9 Best Carriers for Cats: Top Travel-Friendly Options for Your Feline Companion

Traveling with your feline friend can be a delightful experience, but only if you have the right carrier. Whether you’re heading to the vet or embarking on a cross-country adventure, choosing the perfect cat carrier ensures your pet’s safety and comfort. With so many options available, finding the best one can be a bit overwhelming.

That’s where we come in. We’ve researched and tested numerous carriers to bring you the top nine choices that cater to various needs and preferences. From stylish and cozy to sturdy and functional, these carriers will make your next trip with your cat a breeze. Let’s dive into the best carriers that will keep your kitty content and secure.

1. Hardshell Cat Carriers

Hardshell cat carriers are perfect for providing extra protection and durability during travel. They’re ideal for nervous cats and longer journeys.

Best Overall Hardshell Carrier

The Petmate Two-Door Top-Load Pet Kennel takes the top spot for overall hardshell carriers. It features a convenient top door, so loading and unloading your cat is a breeze. Its sturdy construction ensures your cat is safe, and the ample ventilation keeps them comfortable. The kennel also has a secure latch system, so there’s no worry of your cat escaping.

Budget-Friendly Hardshell Option

For a more affordable choice, the AmazonBasics Two-Door Top-Load Pet Kennel offers great value. Priced competitively, it doesn’t compromise on quality. This carrier also has a top-loading door, making it easier to place your cat inside. With strong plastic construction and plenty of ventilation, you’re getting both safety and comfort at a budget-friendly price.

2. Soft-Sided Cat Carriers

Soft-sided cat carriers are great for flexibility and comfort during travel. These carriers often feature soft, breathable materials, making them ideal for car rides or short trips.

Top Pick for Comfort

The Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier stands out for comfort. Featuring a plush, removable fleece bed, it keeps your cat cozy. The padded shoulder strap eases carrying, and mesh windows provide ventilation and visibility. The patented spring wire frame allows the rear end to be pushed down several inches, making it airline-approved for under-seat use. Sherpa’s durability and comfort make it a favorite among pet owners.

Affordable Soft-Sided Carrier

For an affordable option, try the Pet Magasin Soft-Sided Pet Travel Carrier. This budget-friendly carrier offers robust features like waterproof material, ample ventilation with mesh panels, and a padded floor mat. The lightweight design makes it easy to carry, and the foldable structure allows for convenient storage. Pet Magasin ensures your cat’s comfort without breaking the bank.

3. Backpack Carriers for Cats

Backpack carriers are a fantastic choice if you want to bring your feline friend on more adventurous outings or urban jaunts. These carriers let you keep your hands free while your cat enjoys the ride.

Best Overall Backpack Carrier

Choose the PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack if you’re searching for exceptional quality and comfort for your cat. It features durable 600D high-grade polyester, ensuring long-lasting use. Padded shoulder straps and chest buckles provide extra comfort for you. Mesh windows on all sides enhance ventilation and visibility, making sure your kitty stays calm and comfortable. Plus, the collapsible bowl and integrated safety strap add practicality and security.

Lightweight Backpack Option

Opt for the Katziela Voyager Backpack if you need a lighter option. Weighing only 3 pounds, it won’t weigh you down. Its sturdy construction doesn’t compromise on quality. It features a ventilated design with mesh windows, ensuring your cat gets plenty of fresh air. The padded back and shoulder straps offer your comfort during long walks. Plus, it has an internal safety strap to secure your cat and prevent escapes.

4. Rolling Cat Carriers

Rolling cat carriers offer effortless mobility, making them an ideal choice for those who prefer not to carry their pets. Let’s dive into two top options.

Premium Roller Carrier

The Sherpa on Wheels Pet Carrier stands out as a premium choice. Its durable frame ensures stability, and the mesh panels provide excellent ventilation. The carrier’s telescoping handle and smooth-rolling wheels make transporting your cat a breeze. Padded interiors add extra comfort, ensuring your feline friend travels in style.

Best Value Rolling Carrier

For those seeking value, the Pet Gear I-GO2 Traveler is a great pick. Combining affordability with functionality, it converts from a roller to a backpack, car seat, or tote. Integrated wheels and a telescoping handle simplify movement, and it includes a tether to secure your cat. Plus, spacious interior and mesh windows ensure ample space and ventilation.

5. Cardboard Cat Carriers

Cardboard cat carriers offer a lightweight and disposable option for short-term needs. They are a cost-effective choice for specific situations.

When to Use a Cardboard Carrier

Use cardboard carriers for quick vet visits or temporary transport. They’re perfect for kittens or smaller cats who don’t yet require a more durable carrier. These carriers are also handy when transitioning between long-term carriers, providing a convenient, short-term solution. Avoid using them for extended trips or airline travel due to their limited durability.

Choosing a Sturdy Cardboard Carrier

Choose a sturdy cardboard carrier by checking its weight limit and assembly design. Ensure it has adequate ventilation holes to keep your cat comfortable and secure. Look for reinforced handles for safer handling, and consider options like Petco’s Cardboard Kennel, which offers extra durability. Always check for secure locking mechanisms to prevent your cat from escaping during transit.

By knowing when and how to use these carriers, you can provide a safe, affordable travel option for your feline friend.

6. Designer Cat Carriers

Designer cat carriers combine style with functionality, making it easy to travel in vogue. Here are two standout options.

Luxury Designer Carrier

Choose a luxury designer carrier if you want to travel in style. Brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton have bespoke pet carriers that tout premium materials and unparalleled elegance. Expect features like soft leather finishes, high-quality zippers, and padded interiors. These carriers not only provide your cat with comfort but also make a fashion statement.

Most Fashionable Choice

Go for the most fashionable choice with the Petsfit Comfort Expandable Carrier. It offers a chic design with expandable sides, allowing more space for your cat while maintaining a sleek look. The carrier includes mesh panels for ventilation and comfortable padding for your feline friend’s comfort. This carrier is perfect for those who want to combine practicality with a modern aesthetic.

7. Airline-Approved Cat Carriers

Traveling by air with your feline friend requires a special kind of carrier. These carriers meet airline regulations, ensuring your cat’s comfort and safety.

Best for Air Travel

Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier: Features mesh panels.
This carrier is well-known for its durability and comfort. With mesh panels for ventilation and a padded shoulder strap, your cat will travel in style and comfort.

Petmate Sky Kennel: Meets IATA requirements.
It’s perfect for long-distance travel. With its strong plastic shell, secure door latches, and plenty of ventilation, it’s designed to keep your cat safe and secure during flights.

Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Pet Carrier: Versatile and expandable.
This carrier adapts to fit under different airline seats. It has a cozy interior, ventilation on multiple sides, and is made of luggage-grade nylon for durability.

Tips for Choosing Airline-Compatible Carriers

Check Airline Guidelines: Regulations may vary.
Always check your specific airline’s pet travel guidelines before purchasing a carrier. Each airline has its own size and weight restrictions.

Comfort Is Key: Padded interiors are ideal.
Opt for carriers with padded interiors and ample ventilation. A comfortable cat is a happy traveler, reducing stress for both you and your pet.

Secure Closures: Locks must be sturdy.
Ensure the carrier has secure locking mechanisms. This prevents accidental escapes and keeps your cat safe during the journey.

Size Matters: Measure for under-seat fit.
Measure the space under the airline seat to ensure the carrier fits properly. A carrier that’s too large might not be allowed in the cabin.

With these tips and top carriers, air travel with your feline friend will be a breeze.

8. Expandable Cat Carriers

Expandable cat carriers are perfect if you need extra space for your feline friend without compromising on portability. They can be compact for travel yet provide a roomy area when expanded.

Top Rated Expandable Carrier

The PetLuv Happy Cat Premium Carrier tops the list of expandable carriers. It features four mesh windows for visibility and ventilation, making your cat feel comfortable and less anxious. Side expansions create additional space, allowing your pet to move around and stretch. This carrier is also versatile with multiple carrying options: you can use it as a shoulder bag, or a hand tote, or secure it in your car with seatbelt loops.

Benefit of Using Expandable Carriers

Expandable carriers offer several benefits. They provide your cat with more space, which reduces stress during travel. The extra room allows for movement, making long trips or vet visits more pleasant. Ventilation is typically enhanced, thanks to the additional mesh sides that improve air circulation. These carriers also adapt to various situations, offering a flexible solution whether you’re traveling by car, plane, or foot. Their versatility and comfort features make them a top choice for cat owners.

9. Capsule Carriers for Cats

Capsule carriers provide a futuristic and stylish way to transport your feline friend. They are designed to balance comfort with visibility, keeping your cat secure.

Most Innovative Design

Capsule carriers stand out with their innovative designs, often featuring a semi-sphere window, also known as a “bubble.” These windows allow your cat to see the world around them while staying safely enclosed. The sleek, modern aesthetic isn’t just for looks; these carriers are often made from durable materials like polycarbonate and high-density EVA foam, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of travel. For instance, the Lollimeow Pet Carrier Backpack combines this innovative design with practicality, offering ventilation holes and soft-padded interiors.

Balancing Comfort and Visibility in Capsule Carriers

Maintaining a balance between comfort and visibility is essential in capsule carriers. Cats appreciate the spacious interiors, which provide ample room to move around, stretch, and relax. The clear bubble windows cater to their curiosity, reducing anxiety by allowing them to observe their surroundings. Many capsule carriers, such as the PETRIP Cat Backpack Carrier, include additional mesh panels for improved airflow, padded shoulder straps for your comfort, and ergonomic designs that distribute weight evenly, making them perfect for long journeys.

Conclusion

Choosing the right carrier for your cat is essential for safe and stress-free travel. Whether you’re looking for a hardshell, soft-sided, backpack, or even a designer option, there’s a perfect carrier out there for your feline friend. Airline-approved carriers ensure compliance with travel regulations, while expandable and capsule carriers offer innovative solutions for comfort and visibility. Prioritize your cat’s comfort and safety, and you’ll find the ideal carrier that meets both your needs and your cat’s preferences. Happy travels!