Choosing a Cat Carrier

A good carrier makes vet visits, travel and moving house safer and calmer. The best carrier for your cat depends on their size, temperament and how you'll be travelling.

Hard-shell carriers

Plastic carriers are sturdy, easy to clean and offer good protection.

• Top-loading designs (or carriers with a removable top half) make it much easier to lower a reluctant cat in, and vets often find them easier too, as some cats can be examined in the bottom half.
• Look for secure latches that you can open with one hand.

Soft-sided carriers

Fabric carriers are lighter and fold away, which suits occasional use and storage. However:

• They're harder to clean after accidents.
• Determined cats may claw or chew through mesh.
• They give less protection if something falls on them.

Backpack carriers

Useful for short walks with a confident cat, but check ventilation and weight limits carefully. Many cats prefer a carrier they can see out of less.

Size and weight

Your cat should be able to stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably. Check the manufacturer's maximum weight, and remember a large carrier with a heavy cat inside can be awkward to carry.

Car travel

• Secure the carrier with a seatbelt or place it in a footwell so it can't move.
• Look for a seatbelt loop on the carrier.
• Never leave a cat alone in a car — temperatures can rise quickly.

Making carriers less stressful

Many cats only see the carrier before a vet visit, so they learn to dread it. Commonly recommended steps:

1. Leave the carrier out at home with a familiar blanket inside.
2. Put treats or meals near it, then inside it.
3. Cover it with a towel during journeys — many cats feel safer.

Quick checklist

• Top-loading or removable top?
• Secure, easy-to-use latches?
• Right size and weight limit?
• Easy to clean?
• Seatbelt-compatible?

Browse cat carriers. Travelling with a dog too? See dog travel essentials.