The issue of transporting a pet is relevant for most owners. The furry friend goes with his family to the country, visits the veterinarian, and shows. Convenient carrying in this case will come in handy. In this article we will tell you how to choose a high-quality cat carrier, what types of carriers there are in general and what are their main differences. And also – a rating of the best carriers for cats.
Rating of cat carriers
When choosing a carrier for a cat, owners take care of their convenience and wallet, as well as the comfort of their pet. I would like the pet to be moved not to be afraid or experience any unpleasant sensations. Especially during long trips or flights.
We compared 30 models available in pet stores and identified the best. The rating is based on several criteria:
- Type of product;
- Options;
- Design;
- Material;
- Reliability and comfort.
The main principle in compiling the TOP list was the humane treatment of animals. Some applicants for inclusion in the rating were rightly rejected due to unsafety. The outsiders were cramped carriers with a chemical smell and poor air exchange.
Reliable models, comfortable and made from environmentally friendly materials, have emerged as leaders.
What happens to a cat when it suddenly travels?
How are animals usually transported? In most cases, the cat is simply picked up and forced into a carrier, then taken to an unfamiliar place. Sometimes the journey takes several days.
What happens in this case? Imagine, a cat lived in an apartment for several years, saw the world around him from a window or balcony, and there are so many new things here. New smells, sounds, strangers, transport, screams, barking...
An animal from a familiar environment suddenly finds itself in another world, and everything unidentified causes fear. When there is danger, a natural mechanism is triggered: run away or defend yourself.
When a cat cannot escape, it freezes and practically does not react to others. If you have been to clinics where there is an inpatient facility, you most likely noticed how calmly the animals left for treatment behave. They can easily give an injection or connect a system, that is, an IV, or carry out other necessary manipulations.
Yes, of course, they feel bad about it and already agree to everything. But if you compare a sick animal at home and in a clinic, these are two big differences.
In her apartment, a sick cat will defend herself to the last, sometimes the whole family has to hold her for a routine examination. And when it comes to complex manipulations, it becomes completely difficult.
Why am I making such a long digression and telling you different stories about the clinic and IVs? To draw your attention to some points.
It may seem to you that the animal bravely endures the trip, sits calmly in the carrier and does not even meow. This may be true, but most often the cat is under severe stress, it freezes and does not make any sounds. We see calm outside, but what is happening inside is not noticeable.
And inside the whole body is preparing to fight with all its strength or run as fast as possible. Adrenaline is produced, blood supply to the brain and muscles improves, sense organs are sharpened, more oxygen is supplied, and reserves are used.
An hour or two passes, but the causes of stress do not disappear - we continue the journey, we can still hear the noise of the crowd, foreign smells, and changes in temperature.
Exhaustion sets in, the body cannot constantly be in constant mobilization. In such situations, the cat may begin to make loud noises, scratch the carrier, urinate, and lick itself nonstop. Or he will completely stop reacting to what is happening.
Prolonged or severe stress can lead to serious complications. Neurosis, decreased immunity, exacerbation of chronic diseases, allergies and other disorders are often observed.
It has been noticed that after a trip, a cat more often suffers from infectious diseases, digestive disorders, autoimmune pathologies appear, and chronic ones worsen.
The Best Folding Carriers for Cats
Foldable carrying bags are compact. After use, they are quickly folded and stored in a closet or pantry. To determine the winners, an analysis of 8 accessories from different brands was carried out. The rating included 3 nominees with an optimal price/quality ratio.
Ibiyaya Carrying bag for cats and dogs up to 6 kg
Designed to carry cats no heavier than 8 kg. Equipped with a wide shoulder strap. The animal is placed inside through an opening at the top. There is also a zipper on the front. The sewn-in frame does not allow the carrying bag to sag under the weight of the animal. Size: 42*30*32 cm, weight: 1400 g.
Advantages:
- Ventilation through mesh material;
- Side pockets for small items and care products;
- Safety rope;
- Internal soft lining;
- Suitable for washing in warm water;
- Sporty design.
Flaws:
- Limited interior space.
There is a transparent window on the front part. Thanks to the opening view, the cat feels confident and calm, and does not try to jump out.
Carrying bag for cats and dogs Teremok SPO-5
Compact, can withstand loads of up to 3 kg. Suitable for small dogs, cats, rabbits, chinchillas, ferrets. Made from nylon and flock. The folding top and bottom are reinforced with plywood. Easy to fold thanks to side zippers. Does not require maintenance. The instructions indicate that the product must be washed in soapy water at a temperature not exceeding 30°C. Weight: 640 g.
Advantages:
- Plastic mesh in the front;
- Easy to clean;
- Suitable for air transport;
- Keeps its shape;
- Reliable zippers;
- High-quality tailoring, even seams, no protruding threads.
Flaws:
- The inside of the bag is lined with a material to which wool sticks;
- The length of the handles is not adjustable.
According to customer reviews, the Teremok SPO-5 cat carrier bag is soft, lightweight and easy to use. It features an unusual ornament. A bit cramped for large individuals. They will have to travel lying down. Suitable for short trips, no longer than 2-3 hours. The listed inconveniences are compensated by a favorable price - up to 1,500 rubles.
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Carrying bag for dogs and cats Triol 30171L
Designed specifically for air travel. The design is appropriate - the body of the product is strict without unnecessary elements. There is a pocket for small items. Made from polyester. Has good air exchange thanks to built-in ventilation meshes. Suitable for cats weighing up to 6 kg.
Advantages:
- There is a leash on a carabiner inside to secure the animal;
- Equipped with a special zipper fastener;
- Fastens with a seat belt inside the car;
- Warm plush bedding;
- Can be transported on the shoulder or in the hand;
- Spacious side zip pocket.
Flaws:
- The pet will not be able to fully straighten up inside;
- During long-term storage, the clasp comes off.
The cat carrier on the plane complies with international air travel standards. On the back wall there is a form for placing the owner's business card in case of lost luggage. Attaches to suitcase. The dimensions and design allow it to be placed under the seat in front. There it must be located in accordance with flight rules.
Rules for choosing a carrier
To choose, you need to pay attention to several points:
- It should be voluminous in size. The cat can stand up, lie down, and turn around in it.
- The vehicle requires compliance with the season. Summer should be well ventilated and in light colors. Winter insulated and protected from bad weather.
- The bottom must be stable, durable and able to support the weight of the animal. Hard ones are covered with additional rugs or a diaper.
- It is important that the vehicle matches the time the purr will be in it. The longer he stays in it, the more comfortable it should be.
- Let's not forget about ourselves as the carrier of our pet. Choose from a short handle, a long handle, wheels, or all together. We pay attention to the weight of the cat and how it will be more convenient for you to transport it.
- Cat carrier price. The more expensive and better quality it is, the more comfortable it will be for the purr and you during transportation.
The Best Plastic Carriers for Cats
Plastic models are durable and easy to clean, do not absorb moisture, and are well ventilated. Among 9 nominees, the 3 best carriers were included in the rating, with which both animals and owners were satisfied.
Clipper carrier for cats and dogs Homepet HOMEPET
The rectangular clipper carrier is designed for moving cats and small dogs. Equipped with strong locks and latches. The dimensions of the product allow a pet weighing 6-7 kg to comfortably sit inside. Carrying weight: 1 kg. Easy to clean with soapy water.
Advantages:
- Resistant to damage, made of high quality plastic;
- Air exchange mesh;
- Available in different colors - lilac, blue, green;
- Sturdy door;
- Ergonomic handle, holes for attaching a belt;
- Stable when transported in public transport or by car.
Flaws:
- When making a purchase online, you will have to assemble the structure;
- Cumbersome to store.
Animals travel quietly inside a cozy house or use it as a sleeping place. Dimensions allow you to sit in any position. It is enough to lay a soft mattress or rug on the bottom.
Clipper carrier for cats and dogs Georplast Rhino
This comfortable clipper carrier, made in Italy, made of high-quality plastic, is designed for medium-sized cats. The walls of the product are thin but durable. The door opens upward. Made in a laconic, restrained style. Weight: 1.19 kg. You will have to pay up to 2000 rubles for Georplast Rhino.
Advantages:
- Thanks to the transparent door, the animal has a good view;
- Resistance to damage and deformation;
- Possibility to accommodate two small cats;
- Constant flow of fresh air.
Flaws:
- There are no cutouts for securing with a seat belt in a car;
- A large cat will be able to open the door on its own.
Quite bulky. It is better to store it unassembled. The product features an intuitive assembly that anyone can handle. The perimeter of the case is equipped with grilles through which air circulates. Therefore, it is recommended to use it in warm weather.
Clipper carrier for cats and dogs Moderna Road Runner I Spring Lock
Stylish plastic, ideal for air travel. Equipped with a door with a metal grill and a lock. Suitable for small animals. The model is presented in 4 colors - gray, pink, blue, yellow. Weight: 910 g. Country of origin: Belgium.
Advantages:
- Ventilation holes on the sides;
- Beautiful, unusual design;
- Easy to care for, does not absorb unpleasant odors;
- The kit includes assembly instructions in Russian;
- Strong locks to secure the top cover;
- An animal weighing up to 5 kg can easily stand and turn around inside.
Flaws:
- Tight for a large cat.
Thanks to the ability to see the surrounding space, the Moderna Road Runner I Spring Lock carrier allows your pet to travel comfortably and not feel nervous. An additional advantage is the ability to wash without disassembling, right in the bathroom.
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What types of carriers are there depending on the season?
They come in summer and winter. Summer ones are light with a lot of holes and windows. They are well ventilated.
Winter ones are more insulated with different bedding and rugs, insulated walls.
The best backpacks for cats
Ergonomic carrying backpacks for cats are in demand in Russian pet stores. They are more convenient and lighter than traditional models. The main advantage is hands-free. To keep cats calm, there is a transparent convex porthole window in the central part of the backpacks. When determining the leaders, the VyborExpert.ru team studied popular models, selecting the 2 best.
Petkit Fresh Wind Cat Backpack Green
The backpack carrier for cats with a porthole is designed for an animal weighing 2-8 kg. Made of textile, polycarbonate, plastic. There is enough space inside for comfortable placement. Does not deform under weight. The self-locking zipper prevents the cat from escaping. Carrying parameters: 33*30*45cm. Country of origin: China.
Advantages:
- Large viewing window with tinting;
- Well-thought-out air circulation system on three sides;
- Made from durable materials;
- Fan with several operating modes using touch control;
- Hidden pocket with zipper;
- Thanks to the internal lighting, it is suitable for walking in the dark.
Flaws:
- The kit does not include a battery to power the backlight.
Thanks to the non-standard size of the viewing window, the model stands out from similar backpack carriers. The model with a porthole resembles an aquarium. Important elements are the anatomical back with a shock-absorbing effect and durable straps that do not chafe the shoulders. There is a handle on top in case you need to carry it by hand.
Melenni Standard VIP S
A semicircular backpack with a window. Can be worn over your shoulders or in front of you. Equipped with wide adjustable straps. Weight: 400 g. Country of origin: Russia. The warranty period is 6 months. Price up to 4000 rubles.
Advantages:
- Elastic animal restraint in the neck area;
- Leash with carabiner inside;
- Foam-compacted bottom;
- Orthopedic back;
- Breathable mesh in the front;
- Two spacious pockets on the sides.
Flaws:
- Small capacity;
- If used in rainy weather, the cat will get wet.
In backpack carriers, the animal is subjected to slight shaking that occurs when the owner moves. The Melenni Standard VIP S model is equipped with a belt mount that securely fixes and reduces discomfort to a minimum. When placing an order on the company’s website, you can replace the standard “VIP” embroidery with the pet’s name. The cost of the additional service is 300 rubles.
Best Retainer Bag for Cats
Retainer bags are used for carrying and painlessly carrying out hygiene procedures and medical manipulations with a pet. The product securely fixes the animal and provides access to all parts of the body. Among the 4 nominees considered, only one model was included in the rating.
OSSO Fashion S C-1019
The OSSO Fashion S C-1019 retainer bag is convenient for trips to the veterinarian or groomer, as well as for home ear cleaning and nail trimming. Made from durable material. Equipped with four zippers for separate access to each paw. The tail section opens with a Velcro flap. Designed for an animal weighing 6-8 kg. Country of origin: Russia. You can buy it in online stores for 700-1000 rubles.
Advantages:
- Reinforced bottom providing protection against cat claws;
- Soft fleece collar that does not rub your neck;
- Waterproof fabric;
- Comfortable strap handles;
- Easy access to all parts of the body;
- Bright design.
Flaws:
- Weak Velcro;
- Pronounced smell of tarpaulin (gradually dissipates).
When buying OSSO Fashion S C-1019, you need to keep in mind that the product should fit the cat tightly. Otherwise, it will not be possible to achieve a strong fixation. The animal will get out of the spacious bag in a matter of minutes. Before leaving the house, it will not be superfluous to first check the strength of Velcro and locks.
If the animal refuses to sit in the carrier
Most often, the animal associates carrying with fear, injections and unpleasant procedures. If the carrier is placed somewhere inaccessible to the cat, it does not have the opportunity to get used to this item.
It is better to place the carrier on the floor two weeks before the event so that the animal can get used to the smell and shape of the object, then the carrier will be perceived as part of the house and will not cause too much anxiety.
Preference should be given to strong structures, since even the calmest animals can break the carrier’s lock out of fear.
You can accustom the animal gradually, first locking it in a carrier for a couple of minutes in the apartment, then taking it outside for a short time so that the cat realizes that it is not locked in forever and the cage will definitely be opened.
Best Cart for Cats
A pet carrier trolley will become an indispensable accessory for long-term trips. The design resembles a travel bag. Equipped with wheels and retractable handle. One model out of 3 considered made it to the TOP list. The leader has outperformed its competitors in terms of reliability and convenience.
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Ibiyaya Eva
Rectangular in shape, ideal for traveling with cats and dogs weighing up to 8 kg. Made from high quality washable microfiber. Weight: 2.26 kg. Can be worn as a backpack on your back or in your hand as a bag. Country of origin: China.
Advantages:
- Convenient to place and remove the animal;
- Carabiner for leash;
- Continuous air circulation thanks to mesh on three sides;
- Loop for fastening to the car seat;
- Three spacious pockets.
Flaws:
- The zipper on the pocket may get stuck;
- When moving, you have to tilt the cart.
The Ibiyaya Eva carrying trolley, with dimensions of 30*34*50 cm, has a discreet classic design in dark colors. The model is equipped with reflective stripes. According to reviews, it is convenient to use it in the dark without worrying about safety.
Accompanying documents
In this chapter I will describe the most necessary things that are required almost everywhere when traveling with animals. But when you decide to travel to another country, check the requirements for transporting cats of that country. They are similar in most countries, but may have their own characteristics.
The first thing that must be done is a vaccination against rabies, with a mark and seal of the state veterinarian in the passport. It is important that the vaccine is given no earlier than 30 days before departure and no later than one year.
There must be a veterinary passport, issued with notes on preventive treatments for your animal.
Then, a few days before departure, you need to go to a state veterinary hospital, where you will be issued an F-1 veterinary certificate. In it, the veterinarian will record your data and indicate the route to follow.
At customs, the certificate will be replaced with an international certificate for entry into another state.
In addition, the animal must be microchipped in advance; basic information about the cat and owner will be recorded on it. In most countries this is a mandatory requirement.
Special rules apply when transporting by rail; for some time they required the purchase of a compartment or SV. The rules change periodically, so check this point in advance.
How to choose a cat carrier
A high-quality cat carrier provides ease of transportation and helps your pet feel confident while traveling. Therefore, you should approach the purchase of an accessory thoroughly. There are several criteria that will help you make the right choice.
Type of carrying
It is considered one of the determining criteria for selection. For trimming nails and carrying out grooming procedures, a carrier-fixator is suitable. When traveling by plane, you cannot do without a carrying bag that complies with air travel regulations. For walks and short trips, folding carrier bags and backpacks are indispensable. Such models are considered practical and universal.
Size and weight
The parameters of the bag should allow the animal to take a comfortable position and, if necessary, freely change its body position. When choosing the right size, you should focus on the size of the cat. The weight of the accessory affects the comfort of the owner. When hiking, you will have to carry the carrier in your hands. The most comfortable carrying capacity is no more than 1 kg.
Design
The product can be equipped with the following useful elements:
- Doors, windows;
- Carabiner for leash;
- Pockets for storing small items;
- Holes or mesh for air circulation;
- Straps and fastenings.
The cost depends on the design. Cheap cat carriers usually do not come with additional features.
Material
Mandatory - environmentally friendly materials that allow air to pass through. Models made from water-repellent fabrics are also practical. The manufacturing material must not be toxic. A persistent chemical odor indicates potential health hazards.
Reliability and comfort
Choose a model with elements that ensure reliability when moving:
- Zipper fasteners;
- Strong locks and Velcro;
- Connectors for fastening when traveling by car;
- Reliable doors;
- Soft restraints for your pet in the neck area.
An additional advantage will be: a soft inner lining, a hard bottom, a strong frame, a scratching post, and a drinking bowl.
Container
The carrier must be durable and have a strong and strong bottom. The container meets these requirements. It is convenient to safely place it on the floor of a vehicle.
With a huge number of people, your pet will be fine. It is convenient and practical in personal care.
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It is not difficult to wash it with warm water using special preparations. The container can serve you for quite a long period.
Which cat carrier is best?
Choose the appropriate option based on several factors: the conditions of the upcoming transportation, budget, and the nature of the pet. We recommend the following models for purchase:
If you need to buy an inexpensive cat carrier - Teremok SPO-5. A universal model for a low price copes with its direct functions.
An easy-care carrier for cats - plastic model Homepet. Easy to clean, no absorption of foreign odors.
When going on a long trip - the Ibiyaya Eva carrying trolley. Easy to move thanks to wheels and retractable handle.
If necessary, free your hands - Petkit Fresh Wind Cat Backpack in the form of a backpack. Protects the cat from shaking with a belt mount that secures the product.
For air travel - Triol 30171L carrying bag. It is allowed to be taken into the cabin of an aircraft, since the model is manufactured in accordance with the standards.
Which model is better is up to the cat owner to decide. The main thing is that the pet is not afraid and does not experience discomfort when moving.
Carrying cost
How much does a cat carrier cost? Prices vary depending on the material of the product, capacity, additional accessories and of course what is fashionable this season. Sling carriers and houses on wheels always looked interesting.
Don't forget that you can make your own cat carrier. Most often these are bags or backpacks sewn at home on a machine.
No animal will have such an individual personal vehicle.
