The 9 Best Cat Carriers — For Every Kind of Cat — Reviewed

Written by Judie Sigdel
Updated: December 6, 2022
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If you own a cat, you’ll want the best cat carrier available. After all, a reliable cat carrier is something you can’t go without. Whether you intend to brave cross-country travel with your cat, or you just need something to safely transport her to the vet, a good carrier is an absolute must-have. 

Of course, some cat carriers are a cut above the rest. But how do you know which one is the best cat carrier and why? 

Our team is here to help you sort through the flood of cat carriers available. We understand that every cat owner’s needs will look different, depending on personal travel habits and their pet’s size and temperament. 

To that end, we’ve rounded up the best cat carriers in several categories, touching on what makes each selection a stand-out choice. Our favorite models hit high marks for safety, comfort (for you and kitty!), durability, longevity, and affordability. 

  1. Sherpa Deluxe Airline-Approved Cat Carrier
    • Mesh windows for maximum airflow and visibility
    • Removable, washable faux lambskin interior liner
    • Padded, no-slip shoulder strap for easy carrying


    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  2. Frisco Basic Cat Carrier Bag
    • Easy-to-adjust shoulder straps for comfortable carrying
    • Removable, machine-washable sherpa interior liner
    • Easy to fold for discreet, compact storage when not in use
    • Locking zippers to prevent escapes
    • Affordable cost


    Check Chewy
  3. Amazon Basics Two-Door Hard-Sided Pet Carrier
    • Made of durable hard plastic
    • Transport cats between 12-20 lbs
    • Spring-loaded latch for secure closure
    • Plenty of ventilation for comfortable ride
    • Top-load and side-load doors
    Check Amazon
  4. Pet Magasin Collapsible Dog & Cat Carrier Bag
    • Hybrid carrier featuring hard base and soft sides
    • Side- and top-entry doors
    • Plenty of ventilation and visibility
    • Comes with a padded mat
    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  5. Pet Gear Signature Cat Car Seat & Carrier
    • Easily fastens to car's seatbelts for secure ride
    • Interior tether ensure pet stays put
    • Safe for cats up to 20 lbs
    • Removable, machine-washable fleece pad included
    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  6. Frisco Premium Cat Carrier Bag
    • Fits securely under the seat in front of you on most major airlines
    • Comfortable strap makes for ease of transport
    • Well-ventilated mesh panels ensure maximum breathability and visibility
    • Removable, washable sherpa liner
    • Top and side entry options with auto-locking zipper closures
    Check Chewy
  7. PetAmi Deluxe Backpack Cat Carrier
    • Firm, durable structure for safe and comfortable transport
    • Dual-entry points give cats options
    • Spacious, well-ventilated main compartment
    • Soft sherpa lining and mesh windows
    • ID tag included for easy identification
    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  8. BestPet Cat Stroller/Carrier
    • Affordable price
    • Mesh windows for maximum ventilation and visibility
    • Large storage space underneath
    • Smooth-ride wheels with safety brakes
    • Waterproof and easy to collapse frame
    Check Amazon
  9. EliteField Soft-Sided Cat Carrier Bag
    • Soft-sided carrier is highly affordable
    • Seatbelt loop and luggage strap ensure stay-put transportation
    • Approved by most major airlines
    • Available in six colors and includes removable, washable bedding
    Check Chewy Check Amazon

The Top Picks for the Best Cat Carriers: Ranked

#1 Best Overall: Sherpa Original Deluxe Cat Carrier

Our choice for the best cat carrier, the Sherpa Original Deluxe Cat Carrier, is perfect for everyday use, but also suitable for travel. After all, it’s approved by most major airlines.

There’s a lot to love about this “Deluxe” cat carrier. Designed by a former flight attendant, Sherpa artfully blends safety, comfort, and style for superior pet travel products. It features a convenient rear pocket for storage; a comfy, non-slip shoulder strap; and a faux lambskin liner so your kitty can enjoy a comfy ride.

This carrier is a solid go-to for everyday use, and it’s equally suitable for travel. Sherpa prioritizes your cat’s safety by including a strap to anchor the carrier in your car. Cunning escape artists are no match for the carrier’s locking zippers that only open from the outside. 

To maximize airflow, the carrier has ample mesh panels. You can remove the cozy liner to toss in the wash, but you’ll have to spot-clean the rest of the carrier if it gets dirty. 

Some reviewers reported that the zipper on their cat carriers broke. Others said that their pets chewed their way out of the cat carrier.

Pros and Cons of the Sherpa Original Deluxe Cat Carrier

ProsCons
This cat carrier is approved by most major airlines.While the liner is machine washable, the rest of the carrier can only be spot cleaned.
It features a rear pocket for convenient storage; non-slip shoulder strap; and a faux lambskin liner so all of your cat’s journeys will be comfy.Some buyers said that the zipper on their cat carrier broke.
It’s suitable for everyday use and travle.Some reviewers reported that their pets were able to chew their way out of this cat carrier.
This cat carrier includes a strap to anchor the carrier in your car.
Its locking zippers only open from the outside.
Mesh panels maximize airflow.
The liner is machine washable.
Best Overall
Sherpa Deluxe Airline-Approved Cat Carrier
  • Mesh windows for maximum airflow and visibility
  • Removable, washable faux lambskin interior liner
  • Padded, no-slip shoulder strap for easy carrying


Check Chewy Check Amazon

2. Best Soft-Sided Cat Carrier: Frisco Everyday Cat Carrier

The Frisco Everyday Cat Carrier proves that you don’t need to break the bank to find a functional cat carrier that meets the dimension requirements of most major airlines.

This black bag with gray trim was designed with the buyer’s convenience in mind. It’s available in two sizes: Small/Medium (17 x 8 x 11.5 inches) and Medium/Large (19 x 10 x 13 inches). We appreciate the adjustable shoulder straps, rear storage compartment, and machine-washable sherpa liner. Plus, it folds flat easily, solving your storage problems.

The carrier’s flexible sides can be compressed slightly, giving you a little wiggle room for plane travel. Like the Sherpa Deluxe, locking zippers can only be opened from the outside. The one flaw (as we see it) is that this bag isn’t top-loading. If your cat doesn’t have trouble with a side door, however, this could be the carrier for you.

The primary customer complaint was that the carrier was significantly smaller than they expected.

Pros and Cons of the Frisco Everyday Cat Carrier

ProsCons
This soft-sided cat carrier meets the dimension requirements of most major airlines.This carrier isn’t top-loading, which may be an issue if your cat won’t use a side door.
It’s black with gray trim and is available in two sizes: Small/Medium (17 x 8 x 11.5 inches) and Medium/Large (19 x 10 x 13 inches).Some reviewers said that the carrier was much smaller than they expected.
This cat carrier features adjustable shoulder straps, a rear storage compartment, and a machine-washable sherpa liner.
It folds flat for convenient storage.
The locking zippers can only be opened from the outside.
Best Soft-Sided Carrier
Frisco Basic Cat Carrier Bag
  • Easy-to-adjust shoulder straps for comfortable carrying
  • Removable, machine-washable sherpa interior liner
  • Easy to fold for discreet, compact storage when not in use
  • Locking zippers to prevent escapes
  • Affordable cost


Check Chewy

3. Best Hard-Sided Cat Carrier: AmazonBasics Two-Door Pet Carrier

If you’re looking for a durable plastic cat carrier, the AmazonBasics Two-Door Pet Carrier has you covered. At 22.83″L x 14.96″W x 12.99″H, this plastic and steel kennel-style carrier can accommodate cats between 12 and 20 pounds. The top-load door is useful for challenging feline travelers who refuse to use side openings. 

This gray and blue hard-sided cat carrier features a spring-loaded latch that you can open with one hand. Ample ventilation holes on the sides, top, and back will keep your cat from overheating. Extra screws keep the top and bottom securely attached.

The primary reviewer complaint was that it’s not as sturdy enough.

Pros and Cons of the AmazonBasics Two-Door Pet Carrier

ProsCons
This plastic and steel kennel-style pet carrier measures 22.83″L x 14.96″W x 12.99″H and can accommodate cats weighing between 12 and 20 pounds.Some buyers reported that it wasn’t sturdy enough.
It features a top-load door as well as a side door.
You can open the spring-loaded latch with one hand.
This pet carrier has ample ventilation hopes on the sides, top, and back.
Extra screws keep the top and bottom sections securely attached.
#1 Hard-Sided Carrier
Amazon Basics Two-Door Hard-Sided Pet Carrier
  • Made of durable hard plastic
  • Transport cats between 12-20 lbs
  • Spring-loaded latch for secure closure
  • Plenty of ventilation for comfortable ride
  • Top-load and side-load doors
Check Amazon

4. Best Top-Loading Cat Carrier: Pet Magasin Hard Cover Collapsible Carrier

If you can’t decide between a soft or hard carrier get the best of both worlds with the Pet Magasin Hard Cover Collapsible Carrier. Featuring a protective hard base and soft sides that fold down, this unique carrier offers a convenient solution to your space issues. And if your strong-willed kitty refuses to exit through the traditional side door, you can access her through the top. 

This 17″L x 13″W x 14″H cat carrier features a padded mat so your kitty can travel in comfort and a rigid, solid bottom to make her feel stable when the carrier is in motion.

Some verified buyers reported that this carrier is difficult to assemble, and a couple reported that their cats clawed their way out.

Pros and Cons of the Pet Magasin Hard Cover Collapsible Carrier

ProsCons
This pet carrier has a protective hard base and soft sides that fold down for easy storage.This carrier may be difficult to assemble.
It features a padded mat so your cat can travel in comfort and a rigid, solid bottom to provide a sense of stability.Some cats may be able to claw their way out of this pet carrier.
This 17″L x 13″W x 14″H cat carrier has a top door as well as one on the side.
Best Top-Loading
Pet Magasin Collapsible Dog & Cat Carrier Bag
  • Hybrid carrier featuring hard base and soft sides
  • Side- and top-entry doors
  • Plenty of ventilation and visibility
  • Comes with a padded mat
Check Chewy Check Amazon

5. Best Cat Carrier for Car Travel: PetGear Signature Car Seat Carrier

If you plan to travel with your cat by car, the PetGear Signature Car Seat Carrier will keep her extra safe. You can fasten this carrier with you your car’s seatbelts to secure your pet safely in place, reducing driver distraction. There’s also a tether inside the carrier to keep your pet from being tossed around. It’s safe for cats up to 20 pounds. 

This attractive, aqua-colored car seat carrier features top and side doors. Plus, its fleece pad, which will keep your kitty comfortable during your travels, is machine washable.

Several reviewers said that their cats escaped from this carrier.

Pros and Cons of the PetGear Signature Car Seat Carrier

ProsCons
You can secure this carrier with your car’s seatbelts.Some buyers reported that their cats were able to escape from this car seat carrier.
A tether inside the carrier keeps your cat from being tossed around.
It’s safe for cats up to 20 pounds.
This aqua-colored carrier features top and side doors and a machine-washable fleece pad.
Best for Car Travel
Pet Gear Signature Cat Car Seat & Carrier
  • Easily fastens to car's seatbelts for secure ride
  • Interior tether ensure pet stays put
  • Safe for cats up to 20 lbs
  • Removable, machine-washable fleece pad included
Check Chewy Check Amazon

6. Best Cat Carrier for Plane Travel: Frisco Premium Travel Cat Carrier

If plane travel is in your future, you’ll want to check out the Frisco Premium Travel Cat Carrier. While guidelines on acceptable pet carriers vary from one airline to the next, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) maintains that cat carriers must be “small enough to fit underneath the seat without blocking any person’s path to the main aisle of the airplane.” 

Frisco’s Premium Cat Carrier certainly fits the bill. The bag’s luggage strap makes it easy to maneuver around a busy airport, and plenty of mesh panels means your cat will stay well-ventilated during your trip. Spacious accommodations and a sherpa lining offer comfort during what can be a stressful time for pets. 

If you end up needing slightly more room on the plane, the soft sides will bend to accommodate the space. 

This carrier is made of polyester, fleece, mesh, and synthetic fabric and is available in three sizes: Small (15″ x 10″ x 8.5″), Medium (17″ x 11″ x 10.5″) and Large (19″ x 11.75″ x 11.5″). And an easy-stow rear pocket lets you stash as few treats for your feline friend.

You’ll appreciate that this carrier has both top and side entry options and that the auto-locking zippers can only be opened from the outside.

One verified buyer reported that the airline didn’t accept this carrier. Some reviewers said that their cats clawed their way out of this carrier. Other complaints had to do with the carrier being too large or too small.

Pros and Cons of the Frisco Premium Travel Cat Carrier

ProsCons
This carrier is designed to fit underneath the seat without blocking access to the main aisle of the plane per FAA guidelines.One reviewer reported that the airline didn’t accept this carrier.
It’s available in three sizes: Small (15″ x 10″ x 8.5″), Medium (17″ x 11″ x 10.5″) and Large (19″ x 11.75″ x 11.5″)Some buyers said that their cats clawed their way out of this carrier.
This carrier features a luggage strap, mesh panels for ventilation, and an easy-stow rear pocket.Other verified reviewers said that the carrier was too large or too small.
Top and side entry options allow you easy access to your cat and auto-locking zippers can only be opened from the outside.
Best For Plane Travel
Frisco Premium Cat Carrier Bag
  • Fits securely under the seat in front of you on most major airlines
  • Comfortable strap makes for ease of transport
  • Well-ventilated mesh panels ensure maximum breathability and visibility
  • Removable, washable sherpa liner
  • Top and side entry options with auto-locking zipper closures
Check Chewy

7. Best Backpack Carrier: PetAmi Deluxe Backpack Cat Carrier

Featuring a safety buckle and leash, the PetAmi Deluxe Backpack Cat Carrier is designed to keep your precious pet safe. The pack’s firm structure prevents passengers from being squashed and gives them enough room to stay comfortable during your excursion. 

There are two entrance points to choose from. Your cat will be able to enjoy the sights and take in some fresh air through the pack’s mesh window while it snuggles on the cozy sherpa-lined bottom. It even includes a collapsible bowl — perfect for serving kitty-approved refreshments mid-hike. 

As long as your back can handle it, this backpack, which measures 12.5″L x 10.2″W x 16.3″H, can safely transport cats up to 18 pounds. For extra support, it also comes with chest and waist straps.

This attractive cat backpack is available in 12 colors and includes a name tag I.D. for your feline friend.

Some reviewers reported that the backpack couldn’t accommodate cats weighing more than eight to 11 pounds.

Pros and Cons of the PetAmi Deluxe Backpack Cat Carrier

ProsCons
This backpack cat carrier has a firm structure to keep your pet from getting squashed during transport.This backpack may not be able to accommodate cats weighing more than eight to 11 pounds.
It’s roomy enough to keep your cat comfortable, especially since they’ll be snuggling on the cozy sherpa-lined bottom.
This cat backpack features a safety buckle and leash, a name tag I.D., and a collapsible bowl.
It measures 12.5″L x 10.2″W x 16.3″H and can safely transport cats weighing up to 18 pounds. Chest and waist straps provide additional support.
This backpack cat carrier is available in 12 colors.
Best Backpack Carrier
PetAmi Deluxe Backpack Cat Carrier
  • Firm, durable structure for safe and comfortable transport
  • Dual-entry points give cats options
  • Spacious, well-ventilated main compartment
  • Soft sherpa lining and mesh windows
  • ID tag included for easy identification
Check Chewy Check Amazon

8. Best Cat Stroller: BestPet Folding Cat Stroller

Some cats enjoy going for a walk, and the BestPet Folding Cat Stroller makes giving your indoor kitty a taste of the outdoors a feasible (and safe!) activity. 

This all-purpose pet stroller from BestPet is a good choice if you’re unsure about your cat enjoying a walk in the park. With its affordable price, you won’t be quite as devastated if the whole walking-with-my-cat thing doesn’t work out. 

This pet stroller accommodates pets up to 25 pounds, features mesh windows, perfect for birdwatching and cloud-gazing. The generous storage bin underneath gives pet owners a place to stow keys, treats, water, and toys. When your walk is over, simply fold up and stash this lightweight stroller away. 

It’s available in seven snazzy colors, the wheels have safety brakes, it’s made of waterproof fabric, and it even features a cupholder.

Several buyers reported issues with the wheels such as the hubcaps coming off. Others stated that it wasn’t well made.

Pros and Cons of the BestPet Folding Cat Stroller

ProsCons
This affordable pet stroller can accommodate pets weighing up to 25 pounds.There may be issues with the wheels.
It features mesh windows, a generous storage bin underneath, safety brakes, waterproof fabric, and a cupholder.There may be quality issues.
This stroller is available in seven colors.
After your walk, just fold it up and stash it away.
Best Cat Stroller
BestPet Cat Stroller/Carrier
  • Affordable price
  • Mesh windows for maximum ventilation and visibility
  • Large storage space underneath
  • Smooth-ride wheels with safety brakes
  • Waterproof and easy to collapse frame
Check Amazon

9. Best Budget Option: EliteField Soft-Sided Airline-Approved Carrier

If you’re looking to spend less, but don’t want to compromise on quality, the EliteField Soft-Sided Airline-Approved Carrier is a solid choice. It shares many of the sought-after features offered by other pricier brands — without the steep price tag attached. 

The bag’s seatbelt loop and luggage strap simplify airport navigation. It’s approved by most major airlines and is constructed from durable, lightweight material. This carrier includes cozy plush bedding and is available in six attractive colors and two sizes: Medium (17″L x 9″W x 12″H) and Large (19″L x 10″W x 13″H).

One snag we found is this carrier’s lack of a top door. Some reviewers noted that it was too small and not sturdy enough.

Pros and Cons of the EliteField Soft-Sided Airline-Approved Carrier

ProsCons
This carrier is approved by most major airlines.This soft-sided carrier does not include a top door.
It’s constructed from durable, lightweight material and features cozy plush bedding for your kitty to snuggle on.Some purchasers reported that it was too small and not sturdy enough.
Choose from two sizes — Medium (17″L x 9″W x 12″H) and Large (19″L x 10″W x 13″H) — in your choice of six colors.
This carrier features a seatbelt loop and luggage strap for easy airport navigation.
Best Budget-Friendly
EliteField Soft-Sided Cat Carrier Bag
  • Soft-sided carrier is highly affordable
  • Seatbelt loop and luggage strap ensure stay-put transportation
  • Approved by most major airlines
  • Available in six colors and includes removable, washable bedding
Check Chewy Check Amazon

What Should I Look For in a Cat Carrier?

Not all cat carriers are created equal. But how do you know which models are sub-par and which ones are worth buying? Here are some boxes to tick during your search.

Size: How big should your cat carrier be? According to PetMD “a cat carrier should allow enough space for your cat to stand without crouching and be able to turn around.” For short trips to the vet, a smaller carrier will suffice. Longer trips, naturally, will require a size upgrade to accommodate food and water bowls while allowing your cat to stretch her pretty paws. That said, be wary of going too big: an oversized carrier can have your cat sliding around, and it will be a chore to carry.

Entrance options: Some cat carriers come with two openings, others will have three. If your feisty cat resists using a kennel’s side doors, you’ll be happy to have a top-loading option. 

Long-lasting materials: Cat owners with clawed-up furniture should probably opt for plastic since fabric may not hold up to persistent scratching. Look for materials that are safe and will last the long haul. Many carriers include a soft liner for your pet’s comfort. If not, towels can make a fine substitute. 

Ventilation: Proper airflow is critical to keep your cat from overheating. Look for carriers with breathable fabric and multiple mesh windows. Extra windows also boost your cat’s visibility.

Washability: Most plastic carriers are a breeze to wash, making them a good match for cats with sensitive tummies. Fabric carriers are another story. Most come with a removable liner that you can toss in the laundry, but you’ll have to spot clean the rest.

Cost: Cat carriers have a wide price range, with cheaper models starting at $20 and premium carriers going for several hundred dollars. While a safe and functional cat carrier is a worthwhile investment, you should have no trouble finding a quality model that fits your budget.

The 4 Types of Cat Carriers and Which One Is Best for You

With so many cat carriers out there, how do you find the one that’s right for you?

To narrow down your choices, consider first how you’ll be using the carrier. Will you be traveling long distances with your cat, or just taking her to the vet down the street? You also want something that won’t be a struggle to carry, so lightweight material and padded shoulder straps are valuable features to look for. 

Bearing these qualities in mind, here’s a basic rundown of the four main types of cat carriers you’ll come across in your search. 

  1. Soft-sided cat carriers: Firm-yet-flexible, soft carriers are ideal for plane travel. The sides can be compressed to accommodate smaller spaces, and they’re lighter and easier to carry than hard plastic. On the downside, soft carriers are generally harder to keep clean—something to consider if your cat gets sick often.
  2. Hard-sided cat carriers: Hard carriers are best for long-distance car travel. They’re safer and sturdier than nylon carriers, they stand up better to scratching, and they’re fairly easy to wipe down. Unfortunately, they can also be bulkier and heavier, making them difficult for some folks to carry. 
  3. Backpack cat carriers: Maybe your cat is an intrepid explorer, in which case a cat-approved backpack could be a hit. This adorable trend is perfect for adventurous pet owners who want to give their cats an enriching change of scenery. Before purchasing, check the backpack’s dimensions and weight allowance to ensure your cat will have adequate space. You’ll also want to check for sufficient windows and comfortable straps that offer support while you tote your little friend around town.
  4. Cat strollers: Cats get bored just like humans do. One solution is investing in a pet stroller that lets your curious kitty take in new sights, sounds, and smells. A stroll through the park can be mentally stimulating for your cat and promotes human-animal bonding. Keep in mind that no matter how much you dream of moseying around town with your pet in a pram, not all cats will take to a stroller. It’s smart to start small with an affordable model, rather than shelling out bookoo bucks for a fancy contraption that will sit in the closet collecting dust. 

Now that you’re familiar with the main categories of cat carriers, let’s see which ones made the cut for our top picks. Your cat’s new favorite carrier could be in the list below!

Our Criteria and Experience: How We Chose the Best

When making our recommendations for the best cat carriers, we researched many products to find ones with the following features:

  • Functionality: Your cat will be comfortable and relaxed in the cat carrier with a way to see out; padding in the bottom for your cat’s comfort; we included an option for airline travel.
  • Durability: The carrier is sturdy to transport your cat safely; if soft-sided, the fabric is strong to withstand your cat’s scratching.
  • Safety: We looked for cat carriers that had proper ventilation so that your cat doesn’t overheat. We also considered ones with materials that were safe for your cat, and hypo-allergenic.
  • Versatility: The cat carriers on our list cover the gamut of options–hard-sided, soft-sided, cat backpack, and stroller.
  • Collapsible design allows for easy storage
  • Top and side entry
  • Auto-locking zippers that only open from the outside
  • Available in small, medium, and large

Up Next…

About the Author

My passion is writing about animals. I’ve published articles on pet parrots, birds, and small animal care and reviews about pet food and products. I have an ever-evolving aviary and menagerie that has included cockatiels, parakeets, conures, European starlings, a chukar partridge, guinea pigs, dogs, and cats. I’m also the author of Faith without Labels: a Guide to Eclectic Spirituality.

The 9 Best Cat Carriers — For Every Kind of Cat — Reviewed FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

Should your cat be in a carrier when it's in your car?

Absolutely! A well-designed cat carrier will keep your feline safely contained during your road trip. Plus, there’s nothing more distracting to a driver than a cat prowling around inside a car.

Do cats prefer hard or soft carriers?

Many cats prefer hard carriers because they feel more secure to them.

Some hybrid carriers combine the best of both worlds: the flexibility and openness of a soft carrier and a rigid or hard bottom that makes a cat feel like the carrier is more stable.

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us? Contact the AZ Animals editorial team.