Our pets are a huge part of our lives. For many, they are like children to their pet parents.
Your cat is an important family member and therefore, may need to travel with you on a trip, or maybe you want them to feel safer while you are en route to the vet.
Purchasing a new carrier for your feline friend is a wonderful way to keep your pet safe and sound during traveling.
Taking your pet on a trip is already stressful so finding the right carrier can help calm and comfort your cat.
BEST CHOICE
Petego Pet Tube Kennel
Best Cat Carrier in Our Rating
- The Tube is easy to pack and transport in any kind of vehicle
- The item is equipped with convenient mounts for the rear seat of the car
- 2 product sizes for any pet
- Universal design and comfortable conditions for your pet inside the Tube
Selecting the Best Cat Carriers in January, 2025
| Product | Dimensions | Weight | Brand | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (Editor’s Choice) Petego Pet Tube Kennel  | 47 x 24 x 24 inches | 8 pounds | Petego | Check Price |
PetLuv Happy Pet Cat | 24 x 16 x 16 inches | 8.7 pounds | PetLuv | Check Price |
| (Editor’s Choice) Air In-Cabin Pet Carrier  | 22 x 10.5 x 10 inches | 4.9 pounds | Sleepypod | Check Price |
Sturdi Products | 20 x 12 x 16 inches | 3.2 pounds | Sturdi Products | Check Price |
Texsens Canvas Transparent | 13 x 9 x 15.7 inches | 4 pounds | Texsens | Check Price |
Deluxe Pet Carrier | 19 x 11.8 x 11.5 inches | 4 pounds | Sherpa | Check Price |
Giantex Astronaut Pet | 15.7 x 11.8 x 11 inches | 3.7 pounds | Giantex | Check Price |
Mr. Peanut's Pet Carrier | 18 x 10.5 x 11 inches | 2.7 pounds | Mr. Peanut's | Check Price |
Pet Travel Carrier | 17.5 x 10 x 11 inches | 2 pounds | Pawfect Pets | Check Price |
Pet Magasin Cat Carrier | 18 x 11 x 10 inches | 2.2 pounds | Pet Magasin | Check Price |
1. Petego Pet Tube Kennel : Best for Long Car Rides
The Petego Pet Tube Kennel is a lovely option for pet parents that need to take their cat on a car trip. As the name suggests, the Pet Tube Kennel is a cylindrically shaped tube. The carrier is adjustable, so it can be made smaller or larger as needed.
The tube attaches easily, so it stays safely secured to the backseat area of your car, truck, or SUV.
The Petego Pet Tube Kennel features a double claw proof lining to prevent tears.
- Adjustable to a smaller and a larger size
- Secures to standard car seats
- Vented for air to pass freely
- Easy to use and folds up flat
- Expensive
2. PetLuv Soothing Happy Cat Pet Carrier and Travel Crate : Best All Around Cat Carrier Selection
The PetLuv Soothing Happy Cat Pet Carrier and Travel Crate earned top marks from our testing team members. The carrier is soft sided, and the windows have been crafted from tear-resistant rubber mesh which will prevent any scratching or clawing accidents.
The carrier is very roomy with plenty of space for your cat to stretch out.
The PetLuv Soothing Happy Cat Pet Carrier and Travel Crate made our pet parents and cats feel extremely safe.
- Soft sided carrier is perfect for trips
- Several color options
- Easy to attach to car seat
- Very comfortable for cats
- This cat carrier was a huge hit with our testing team and we were hard pressed to find any negative qualities
3. Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Pet Carrier : Best for High Flying Felines
The Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Pet Carrier makes air travel with your favorite kitty a breeze. The carrier compresses from 22 inches in length to 16 inches. It also folds down flat for simplified storage.
The Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Pet Carrier meets TSA travel requirements for carry-on luggage.
This option is available in several lovely colors and has a trolley pocket to make catching your flight easier.
- Meets travel requirements
- Several different color choices available
- Comfortable to carry
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Expensive but well worth the price tag due to its wonderful features and construction quality
4. Sturdi Products Flexible Pet Carrier : Most Durable Choice for Cats that Like to Claw
The Sturdi Products Flexible Pet Carrier is the heaviest duty, moist durable cat carrier we had the privilege of testing. The carrier is constructed with a very strong 600-Denier polyester fabric which will provide both strength and comfort.
The carrier includes privacy flaps for cranky or shy kitties as well.
The Sturdi Products Flexible Pet Carrier is a terrific option for car travel as it quickly attaches to seatbelts.
- Heavy-duty 600-Denier polyester fabric
- Very durable and lightweight
- Safely attaches to car seat
- Perfect for nervous cats
- May not fit under some airline seats so be sure to double check measurements
5. Texsens Innovative Traveler Bubble Backpack : Best for Curious Kitties
The Texsens Innovative Traveler Bubble Backpack is a backpack style carrier for your cat. This carrier has a fun bubble window that allows your cat to sneak a peek at their surroundings anytime they feel inclined to do so.
Our testing team enjoyed using the carrier, and the comments we got from family and friends were wonderful.
The Texsens Innovative Traveler Bubble Backpack fits animals up to ten pounds in weight. Our testing team noticed that pets seem to either really love looking out the bubble window or they absolutely hate it and are scared.
- Allows your cat to see the world through a cute window
- Several color options
- Comfortable to wear and carry
- Its fun seeing a cat peeking out through the bubble window
- Not meant for pets over 10 pounds
- Some pets are terrified of the bubble window
6. Deluxe Pet Carrier by Sherpa : Best Luxury Option
The Deluxe Pet Carrier by Sherpa is a high-end selection to keep your cat sitting in the lap of luxury. It is a tad bit pricier than some other options, but it also features the softest lining available.
Our testing team loved using this choice for picky cats that place comfort as their highest priority.
The Deluxe Pet Carrier by Sherpa features a patented wire spring frame.
- Lots of storage space for pet items
- Mesh windows for adequate ventilation
- Fits under airplane seats easily thanks to its spring wire frame
- Easy to clean and maintain
- The bag was one of our favorites cat carrier selections with no bad qualities to mention
7. Giantex Astronaut Pet Space Capsule Backpack : Best for Pet Owner’s with a Terrific Sense of Humor
The Giantex Astronaut Pet Space Capsule Backpack is ready to take you and your cat on any intergalactic travels you may have in mind. Our testing team really enjoyed using this backpack carrier if for no other reason than the hilarious looks and comments we received while using it.
The backpack has a little window for your cat to peek out of which is absolutely adorable.
The Giantex Astronaut Pet Space Capsule Backpack features both a transparent window and a mesh one to help keep your cat happy.
- Great price
- Breathable carrier with a transparent window
- Perfect for smaller pets
- Fun to use and easy to care for
- Not meant for larger pets
- Some pets hated being inside of it and became afraid or aggressive
8. Mr. Peanut’s Airline Approved Soft-Sided Pet Carrier : Best Budget Price Cat Carrier
The Mr. Peanut’s Airline Approved Soft-Sided Pet Carrier is easy on your wallet while being perfect for your pet.
The bag is comfortable and meets the stringent requirements for airworthy pet carriers. The bed includes a plush faux fleece padding that is very cozy and great for calming nervous cats.
The Mr. Peanut’s Airline Approved Soft-Sided Pet Carrier comfortably houses pets up to 15 pounds in weight.
- Airline approved for carrying pets during flights
- Very well made and durable
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Compartments for pet’s essential items, food, medications, or toys
- Very soft and cozy faux fleece padding
- Will not accommodate larger pets
9. Pet Travel Carrier by Pawfect Pets : Best for Smaller Cats and Pets
The Pet Travel Carrier by Pawfect Pets fits easily under airline seats. This carrier can comfortably hold cats or dogs up to ten inches tall and 17 inches in length.
The bag is available in several colors and is created from reinforced fabric to prevent tears or rips.
The Pet Travel Carrier by Pawfect Pets features three access points. Pets may enter or exit through each end or on the side.
- Terrific price point
- Perfect for cats that love to scratch
- Very durable
- Easy to clean and care for
- Due to the sizing, it is meant for smaller cats or dogs
10. Pet Magasin Luxury Soft-Sided Pet Carrier : Great Inexpensive Option for Smaller Pets
The Pet Magasin Luxury Soft-Sided Pet Carrier is airline approved and measures at 18 inches in height and 11 in length, so it will be perfect for flying with smaller pets.
The bag holds its shape well when the end sections are zipper closed. The bag folds down flatly for saving space.
The Pet Magasin Luxury Soft-Sided Pet Carrier weighs a mere 2 pounds, making it a wonderful choice for individuals dealing with pain or mobility concerns.
- Terrific price point
- Perfect for smaller pets
- Very durable and super light at just two pounds
- Easy to clean and care for
- Due to the sizing, it is meant for smaller cats or dogs and will not work for larger pets
Best Cat Carrier – Buyer’s Guide
Finding the right carrier for your favorite feline may seem like a harder task than herding cats. There are thousands of cat carriers currently available for sale in a plethora of shapes and sizes, each claiming to be the best. With so many choices, locating the best one for you and your cat can turn into a headache rather fast.
While testing out the top carriers, we learned a ton of helpful information about cat carriers. We would like to pass that information on to you to assist you in making an informed choice. Let’s look at the most important considerations for finding the right cat carrier.
Do I Need a Carrier for my Cat?
If you are planning to take your cat out into the world, a carrier is supremely helpful. Cats aren’t very fond of traveling in most cases. The use of a quality pet carrier can make trips safer for you and your cat.
A durable and cozy cat carrier is a must-have if you will be flying the friendly skies with your kitty in tow. Many carriers fit under airline seats or are able to be attached to your car’s seats to make trips easier and less stressful. A carrier can also assist in keeping your pet from bolting off when you stop for gas and can keep your pet safer from the risk of injury in case of an accident making a cat carrier an essential item to keep in your current pet care arsenal.
Key Considerations
There are many important features that can make traveling with your pet safer and more pleasant. Let’s get a better understanding of what specifications are necessary and which are overkill.
- Size: Sizing is always an important consideration. If you have a smaller carrier but a large cat, your cat will not be comfy or may not even fit. Always measure your pet first, and then keep the measurements in mind. A helpful rule of thumb to remember lies in selecting an option that your pet can stand up and turn around in. This will ensure their comfort and their safety.
- Security: You want your cat to feel secure in the carrier. You also want it to be secure, so they will not be able to escape it easily. Look for mesh panels to ventilate that also zip into place to prevent your pet from getting out of the carrier. Hard-sided options may allow your pet to feel more secure, but they can be more difficult to travel with, and they could potentially take up more room.
- Nutrition: If you are simply traveling ten minutes to a vet check-up, then you may not need to be concerned with food and water. If you are embarking on a long trip, you will definitely need a way to keep your cat full and hydrated. Some carriers provide food and water containers, and some do not. Don’t forget to plan ahead.
- Handles: Carting your cat around can get cumbersome quickly. Look for pet carriers with ergonomic handles, padded handles, or adjustable shoulder straps. Some options may even have trolley wheels to allow for simplified transport. Making sure that you select a carrier that will be easy and comfortable to carry will help you to avoid dropping your pet or causing yourself unnecessary back or shoulder pain.
- Ventilation: A pet carrier needs to be adequately ventilated to allow air to move through the carrier. This is also important during the summer months. In hotter weather, adequate ventilation will keep your kitty cooler and avoid overheating.
- Entry and Exit Points: Some of our testing team members mentioned that wrangling a cat into a pet carrier could be an Olympic sport. As a result, selecting a cat carrier with easy access points is of the utmost importance. We like using carriers with multiple access points for difficult cats.
- Care and Maintenance: Cats can easily have an accident while in their carrier. This is especially true on longer trips. To expedite cleaning, you can tuck some puppy training pads on the bottom base. You should also select a carrier that can be washed in the washing machine or that breaks down quickly for easier cleaning.
The Different Styles of Cat Carriers
Next, let’s take a peek at the different types of pet carriers available for you and your cat.
Backpack Style Carriers:
Backpack style carriers are worn like a backpack. This is a great option for individuals with back pain or mobility concerns. This version is usually thinner, so they may not be the best option for larger cat breeds.
Airline Approved Animal Carriers:
Cat carriers that have been airline approved to take the guesswork out of flying with your kitty. They have been constructed to fit as a carry-on item. These bags usually squeeze under the seat in front of you thanks to a special wore frame that can collapse down slightly without hurting or annoying your pet.
Soft Side Carriers:
Soft side pet carriers are terrific for traveling. Rather than having hard or rigid sides, the carriers are made from fabric. The bag may have a frame that helps keep its shape. This version is great since it usually folds down flat for storage and is a good idea for anyone short of storage space.
Rolling Carriers:
A rolling carrier is similar to luggage that has trolley wheels. They are easily pulled as you walk. Some cats hate being wheeled around so it may take a while for them to get used to being inside of it and moving around.
What if I have Two Cats? Can I Use One Large Cat Carrier?
If you own multiple cats you may be tempted to purchase one larger carrier. While this may seem like a more economically sound and feasible plan, we will caution you against it. Cats are very territorial. They can grow upset when put into new situations such as traveling.
If you place more than one cat together in one carrier, you could end up with a cat fight. Even the sweetest kitties can have a bad day, especially after a visit to the vet. Placing each cat in its own carrier will prevent fighting and aggression.
Cat carriers are made in every imaginable style and shade. They are a very helpful tool for keeping your cat safe and calm during travel. Finding the best cat carrier for you and your pet is simple when keeping your needs, sizing, and budget at the forefront of your mind.
We hope you learned some new and helpful information today about selecting the best cat carrier for you and your fluffy friend. Hearing back from our loyal readers is the highlight of our day! Drop us a quick note below with your thoughts on the best cat carriers and any travel tips for our feline friends.
As my cat makes everything dirty around her, I find it difficult to choose a good cat carrier. But finally, I found Deluxe Pet Carrier by Sherpa. I can wash it using only water so recommend it to all lazy owners like me.
The problem that I have with a new cat carrier as it doesn’t suit the seats in planes. It was an unpleasant surprise when we were on our journey to Italy. Now I think of returning it to the shop and maybe finding something better.
I like that Petego Pet Tube Kennel is adjustable for any pet size which gives me an opportunity to carry all my pets, and I have two dogs and a cat. Recommend to those who have the same situation and want to pay money for something durable.
My cat behaved like of Anna Akana’s cats in the video about Giantex Astronaut Pet Space Capsule Backpack. He was afraid of sitting in this cat carrier and couldn’t use to even when a couple of months went by. So I had to change it to another one.
I use cat carriers every time I visit the vet, and now my visits are more often than they were before. So, my goal now is to find the most convenient option which looks attractive at the same time.
Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Pet Carrier is so comfortable to carry and easy to clean that I can’t be silent about it. If you’re looking for a really good option and ready to pay reasonable money for it – this option will satisfy you.
I bought Texsens Innovative Traveler Bubble Backpack just because it looks funny, it was the main thing I was looking at. So now I’m still looking only on this criterion and can’t say anything about the quality and durability.
I’ve never seen a carrier in which a cat isn’t stressed and terrified. I don’t know why but it seems like it doesn’t matter which carrier you buy, it depends on your cat’s mood and other conditions whether it’s a good carrier or not.
All cat carriers have their disadvantages but thank your article, it’s easier to find out them before the purchase. Hope, that I’ve ordered a great product.
I use the Air In-Cabin Pet Carrier for my dog because of one important reason – it’s really easy to clean this cat carrier. You should spend not more than 10 minutes to wash it, and it’s important for me.
Bag number 7 really makes your pet an astronaut! ha-ha But it’s better not to send him flying! By the way, this is a cool option when you ride a bicycle with your pet. He can see everything and at the same time he is safe
We are planning a trip in January, ordered The Sleepypod Air In-Cabin Pet Quarry. The main argument in favor of this option was the presence of a heating pad, it will come in handy for my sphynx cat))
Wow, how awesome this Texsens Innovative Traveler Bubble Backpack is! My little cat peeks out of this window and reminds me of a little astronaut in a spacesuit! Well, just cute!
A large additional bonus of Petego is that it can accommodate a litter tray making things much easier to deal with in those certain situations.
Fantastic PetEgo tunnel to protect our 2 Shih Tzu’s on the back seat of our Volvo 4×4. Very robust, good zips.
Colour of PetLuv Happy Pet Cat is vibrant, canvas material is thick and strong, zips work well and haven’t broken, and all sticking remains intact despite being subjected to the occasional episode of puppy zoomies. Cool thing!
PetLuv Happy Pet Cat is very well. it was easy to wash the fleecy mat in the bottom (just took the foam out from inside and re-inserted afterwards) and the other surfaces just wiped clean. Recommended
Sturdi Products is perfect for my 2 little dogs. One is 2.5lbs & the other is 3.5lbs. They can be comfortably on their own yet with the comfort of having the other one close.
Sturdi Products is an Incredible travel bag! Make sure you get the large, double sided so you have access from both ends and both sides on top. Big enough to put two cats in one if they don’t like being separated during travel. Fit great in the cabin of planes too!
Sturdi Products is Incredible travel bag! Make sure you get the large, dbl sided so you have access from both ends and both sides on top. Big enough to put two cats in one if they don’t like being separated during travel. Fit great in the cabin of planes too!
Sturdi Products is top of the line for cat carriers. The quality of the materials is right up there. The attention to detail, everything has been considered. It also has the ability to change the height without collapsing on our cat.
I do think Sturdi Products is priced a bit high, however it is the only bag we’ve found in the UK that will fit our French Bulldog and also meets the requirements so that he can be by our feet for a flight.
Great Sherpa carrier and my mom’s 16 pound Pomeranian fit in no problem and was no problem fitting under the seat with Air Canada flight to Newfoundland.