds flat for easy storage
• Mesh windows for advanced air-flow and vision
• Can be one kennel or two
• Washable mats 
• Straps for seat belt connection

What We Don’t Like

• Some difficulty in connecting the units

Summary

If you are going to be traveling with multiple pets, this cat carrier system will allow you to travel with multiple cats or 2 small to mid-sized dogs.

More About Cat Carriers for 2 Cats

Being the owner of 2 cats, I have taken them to the vet in the same plastic carrier. The carrier has to be large enough to accommodate both cats and you have to be able to carry the weight of both cats (mine had wheels). 

The cats have to get along. And if they are going to the vet, their demeanor towards each other may be completely different on the way home than on the way to the vet.

How to Get Your Cat Used to a Carrier

The best way to keep a cat from freaking out at the sight of a carrier is to get them used to it before their first trip in it. To help your cat feel less intimidated at the sight of the carrier, follow these tips for getting her used to the carrier.

1. Don’t hide the carrier – If you leave the carrier out in the open with the door open, sooner or later your cat will get curious and venture inside. Seeing the carrier every day or at least several hours before their trip will help eliminate the fear of the carrier.

2. Play with the carrier – Practice and play with the carrier. Entice your cat to go into the carrier with treats or toys. Carry the cat in the carrier in the house. Get your cat familiar with being moved in the carrier.

3. Make the carrier comfortable – Put a towel or blanket in your cat’s carrier to keep them comfortable. Make sure you carry an extra towel or newspaper in case your cat has an accident due to nervousness.

4. Don’t rush the process – Allow your cat ample time to get used to the carrier. A week or two of working with them daily should have them acclimated to their new mode of transportation.

How to Put Your Cat Into a Carrier

How to put a cat in a carrier when it is time go on a trip is the moment of truth. If you have gotten your cat used to being around the carrier, getting him into it should be relatively easy.

This video will have your cat comfortably in their carrier in no time at all.

Final Thoughts

A cat carrier is a necessary part of your cat gear. There will be some point in time where you are going to want to take your cat somewhere in your car even if it is just a quick trip to the vet. 

The safest and most comfortable way to transport your cat is in a carrier. There is a carrier out there to fill every functional need. It is as simple as deciding what functions your cat carrier should perform.

Whether you are just going to the vet or you are traveling across the country the perfect carrier for your cat is available. Have fun traveling with your best friend!