What to Look for in a Cat Carrier
SIZE: As a general rule, your cat should have enough space to turn around and lie down. If you're planning to fly with your cat, though, then you'll also need to look for a carrier that meets airline requirements. The maximum dimensions for most airlines are 17 inches long, 10 to 12 inches wide and 7.5 to 11 inches high.
CONSTRUCTION: Materials matter! Hard cat carriers are typically more durable and easier to clean, while soft cat carriers are more lightweight, comfortable and convenient to store. Consider your cat's temperament and needs before committing to one style.
EXTRAS: For longer road trips or flights, we highly recommend looking for a cat carrier with added design features. Think seatbelt straps, pads or cushions, built-in water dishes and even litter boxes. These amenities will keep your pet comfortable until you reach your destination.
Best Cat Carrier Overall
You and your cat will love the Frisco Two-Door Top-Loading Carrier. It's easy to assemble (and even easier to wipe down) and provides a smooth ride to the vet's office or Grandma's house. What really sets the hard-side carrier apart from the rest, though, is the top-loading metal door. You can slip your cat inside and offer them treats or toys throughout your journey. Meanwhile, holes on all sides allow your pet to view their surroundings.
Frisco Two-Door Top-Loading Cat Carrier
$39.99 $37.96
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Buy ItBest Budget Cat Carrier
It's hard to beat a quality cat carrier for $15.99. The ZaneSun Soft-Sided Cat Carrier is cheaper than most, yet it still features all the bells and whistles: a durable Oxford cloth exterior, mesh panels for ventilation, an adjustable shoulder strap, zippered pockets for toys and collapsible food and water dishes. Plus, it comes in multiple sizes and colors.
ZaneSun Soft-Sided Cat Carrier
$15.99
Amazon
Buy ItBest Hard Cat Carrier
If you need a simple hard-side cat carrier to get from point A to point B, then snag the Doskocil Pet Taxi Kennel. This carrier is made from durable and eco-friendly materials, it's easy to assemble, and it comes in multiple sizes. Best of all? Thanks to the crate's hard plastic shell, you can quickly wipe down the interior and avoid any lingering odors.
Doskocil Pet Taxi Kennel
From $21.34
Walmart
Buy ItBest Soft Cat Carrier
There's no doubt about it: The Sherpa Original Deluxe Cat Carrier is the best soft-sided option on the market. Pet parents love its top hatch and side doors, breathable mesh windows, padded shoulder strap and faux-lambskin liner. (Just to name a few details.) The carrier is also equipped with a secret pocket for storage and a seatbelt strap for the car, and it's approved for use on most major airlines. It comes in two sizes as well.
Sherpa Original Deluxe Cat Carrier
$134 $39.99
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Buy ItBest Backpack Cat Carrier
Is there anything better than a cat in a bubble backpack? Bring your favorite feline on walks or trips to the farmers' market with the Henkelion Bubble Backpack Cat Carrier. The futuristic design features a transparent cover — so your cat can take in all the scenery — and large mesh pockets and nine holes for added breathability. The bestselling carrier also boasts adjustable shoulder straps and a safety belt for the car, and it comes in seven colors.
Henkelion Bubble Backpack Cat Carrier
$39.99
Amazon
Buy ItBest Cat Carrier for Kittens
The reviews don't lie: Rambunctious kittens love the Necoichi Ultralite Pop-Up Cat Carrier. (Probably because it reminds them of a play tent.) The carrier is made from soft yet scratch-resistant fabric and features two top handles, mesh sides and large windows for ventilation. Best of all? This carrier folds completely flat for easy storage after a trip to the vet's office.
Necoichi Ultralite Pop-Up Cat Carrier
$23.19
Walmart
Buy ItBest Dual Cat Carrier
Unless you're traveling with kittens or a bonded pair, your cats should be placed in separate carriers. Enter the PawHut Soft-Sided Double Carrier. This dark gray enclosure is actually two crates in one, with zippered side panels giving each pet their own "zone." What's more, each unit includes its own top handle and a front-facing mesh screen to keep the cat inside stable and comfortable. The twin compartments are also detachable in case you need to transport one animal. All in all, it's a great value.
PawHut Soft-Sided Double Cat Carrier
$149.99
Target
Buy ItBest Expandable Cat Carrier
For cats who need a little more room, we highly recommend the Siivton Expandable Cat Carrier. At first glance, this carrier looks like a duffel bag with its Oxford cloth exterior and convenient shoulder straps. But inside, it's outfitted with an easy-to-wipe-down polyester liner and a soft suede cushion. Your cat can peek through the top window, or you can unzip all four sides and give them twice as much space to enjoy.
Siivton Expandable Cat Carrier
$39.99
Amazon
Buy ItBest Cat Carrier for Cars
Fact: Car rides are so much easier with the Vceoa Soft-Sided Cat Carrier. This duffel is as sturdy as they come, with a steel frame to hold it upright and an adjustable shoulder strap that can be attached to seatbelts. (Not to mention a scuff- and scratch-resistant exterior.) You can load your cat in through the top or the sides and even clip them to the interior safety leash for extra peace of mind. The carrier also includes a removable pad and a cozy fleece bed for longer drives.
Vceoa Soft-Sided Cat Carrier
$19.99
Amazon
Buy ItBest Cat Carrier for Planes
Looking for an airline-approved cat carrier? The Refrze Soft-Sided Cat Carrier is our top pick for a few reasons. First, it measures 17 inches long, 12 inches wide and 11 inches high, so it's virtually guaranteed to fit under the seat in front of you. The bag also features adjustable shoulder straps and a hidden "pocket," so you can carry it to your gate or slide it on top of your luggage. And finally, the cat carrier boasts four breathable mesh sides, an extra-soft (and washable) cushion and an attachable food dish for your furbaby.
Refrze Soft-Sided Cat Carrier
$31.99 $23.99
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Buy ItBest Cat Carrier for Long-Distance Travel
Your cat won't mind being in the car for hours on end when they're tucked inside the Necoichi Portable Cat Carrier. This soft-sided enclosure is as expansive as a crate, giving your cat plenty of room to stretch out in the backseat or cargo area. Meanwhile, the broad window flaps provide a detailed view of their favorite humans or surroundings. The Necoichi Carrier even includes a litter box and waterproof floor pad, so your cat can take care of business along the way.
Necoichi Portable Cat Carrier With Litter Box
$52.99 $37.97
Amazon
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Some cats are surprisingly outdoorsy. Make your next hiking or camping trip a total breeze with the Texsens Backpack Cat Carrier. The innovative design features an easy-enter side door, three breathable mesh windows and a removable cozy mat. (Not to mention a padded back and shoulder straps to keep you both comfortable.) The backpack also comes in five colors.What kind of carriers do cats prefer?
Do cats prefer soft or hard carriers?
What is the easiest carrier to get a cat into?
How do you get an unwilling cat into a cat carrier?