Looking for the best carrier for your cat? Keep reading for our top ten picks. Whether you want something for vet visits, traveling, or fun days out, we’ve taken a deep dive into the market to bring you the best cat carriers around, with different needs in mind – and comfort, security, and practicality at the forefront.
That said, the comfort and safety of your cat are our first priority, so please make sure the carrier you buy is the right size for them and that they can stand, move about, and lie down in it with ease. You should also familiarise yourself with the different types of cat carriers and pick one that suits your needs and your cat’s temperament.
For example, hard-sided carriers offer the most security in cars and busy places, whilst soft-sided carriers provide the most comfort for calm environments and calm cats. Backpacks and rollers offer flexible, easier alternatives to regular carriers, and those that double up as car seats or come airline-approved are best for transport travel.
For long trips, consider using a GPS tracker for your cat’s carrier or collar for extra security, and check out our cat travel essentials checklist to make sure you’ve got everything you need before you go! With all that being said, let’s get on to our list!
The PetLuv Premium Soft-Sided Cat Carrier offers cozy bedding, ample ventilation, and convenient, large windows for easy access, making travel comfortable and stress-free for your cat. Its durable, lightweight design is ideal for both short trips and longer adventures, ensuring safety and comfort every step of the way.
The Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Cat Carrier offers stylish comfort for travel by plane, car, or vet visits. With a flexible frame for under-seat fit, mesh ventilation, locking zippers, an adjustable shoulder strap, and a washable faux lambskin liner, it keeps your pet secure and cozy. Rear pocket and seatbelt strap add extra convenience and safety.
The Gen7Pets Geometric Roller Cat Carrier Backpack offers comfort and stability with its Smart-Level Platform, Smart-Comfort Pad, and breathable mesh. Featuring top and front access, side storage pockets, and hide-away backpack straps, it’s ideal for secure, easy travel. Designed to meet most airline regulations.
The Happy Ride® Backpack Pet Carrier lets you take your cat or dog along for every adventure. With room for pets up to 20 pounds, it features mesh windows for ventilation, a cushioned floor pad for comfort, and adjustable straps for a secure fit. Whether you're walking or driving, this carrier provides a safe, stylish, and convenient way to travel with your furry friend.
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The Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Cat Travel Bed & Carrier combines style and function, ideal for in-cabin air travel and car rides. With a trolley pocket for luggage attachment, mesh tabs for a cozy space, and adjustable length to fit under airline seats, this carrier keeps your pet safe and comfortable on the go.
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Top Picks
- Best Overall – PetLuv Premium Soft-Sided Cat & Dog Carrier
- Best Airline-Approved Cat Carrier – Sherpa Airline-Approved Dog & Cat Carrier
- Best Rolling Carrier – Gen7Pets Geometric Roller Smart-Level Dog & Cat Carrier
- Best Backpack Carrier – PetSafe Happy Ride Backpack Pet Carrier
- Best In Cabin Air Travel – Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Cat & Dog Travel Bed & Carrier
- Best Multi-Cat Carrier – Sport Pet Cat Carrier
- Best For Car Travel – Frisco Travel Safety Dog & Cat Carrier
- Best For Hiking – Travel Cat Navigator Carrier Bag
- Best Luxury Option – Katziela Luxury Rider Pro Dog & Cat Carrier Bag
- Best Hard Shell Cat Carrier – Petmate 2 Door Top Load Carrier
Also in this article
Best Overall: PetLuv Premium Soft-Sided Cat Carrier
The PetLuv Premium Soft-Sided Cat Carrier is our top overall pick for its fantastic quality and excellent design that incorporates multi-use practicality with convenience, and security with cat comfort. It comes in two sizes for different cats and three colors; navy, tan, and red. Both sizes hold up to 45 lbs and feature car seat belt loops to double up as a car seat.
Key features:
- Small (20 x 13 x 13”) or large (24 x 16 x 16”)
- Small weighs 7 lbs, large weighs 9 lbs
- Both hold up to 45 lbs
- Navy, tan, red options
- Car seat belt loops
- Multiple entry points
- Rollable 360° heavy duty mesh windows
- Opaque flaps for nighttime and anxiety
- Strong locking zippers
- Thick plush removable pad
- Premium water-resistant fabric
- Reinforced seams
- Padded and adjustable shoulder strap
- Storage pocket
- Collapsible design
- Machine washable
What we like: It’s clearly designed with easy access and visibility in mind, with rollable panoramic mesh windows, all of which double up as entry points. You can also place your cat in the carrier via the top of the carrier, and all of the entry points are secured with strong, locking zippers. The windows even feature optional opaque flaps that can be rolled over the top of the mesh ones for nighttime privacy and anxious cats.
It’s made from premium water-resistant nylon and canvas fabric, with a reinforced seam and thick, durable, heavy-duty mesh that can resist scratching and biting. The collapsible design makes storing and transporting the carrier a breeze when it’s not in use and it’s machine washable for cleaning.
It’s also spacious and comfy, with a 2-inch thick plush removable double-sided pad, and it’s not just convenient for your cat! It has an adjustable shoulder strap so that you can customize it to your body, with a padded handle and an extra pocket for carrying essentials.
What to consider: There’s not a lot to consider with this product. A couple of buyers had issues with the zippers, but overall it’s great value for money.
The PetLuv Premium Soft-Sided Cat Carrier offers cozy bedding, ample ventilation, and convenient, large windows for easy access, making travel comfortable and stress-free for your cat. Its durable, lightweight design is ideal for both short trips and longer adventures, ensuring safety and comfort every step of the way.
Best Airline-Approved Cat Carrier: Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Dog & Cat Carrier Bag
The Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Dog & Cat Carrier Bag is our top air-line approved cat carrier for jet-setting kitties. It comes in two sizes, medium and large, with a comfy black mesh design.
Key features:
- Approved for use on most airlines
- Medium (17 x 11 x 10.5”) or large (19 x 11.75 x 11.5”)
- Medium weighs 7.25 kgs, large weighs 10 kg
- Medium holds 16 lbs, large holds 22 lbs
- Black mesh design
- Patented spring wire frame
- Wooden stability board
- Weatherproof lining
- Top and side entry
- Locking zippers
- Car seat belt strap
- Removable and washable faux lambskin liner
- Detachable non-slip carrying straps
- Rear storage pocket
What we like: The carrier is supported by a wooden stability board wrapped in waterproof lining for weatherproof travel. It also has top and side entry for quick access and locking zippers for safety. It’s super comfy with a faux lambskin liner that’s removable and machine washable for effortless upkeep and has a seat belt strap to accommodate your trip to the airport – as well as any other car journeys you may take!
The patented spring wire frame allows the rear end of the carrier to be pushed down to conform to under-seat dimensions on flights, and the detachable carrying strap is non-slip to make you feel secure carrying it around, even if you’re in a hurry. It also has a rear pocket for storing essentials, perfect for long flights!
What to consider: The small-sized carrier is approved for American Airlines, AirTran Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Southwest Airlines, U.S. Airways, United Airlines, Air Canada Airlines, and West Jet Airlines. The medium carrier is approved for American Airlines, United Airlines, and Air Canada Airlines.
The Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Cat Carrier offers stylish comfort for travel by plane, car, or vet visits. With a flexible frame for under-seat fit, mesh ventilation, locking zippers, an adjustable shoulder strap, and a washable faux lambskin liner, it keeps your pet secure and cozy. Rear pocket and seatbelt strap add extra convenience and safety.
Best Rolling Carrier: Gen7Pets Geometric Roller Smart-Level Dog & Cat Carrier
The Gen7Pets Geometric Roller Smart-Level Cat Carrier is our top roller pick! It literally takes the weight off of having to carry your cat. It’s also ideal for walks with housebound cats and fun days out with your feline friend and kills two birds with one stone when it comes to overnight trips, as it has two large storage pockets for essentials.
Key features:
- 11.5 x 18.5 x 19 inches
- Weighs 6.8 lbs
- Holds up to 20 lbs
- Red geometric design
- Smart-level platform
- Mesh windows
- Top and front entry
- Interior safety tethers
- Car seatbelt strap
- Collapsible handle
- Smart comfort pad
- Doubles up as a backpack
- Two storage pockets
What we like: It meets most airline regulations and includes a car seatbelt strap to double up as a car seat, as well as a collapsable handle and hideaway straps to triple up as a backpack for hands-free carrying!
The cute red carrier has breathable mesh windows for visibility, with top and front zipper doors for easy access, and interior safety tethers for security. It also has a smart-level platform to prevent tipping over when standing unsupported and a smart comfort pad for cozy travels.
What to consider: While it provides ample ventilation and two doors for easy loading, the kennel feels a bit narrow, which might be snug for some cats who could benefit from a bit more stability. For quieter travel or short distances, it’s worked well and keeps my pet secure.
The Gen7Pets Geometric Roller Cat Carrier Backpack offers comfort and stability with its Smart-Level Platform, Smart-Comfort Pad, and breathable mesh. Featuring top and front access, side storage pockets, and hide-away backpack straps, it’s ideal for secure, easy travel. Designed to meet most airline regulations.
Best Backpack Carrier: Pet Safe Happy Ride Backpack Pet Carrier
The Pet Safe Happy Ride Backpack Pet Carrier is our top backpack pick for hands-free carrying. It’s 12 x 13 x 17 inches, supports up to 20 lbs, and it’s made from high-quality polyester and nylon. It also comes in a stylish navy blue and grey design with cute brown leather accents.
Key features:
- 12 x 13 x 17 inches
- Weighs 5 lbs
- Supports up to 20 lbs
- Blue and gray with brown leather accents
- High-quality polyester and nylon
- Pre-installed fiber-glass rods & honeycomb support
- Rollable mesh window
- Adjustable padded straps
- Self-standing design
- Easy to deconstruct and clean
- Satisfaction Guarantee
What we like: The backpack carrier is super convenient, allowing you to transport your cat anywhere hands-free, with adjustable padded chest and shoulder straps for ultimate comfort. It has rollable mesh windows for visibility, ventilation, and quick access, as well as an interior harness for your cat’s security.
The stable fiberglass structure also makes it ideal for travel as it can stand up alone if you need to put it down, and it can be fastened to seatbelts for car journeys. It comes fully constructed for stress-free unboxing and it’s simple to take apart for cleaning. There’s also a handy pocket for treats and essentials during travel and trips out.
What to consider: It’s quite pricey for a smaller carrier but does provide multiple uses and comes with a satisfaction guarantee.
Full review: Read our full review here!
The Happy Ride® Backpack Pet Carrier lets you take your cat or dog along for every adventure. With room for pets up to 20 pounds, it features mesh windows for ventilation, a cushioned floor pad for comfort, and adjustable straps for a secure fit. Whether you're walking or driving, this carrier provides a safe, stylish, and convenient way to travel with your furry friend.
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Best In Cabin Air Travel: Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Cat & Dog Travel Bed & Carrier
The Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Cat Travel Bed & Carrier is our top pick for in-cabin air travel, compressing from 22 to 16 inches in length to fit under most airline seats. It’s also lightweight at 4 lbs and supports up to 18 lbs in weight.
Key features:
- Suitable for in-cabin use
- 22 x 10.5 x 10.5 inches
- Weighs 4 lbs
- Supports up to 18 lbs
- Comes in orange, blue, green, and grey
- Fits under most airline seats
- Trolley pocket
- Car-safe
- Machine washable
What we like: The design takes your entire airport journey into account, with a trolley pocket for securing onto luggage. It’s also car-safe and features tabs that hold the mesh panels open to create a cozy sleeping space for overnight trips and long journeys. It comes in four attractive colors; orange dream, robin egg blue, charcoal grey, and olive green, so you can find something to suit your taste, and it’s machine washable for hassle-free upkeep.
What to consider: Whilst it’s suitable for most breeds, it may be too small for extra-large cats.
The Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Cat Travel Bed & Carrier combines style and function, ideal for in-cabin air travel and car rides. With a trolley pocket for luggage attachment, mesh tabs for a cozy space, and adjustable length to fit under airline seats, this carrier keeps your pet safe and comfortable on the go.
Best Multi-Cat Carrier: Sport Pet Cat Carrier
The Sport Pet Cat Carrier is our top pick for multi-cat parents; it’s extra large at 18 x 23 x 17 inches and holds up to 35 lbs, yet it’s lightweight at only 6 lbs and comes in a grey and green design.
Key features:
- 18 x 23 x 17 inches
- Weighs 6 lbs
- Holds up to 35 lbs
- Grey and green design
- High-quality ABS and PC plastic
- Slit design for ventilation
- Extra large opening
- Removable door
- Easy to assemble and clean
- Collapsible for storage
What we like: It’s made from high-quality ABS and PC plastic with an extra large opening and a removable door for accessibility. The 360° slit design keeps it breathable and gives cats visibility on long trips, and the hard material makes it easy to wipe down and keep clean in-between uses. It’s also hassle-free to put together and fold up for convenient transport and storage.
What to consider: Whilst it’s super roomy, owners will need to invest in a pad that fits inside the carrier for comfort on long trips.
The SportPet X-Large Cat Carrier provides roomy comfort with an extra-large, removable-door opening for easy access. Capable of holding multiple cats up to 35 lbs, it’s sturdy yet folds flat for convenient storage. Ideal for safe, secure, and spacious travel for cats and other small animals.
Best For Car Travel: Frisco Travel Safety Dog & Cat Carrier
The Frisco Travel Safety Cat Carrier is our top pick for car travel, making trips in the car extra safe and stable. It comes in two sizes with a black mesh design and a simple three-step setup with car seat loops and anchors for worry-free rides.
Key features:
- Medium (29.5 x 22 x 25.5”) or large (29.5 x 22 x 25.5”)
- Medium weighs 5.11 lbs, large weighs 6.35 lbs
- Medium holds 30 lbs, large holds 50 lbs
- Black mesh design
- 3-step setup for car travel
- Car seat loops and anchors
- Triple entryways
- Mesh windows
- Soft padded mat
- Easy to clean
- Folds flat for storage
What we like: The triple entryways on the front and sides have mesh windows for visibility and zips for fast access and security. It comes with a soft padded mat for your cat’s comfort, which can be removed and cleaned in the washing machine for effortless maintenance, it’s made by popular pet company Chewy’s own brand, so you know you can trust it! It’s also great value for money and folds flat for straightforward storage.
What to consider: Some owners of scratchy cats had issues with the durability of the mesh windows, and a few buyers said it had a chemical smell upon unboxing, which went away with a quick clean.
The Frisco Travel Safety Dog & Cat Carrier ensures a secure, comfortable car ride for your pet. With a quick three-step setup, mesh sides for visibility, and fold-flat storage, this carrier is both convenient and road-trip ready. Designed by Chewy experts, it’s easy to clean and ideal for keeping your pet safe on the go.
Best For Hiking: Travel Cat Navigator Carrier Bag
The Travel Cat Navigator Carrier Bag is our top pick for lovers of outdoor adventures. The stylish grey design is 15 x 11 x 17 inches and holds up to 25 lbs. It also doubles up as a backpack and is in line with most airline pet-flying policies.
Key features:
- 15 x 11 x 17 inches
- Weighs 2 kg
- Holds up to 25 lbs
- Stylish grey design
- Doubles up as a backpack
- Zippered top-entry
- Claw-resistant mesh
- Sun-roof style top window
- Built-in internal clip
- Removable comfort mat
- Adjustable straps with safety buckles
- In line with most airlines
What we like: As mentioned above, the cat travel carrier transforms into a backpack for hands-free carrying and has a built-in clip inside for security. It also has a zippered top entry with claw-resistant mesh windows on all sides and a sunroof-style window at the top. It comes with a removable mat for comfy trips and has robust, adjustable shoulder, chest, and waist straps with safety buckles for secure use.
What to consider: Although it’s in line with most airline pet-flying policies according to the brand, they still recommend checking with individual airlines before taking it on board a flight.
The Travel Cat Navigator Carrier Bag is a durable, functional backpack designed for comfort and convenience on any adventure. With scratch-resistant mesh, spacious side pockets, and dual entrances, it offers easy access, visibility, and ventilation. Ideal for hikes and city strolls, it includes a water reservoir pocket and secure clips for multiple pets, making it the perfect travel companion for pet owners on the go.
Best Luxury Option: Katziela Luxury Rider Pro Dog & Cat Carrier Bag
The Katziela Luxury Rider Pro Cat Carrier Bag is our top pick for lovers of luxury. It comes in seven colors, including black with red accents and pink with white accents. It’s also lightweight, spacious at 19 x 13 x 15 inches, and holds up to 22 lbs.
Key features:
- 19 x 13 x 15 inches
- Weighs 8 lbs
- Holds up to 22 lbs
- Comes in seven colors
- 360° mesh including the top
- Top and dual-side entry with zips
- Built-in safety leash
- Fleece-lined soft mattress pad
- Removable and machine washable pad
- Telescopic side handle
- Comfort-grip top handle
- Compresses to fit under seats
- Zippered storage pockets
- Six removable wheels
- TSA-approved
What we like: It offers truly 360° views and ventilation, with not only mesh window sides but a full mesh top. It also has a top and dual-sided entry with zipper closures and six removable wheels. The double telescopic side handle makes it easy to push on wheels and the top handle has a comfort strap for fatigue-free carrying without wheels.
It has a built-in safety leash for peace of mind and more security for your cat, with a removable, machine-washable fleece-lined mattress pad for a comfortable journey. The luxury carrier comes airline-approved, meeting TSA standards, and the standards of most airlines. It also compresses to save space and fit under airline seats, with zippered storage pockets for travel essentials.
What to consider: Some buyers had issues with the quality of the mesh and the wheels with larger pets, but overall it has excellent reviews.
The Katziela Luxury Rider Pro Cat Carrier Bag offers premium comfort and convenience for travel, featuring six removable wheels and a telescoping handle for easy airport navigation. With mesh windows for ventilation, a safety leash, and a soft, machine-washable mattress pad, it keeps your pet comfortable and secure. Its soft-sided design allows for under-seat placement on airplanes, making it ideal for flying with your furry friend.
Best Hard Shell Cat Carrier: Petmate 2 Door Top Load Carrier
The Petmate 2 Door Top Load Carrier is our top hard-sided cat carrier pick for its hardy structure and durable design. It comes in two colors, pearl ash blue and pearl tan with coffee ground, as well as two sizes with the same volume; one taller, one wider, both holding up to 15 lbs.
Key features:
- Tall (24 x 14 x 16”) or wide (24 x 16 x 14”)
- Weighs 2.38 kgs
- Holds up to 15 lbs
- Blue or brown options
- Hard plastic shell
- 360° ventilation
- Steel wire bar door
- Locks with a latch
- Front and top entry
- Ergonomic handle
- Simple assembly
- Airline compliant
What we like: The hardy plastic shell provides good protection and is easy to clean in between uses. The sides and back and pierced for all-round ventilation, with a steel wire bar door that secures via a latch at the front. It has a front and top entry for quick access and an ergonomic handle for comfortable carrying, and it’s very straightforward to put together.
What to consider: Whilst it meets most airline cargo specifications, the brand advises owners still check with individual airlines before using it for a flight.
The Petmate Two-Door Small Cat Kennel provides secure and stress-free travel with dual doors for easy access and 360-degree ventilation. Designed for pets up to 15 lbs, this airline-approved carrier is easy to assemble, with sturdy latches and a foldable handle for safe transport. Made from eco-friendly materials, it offers comfort and peace of mind for both pets and owners.
How to Use a Cat Carrier
Before taking your cat out in their carrier for the first time, try to get them used to it, especially if they’re naturally anxious to try new things. Place it somewhere in the home with the door open and encourage them to get in it with a treat. If they’re not sure, start by just spending time around it and letting them investigate it first.
Reward them and progress the experience by closing the door when they seem comfortable. Then, take your cat for a short walk in the carrier before going on a longer trip. Be sure to reward them every step of the way to make it a good experience, and consider putting a comfort item, such as their favorite toy or blanket in the carrier with them, or using a calming collar or spray if they’re anxious.
What to Consider When Buying a Cat Carrier
When buying a carrier for your cat, two of the most important things to consider are its size and weight capacity; it should be big enough for your cat to sit up, turn around, & lie down in, and sturdy enough to support the weight of your cat. It should also be lightweight enough for you to carry, and made from durable, high-quality materials with suitable ventilation and visibility.
Safety features like locks and quick access closures, plus soft linings and pads are crucial for your cat’s security and comfort. You should also look for ergonomic handles for your own comfort, as well as removable comfort features or hard surfaces for easy cleaning and maintenance.
You should consider the type of carrier you need as well; for example, a backpack for hands-free travel if you’re planning on hiking with your cat or carrying luggage at the same time, or a rolling carrier if you struggle to carry your pet traditionally.
Your cat’s temperament is also an important factor, as soft carriers with mesh windows could pose an escape risk if your cat tends to bite and scratch when they’re anxious, as well as your travel needs. For example, airline-approved carriers for air travel and carriers with car seat loops for car travel.
Other things to take into consideration are style, extra features like storage pockets, and special designs for specific needs such as multi-pet carrying. You should also look for things that are simple to assemble and collapsible or foldable for easy storage and portability.
FAQs
What size carrier should I get for my cat?
Your cat’s carrier should be big enough for them to comfortably stand, turn around, and lie down in. Generally, it should be about 1.5 times their size.
Are soft carriers safe for cats?
Soft cat carriers can pose an escape hazard, as the materials can be more easily scratched or bitten through. They also offer less protection in transit, So, whether or not they are safe for your cat can depend on your cat’s temperament and what you’re using it for.
How can I make my cat more comfortable in a carrier?
To make sure your cat feels comfortable in their carrier, do some practice to get them familiar with it and place a comfort item, like a favorite toy or blanket in the carrier. You can also try using a calming spray.
Is it necessary to get an airline-approved carrier for flying with my cat?
Yes, it’s necessary to use an airline-approved carrier to ensure it meets size and safety requirements – you don’t want to miss your flight!
What’s the best type of carrier for vet visits?
A hard-sided carrier is often the best for vet visits because they’re more secure and offer more protection, but it all depends on your cat’s temperament.
Are backpack carriers comfortable for cats?
Backpack carriers can be comfortable for cats as long as they’re well-ventilated and big enough for your cat to move around in. You should also do some trial runs to get your cat used to the backpack before you go on any significant trips. That said, some rescue pets have phobias of small spaces and that should be respected.
Can I use a cat carrier for long-distance travel?
Yes, you can use a cat carrier for long-distance travel, as long as it’s comfortable and well-ventilated, and you take comfort breaks for food, water, and litterbox use.
Final Thoughts
Those are our best cat carriers! Which one are you going to try for yourself? Be sure to let us know and share your best cat travel tips in the comments down below. If you’re looking for something with wheels, check out our list of the best cat strollers for more options.
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