A good carrier is essential equipment that you will use throughout your cat’s life. The right carrier reduces stress for both you and your cat during veterinary visits and travel.

Hard-Shell Carriers

Plastic hard-shell carriers provide secure containment, easy cleaning, and durability. Top-loading models allow you to lower anxious cats in rather than pushing them through a front door. They are required for airline cargo travel and provide the best protection during car travel.

Soft-Sided Carriers

Lightweight and comfortable for the cat, soft carriers feature mesh ventilation panels and often expand to provide more space. They are ideal for veterinary visits and airline cabin travel. Choose carriers with sturdy frames that do not collapse and secure zipper closures.

Backpack Carriers

Bubble-window backpack carriers have become popular for adventurous cats. They distribute weight comfortably and allow cats to observe their surroundings. They are not suitable for all cats and should only be used with cats who are comfortable with the experience.

Sizing

The carrier should be large enough for your cat to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so large that the cat slides around during transport. For two cats who travel well together, a larger carrier may work, but separate carriers are generally less stressful.

Carrier Training

Leave the carrier open in your home permanently with comfortable bedding inside. Feed treats and occasional meals in the carrier. This prevents the carrier from being associated solely with stressful events. A carrier-trained cat enters willingly, dramatically reducing veterinary visit stress.

Emergency Readiness

Keep one carrier per cat accessible for emergency evacuation. In emergencies, there is no time to search for or assemble carriers. Store carriers in easily accessible locations with a familiar blanket inside and ready to go.