When you're on the move with your cat, whether it's a car ride or a flight, having a reliable cat carrier is essential. The ideal cat carrier will ensure your pet's safety and provide convenience when loading and unloading your precious companion.
Even if your cat only ventures out for vet visits, it's crucial to have a secure means of transportation. Dr. Sandra Mitchell, DVM, DABVP (feline), owner of All Creatures Veterinary Services in Bangor, Maine, explains that without a safe travel carrier, a cat can easily sustain injuries in the event of a car accident while on the way to the vet. Additionally, owning a carrier that is readily accessible is essential in emergency situations, such as a fire in your home, allowing you to swiftly load your cat.
The requirements for your travel cat carrier will vary depending on whether you're embarking on a cross-country journey or simply taking a leisurely stroll to the park for some fresh air. In this guide, we will break down the different types of cat carriers and provide key considerations to help you choose the best one for your beloved feline.
Factors to Consider Before Purchasing a Cat Carrier
Before you begin your search for the perfect cat carrier, there are several important factors to keep in mind. Take note of the following considerations before making your purchase:
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Size: For short trips such as vet visits or visits to friends, your cat carrier should only be spacious enough for your feline friend to comfortably stand, turn around, and lie down, as advised by Dr. Mitchell. If you plan to travel longer distances or cross-country, opt for a larger carrier that provides ample room for your cat to move around, stretch, and even accommodate a water and feeding bowl.
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Ease of Loading: The ability to quickly and efficiently load your cat into the carrier is crucial, particularly during emergencies. Dr. Mitchell recommends considering a top-loading cat carrier, as it is much easier to drop a cat in from above than to struggle with squeezing them through the front door. A top-loading carrier or one that can be disassembled and reassembled simplifies vet visits as well, ensuring safe access to your cat without the need for forced extraction.
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Protection from Moisture: Some cat carriers come equipped with washable and absorbent removable pads, providing comfort for your cat during travel. However, it's advantageous if these liners can also rapidly and effectively absorb any water or fluids. In the event of accidents, keeping your cat's paws and body dry will significantly enhance their comfort. If your chosen carrier fails in this aspect, Dr. Mitchell suggests lining the bottom with puppy training pads as a helpful alternative.
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Adequate Airflow: Most carriers are designed with oxygen flow in mind, ensuring proper ventilation for your cat. However, Dr. Mitchell advises against carriers with excessive openings, as they can be intimidating to cats who prefer to hide rather than observe their surroundings. If possible, opt for a travel cat carrier with relatively solid sides to provide your kitty with a sense of shelter.
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Easy Cleaning: Carriers often endure wear and tear, particularly from bodily fluids, as noted by Dr. Mitchell. Therefore, it is crucial to consider how easily a carrier can be cleaned when making your selection.
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Portability: The weight of the carrier is a significant factor to consider, as it directly affects the ease of transportation once your cat is inside. Dr. Mitchell emphasizes the importance of being able to swiftly and safely exit a burning building with your cat in the carrier, making portability a key consideration.
Types of Cat Carriers
With these essential considerations in mind, you're ready to explore the various types of cat carriers available and choose one that best suits your needs and those of your feline companion. Here are some popular options:
- Cat Carrier Bag
Soft-sided cat carrier bags offer the advantage of flexibility, allowing you to compress them when storage space is limited, such as under a plane or train seat, or at home. Dr. Mitchell also highlights that these carriers provide a sense of "hiddenness" for cats, making them particularly suitable for shyer feline friends. The Frisco Premium Travel Cat Carrier Bag is a notable choice, featuring a zippered top opening and a washable sherpa lining for added comfort.
Best for: Most cats, especially those who prefer to stay out of sight.
- Hard-Sided Cat Kennel
Cat crates, often made of plastic, are the traditional choice for transporting cats. Although they occupy more space in your home and lack foldability like soft carriers, they are favored by many cats as cozy beds and are easier to keep clean. The Frisco Plastic Cat Kennel, for instance, includes a moat on the floor for liquid drainage and is designed for easy disassembly and reassembly, making it convenient for vet visits.
Best for: Well-behaved cats who are easy to load and unload.
- Cat Carrier Backpack
Cat carrier backpacks offer the advantage of convenient portability for pet owners, although visibility of the cat may be limited while being carried on your back. These backpacks often feature a top-loading opening, simplifying the process of getting your cat inside. The Gen7Pets model is equipped with wheels and can be converted into a rolling carrier for enhanced travel ease. - Best for: Most cats, particularly those who are adaptable to a slightly bumpy ride.
- Top-Loading Cat Carrier
Hard-sided, top-loading cat carriers, such as the one offered by Frisco, are an excellent all-around choice, according to Dr. Mitchell. These carriers have an opening on the top, allowing for effortless loading and unloading of your cat. They are also designed for easy disassembly and cleaning. The number of air vents can vary depending on the model.
Best for: Most cats, especially those that may be challenging to load and unload.
- Cat Stroller
While cat strollers are not typically used for vet visits or air travel due to their space requirements in waiting rooms, they are an ideal choice for taking your feline companion on walks or to the park. For example, the Petique Cat Stroller offers a smooth ride over various terrains, ample storage space, cup holders for you, and mesh openings to provide ventilation and allow your kitty to enjoy the surroundings.
Best for: Inquisitive cats who enjoy outdoor excursions.
Regardless of the type of carrier you choose, take the time to acclimate your cat to it. Unlike litter boxes, carriers are often associated with negative experiences when cats only encounter them once a year for vet visits. Dr. Mitchell recommends making the carrier a comfortable space by placing cozy beds inside and leaving it accessible for your cat to nap in. This gradual exposure helps alleviate fear and transforms the carrier into a less intimidating place for your furry friend.
By considering these factors and exploring the various types of cat carriers available, you can select the perfect carrier to ensure the comfort, safety, and convenience of both you and your cherished feline companion.