Looking for the best way to take your cat on vacation with you, or perhaps just a short trip across town?

We know that traveling with a cat can be difficult, which is why we've put together this review for five of the best cat carriers. These carriers will keep your kitty safe and comfortable, and they're all easy to carry with you wherever you go.

No matter where your travels take you, there is a perfect cat carrier for you. Choose from a variety of sizes and styles to find the perfect fit for your feline friend. And don't worry - we have evaluated cat carriers for budget-conscious cat owners too!

We hope you enjoy the following product reviews. All products we evaluate are carefully chosen from among the best currently available. We may, in some cases, receive samples for hands-on evaluation - but all opinions noted in this article are ours alone. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made by our readers. Thank you for visiting us today!

How We Pick the Best Cat Carrier

You love your cat, but traveling with them can be a hassle.

It's no secret that traveling with your cat can be difficult. Between trying to find a pet-friendly hotel and dealing with the stress of having your furry friend in a new environment, it's easy to see why so many people choose to leave their cats behind when they travel.

We want to help make traveling with your cat easier for you. That's why we've put together this comprehensive guide to the best cat carriers on the market today.

We have chosen five of the best cat carriers available, please read on to learn more.

Best Construction Overall

Vceoa Carriers Soft-Sided Pet Carrier for Cats

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What We Like About It

The carrier features a steel support structure that is foldable, making it extra safe for your pet in case of any accidental bumps or drops. The soft sides of the carrier provide a cozy and comfortable space for your cat to relax in, while the mesh panels ensure plenty of ventilation. We like the sturdiness of the steel frame.

One Minute Pet Tips

This cat carrier is definitely built to last. With metal supports along the side edges and entrance, as well as thick and tough canvas sides, you can be confident that this carrier will stand up to everyday wear and tear.

The netting is also strong and thick, so you don't have to worry about it tearing or ripping. Your pet should be safe and sound in this cat carrier.

Steel Frame Carrier Expands Easily

Petseek Extra Large Cat Carrier Soft Sided

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What We Like About It

This cat carrier is built from high-quality Oxford fabric. This type of fabric is quite wear-resistant and easy to clean.

The nylon mesh is resistant to tearing and provides ventilation, so your cat will stay cool and comfortable during transport.

Plus, the extra-large size means there's plenty of room for your cat to move around. Whether you're taking a long car trip or just going to the vet, the Petseek Extra Large Cat Carrier should serve you well.

One Minute Pet Tips

We like this cat carrier! The construction is sturdy, and it's very simple to snap the bars in place. it's one of the few collapsible crates we've seen that has a shoulder strap and handles with clips for the zippers.

The only issue we see is that the fabric is a little thinner than desirable, so it can tend to snag. Overall, though, it is one of the best cat carrier products that we have seen.

Best Large Cat Carrier

One for Pets Portable 2-in-1 Double Pet Kennel/Shelter

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What We Like About It

This kennel is quite large and versatile, whether you have two cats who need their own space or one big cat who needs a lot of room to stretch out. The kennel is also great for traveling - just detach the two halves, if desired, and you have two single kennels that are easy to transport.

The double kennel can also be used as two connected but divided compartments. This is perfect for when you have two pets that need to be separated.

The center zipper unzips to create one big space. This is ideal for when you are taking your pet on a trip and need a roomy place for them to stay for a longer period.

This kennel is made from high-quality materials and is built to last. It is also easy to assemble and disassemble, making it a solid choice for pet owners on the go.

One Minute Pet Tips

We noticed that several verified users mentioned some common "pros" about this cat carrier that we would like to share.

1)  It is large enough for three cats if needed

2)  It is sturdy and holds up well in use

3)  It is the perfect width to fit most luggage carts

4)  It is built with lots of mesh for the cats to see out of

5)  Overall it is comfortable and works well on long trips

Airline Approved Cat Carrier

Akinerri Soft-Sided Collapsible Pet Travel Carrier

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What We Like About It

This carrier is perfect for on-the-go pet owners who want to take their cats with them without any hassle. It's easy to set up and collapse flat for storage, so you can take it with you wherever you go.

Made from durable materials, this carrier features mesh panels for ventilation and a top zip opening for easy access. Plus, it comes with a comfortable padded shoulder strap for hands-free carrying.

One Minute Pet Tips

The best thing about this cat carrier is that it is very easy to transport. It also has a shoulder strap. The bottom piece that gives support to the carrier is covered in a carpet-like material. The support piece slides in and out and you can remove the covering to throw it in the wash. Easy to clean.

Some cat carriers we have seen seem bulky and harder to carry around. This one is right in the middle because it's not too big or too small. We feel this carrier is a good value, not necessarily the best cat carrier out there but definitely deserves consideration based on overall value and price.

Easiest To Get Cat In And Out

Sport Pet Designs Foldable Travel Cat Carrier

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What We Like About It

Looking for a travel carrier that's specifically designed for cats? This carrier features a large A-Frame opening that makes it super easy to get your cat in and out, and the durable design means it can stand up to even the most rambunctious kitties.

Plus, the foldable design makes it easy to store when not in use. Whether you're headed on a road trip or taking a quick trip to the vet, this carrier will help keep your cat safe and comfortable.

One Minute Pet Tips

We like that the body of this carrier is made from impact-resistant polypropylene. The A-Frame construction is very handy, as it makes a big difference when you are putting the cat into the carrier.  It is much easier than using the common top-loading cat carrier.

The latch and door are high-strength premium polycarbonate. A bonus is that this cat carrier folds down for storage rather easily. Overall a solid value.

Cat Carrier FAQs

You want to get a new cat carrier, but you're not sure which one is best for your needs.

A lot of people feel overwhelmed when trying to choose the best cat carrier. There are so many different types and brands available, it can be hard to know where to start.

We've compiled this list of the most frequently asked questions about cat carriers to help you make the best decision. Whether you're looking for a soft-sided carrier or a hard-shell carrier, we have the information you need to make the right choice.

Do cats prefer hard or soft carriers?

There isn't a definitive answer to this question since cats can be quite individual in their preferences, but generally speaking, most cats seem to prefer hard cat carriers over soft-sided cat carriers.

The main reason for this is that soft-sided carriers can be quite snug and may feel restrictive to cats, while hard carriers provide more of a sense of freedom and space.

Additionally, many cats seem to enjoy being able to see their surroundings and feel more secure when they're able to observe what's going on around them.

What is the best way to get a cat into a carrier?

The best way to get a cat into a carrier is to make the carrier as comfortable and inviting as possible.

You can start by lining the bottom of the cat carrier with a soft blanket or towel. Then place a few of your cat's favorite toys inside, along with some treats. Finally, give your cat a little scratch behind the ears to let them know that getting in the carrier is a good idea.

If your cat still isn't too keen on going into the carrier, try placing it next to them while they're resting on their bed or in another comfortable spot. Gradually move the carrier closer and closer until your cat is comfortable getting inside. And always reward them with lots of praise when they finally do!

How long can cats be in cat carriers safely?

It really depends on the cat and the carrier. But a good rule of thumb is that a cat can be in a carrier for up to eight hours.

Some cats do just fine being in cat carriers for extended periods of time, while others get restless and start meowing or scratching at the door. If your cat falls into the latter category, it's best to bring it out for short breaks every few hours to allow it to roam around and stretch its legs.

It's also important to make sure your cat has plenty of food and water before you put her in the carrier, and that there's adequate ventilation so it doesn't get overheated.

How do you calm a cat in a cat carrier?

There are a few things you can do to help calm a cat in a carrier. One is to place the carrier in an area where the cat spends a lot of time, such as next to its bed or food bowl.

You can also put a familiar toy or blanket inside the carrier. And finally, try speaking softly and petting the cat while they're in the carrier. This will hopefully help them relax and feel safe during their trip.

How do you travel with a cat in a car?

You can travel with a cat in a car by using a pet carrier. You can find very good budget cat carrier deals on Amazon - check out our reviews above.

Cat carriers come in different sizes, so you'll need to measure your cat to find the right one. Choose a carrier that's big enough for your cat to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

If your cat won't fit in a carrier, you may be able to find an alternative way to transport her safely. Some people use animal crates or boxes lined with a soft blanket.

To keep your cat safe during the trip, make sure the carrier is secured in the car. You can do this by using seatbelts or securing it to the floor of the car. Also, make sure your cat has plenty of water to drink along the way.

Should I cover my cat's carrier when traveling?

It depends on the cat. Some cats feel more secure and safe when they're covered, while others prefer to be able to see their surroundings.

I would suggest trying both ways and seeing which one your cat prefers. If your cat is particularly anxious or scared, it might be a good idea to cover the carrier.

Do cats like carriers?

Some cats do, and some cats don't. It really just depends on the individual cat.

Some cats feel safe and secure in a carrier, while others see it as a place of confinement. If your cat doesn't like her carrier, you might have to work on getting her used to it by gradually introducing her to it over time.

If you are using a backpack cat carrier, make sure it is roomy enough so that your cat doesn't feel cramped.

You can start by putting the carrier in a quiet corner of the house and feeding your cat near it so she gets comfortable with the smell. Then, start placing her in the carrier for short periods of time and give her lots of treats and positive reinforcement when she's inside. Eventually, she'll start to see it as a cozy place where good things happen!

Where do you put cat carriers in a car?

The best place to put a cat carrier in a car is in the backseat, on the floor. That way, your cat will be safe and secure during the ride. You may also want to consider putting a blanket or towel over the carrier to keep your cat calm and comfortable.

Why does my cat freak out in the carrier?

It's possible that your cat is freaked out by the carrier because it associates the carrier with a negative experience, such as a trip to the vet. Other reasons for a cat's fear of the carrier could be due to the shape or size of the carrier, or because it's been in close proximity to other animals who were in carriers and scared your cat.

One way to help your cat get used to the carrier is to place it in different parts of your house so that your cat can explore it at its own pace. You can also try feeding your cat near (but not inside) the carrier so that it becomes associated with positive experiences. gradually getting closer and closer until your cat is comfortable going inside.

What do you do if your cat hates the carrier?

If your cat hates the carrier, you can try to make it more fun for them. Buy a carrier that's made out of a soft material, and put in some toys or treats that your cat loves.

You can also take your cat on short car rides around town to get them used to the sound and motion of being in a car. If all else fails, ask your veterinarian or a friend who has a friendly cat if you can borrow theirs for a while until your cat gets used to the carrier.

One Minute Recommendation

So, there you have it! Our top five picks for the best cat carrier. We hope this article has helped to make your decision a little bit easier.

All of these cat carriers come highly recommended by consumers and we are confident that you will be happy with whichever one you choose. Thanks for visiting us and come back soon!

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