A Guide for Choosing the Best Cat Carrier

Types of Cat Carriers

Here's a rundown of the most common cat carriers you'll find, along with their pros and cons.

Cardboard Carriers

Shelters give this type of carrier to new cat parents at the time of adoption. You shouldn't use this as a regular carrier because it's not constructed for long-term use. The cardboard fibers will eventually break down, your kitty will chew on it and the sides will become less rigid. You can keep it around the house as a fun hideout for your kitty, though.

Soft-Sided Carriers

Carriers with soft shells are made with sturdy yet flexible materials such as polyester, nylon and microfiber. A soft-sided carrier is less heavy than a hard carrier. It's also pliable, making it easier to maneuver safely into tight spaces, such as under an airplane seat. This can come in handy when you need to store the carrier when it's not in use. While soft carriers are durable, your cat can easily damage the material with their claws and teeth. Soft carriers also don't provide as much protection as a hard-sided carrier.

Hard-Sided Carriers

A perennial favourite for its ease of use, a hard cat carrier is more durable than other styles. The hard shell provides a sturdy space for your cat to chill while traveling. Hard carriers typically don't come with their own padding, but you can place a towel, small blanket or even a tiny pet bed inside to make your cat more comfortable. If you do insert padding, be sure your kitty still has enough room to move around comfortably. The biggest downside to hard-sided carriers is that they are bulkier and hard to stow away when they're not in use.

Rolling Carriers

The biggest perk of a rolling pet carrier is its maneuverability. It's a great option if you can't bear heavy loads. But, you have to remember to treat a rolling carrier with extra care. "Make sure to keep it level — carry it like a fragile present, not a piece of luggage," advises Pleasant Paws Veterinary Care. "A small amount of movement on the outside can seem like a carnival ride to a scared cat inside."

Cat Strollers and Backpacks

You can also transport your pet in a cat stroller or backpack. While these carriers can be fun, keep in mind that they can also be more stressful for cats than other carriers. A stroller doesn't provide the same amount of protection as a sturdier pet carrier, and a backpack can force your cat into an uncomfortable and awkward position.

If you're using a cat carrier, the possibility of needing to transport them in a car is probably very likely. In these cases, you might look for a cat carrier that is specially designed to clip into seat belts. This will help the carrier from sliding around in the car, stressing out your cat further, helping to prevent injury if you have to make a sudden stop.

The Best Cat Carrier for Difficult Cats

Getting your cat into their carrier can be an arduous process. And if your cat is irritable by nature, it can be even more of a challenge. Your secret weapon? A towel. If your kitty won't get into their carrier, gently wrap them in a towel and place them inside yourself. You also can line the carrier with a towel and place another one on top of the carrier to make it nice and cozy. And if they won't come out of the carrier? Use the same method, but be extremely careful reaching in.

The American Association of Feline Practitioners reports that the best carrier for a difficult cat is a hard-sided carrier. You can remove and replace the top with ease and the latched front gate will keep your fur baby securely locked in.

No matter which carrier you choose, don't forget to label the carrier with your name, contact information and a photo of your cat. This label is vital in the rare chance that you and your kitty get separated. Ultimately, go with the carrier that keeps your feline friend the safest and most comfortable while in transit.