Rating of the best carriers for cats and cats in 2020

There will come a time when loving owners will definitely take their cat on the road - be it a trip to the country or a trip to the veterinarian.

To ensure that moving from point A to point B is as stress-free as possible for your cat, ensure that your cat has its own means of transport - a cat carrier!

A cat carrier is an important accessory in caring for your pet. After all, it provides the animal with comfort, coziness, tranquility and, most importantly, safety.

How to choose the right cat carrier

Before buying the most beautiful carrier in a pet store, decide:

• why exactly do you need it;
• how long will it withstand the onslaught of your cat.

The most affectionate and graceful cat, locked in a carrier, feeling that she is being taken out of her usual home, turns into a furious fury and only a pen can get from a beautiful, but low-quality cat carrier to the final destination of the journey.

Next, select the purposes for which you are purchasing this important device:

• Carrying over short distances (to the nearest veterinarian’s office);
• For transportation on long trips (travel on a train, on an airplane);
• For traveling in the car (to the country house or to another apartment).

And having already soberly assessed these points, we begin to carefully select a carrier.

What should be in a good carrier:

• Inspection holes. When a cat is in control of a situation, its anxiety level decreases;
• Hard bottom. Solid ground underfoot is not only reassuring to humans;
• Strong clasps to prevent escape;
• Space. The animal should not sit in a cramped position; it is ideal if the cat inside the carrier can stand up to its full height and take a couple of steps.

Today there are a lot of different types of transportation for cats, radically different in materials, sizes, etc.

In order to make the right choice when purchasing a carrier, pay attention to:

How to transport a cat correctly?

Before a long trip, it is important to familiarize yourself with the rules for transporting an animal so as not to cause discomfort to yourself or your pet.

Conditions for transporting animals on an airplane

The weight of the animal will directly determine in which part of the plane it will fly, namely, in the passenger or cargo part. Of course, every owner wants his pet to be next to him during the flight. You are allowed to bring an animal weighing no more than 8 kilograms on board the plane, into the passenger compartment. The animal must be in a special cage or box. The dimensions of the carrier should not be more than 45x35x25 centimeters. This rule is very strict, and your square will be measured with a tape measure to avoid violations. Many airlines allow you to remove your pet from its cage during the flight. But this only applies to those who fly with the owner. Also, before the flight, it is mandatory to present the animal’s veterinary passport and a certificate of its health. These documents must be prepared two weeks before the planned flight.

Conditions for transporting animals in a car

The rules for transporting a cat or any other animal are very similar to the rules for transporting any cargo. It is important that while driving on the highway, the pet does not interfere with the driver’s control of the vehicle. Never let your cat roam around the inside of your car. Even if your pet is very calm, in some situation that is incomprehensible to him, he may get scared and jump on the driver’s steering wheel, blocking his view. Do not create emergency situations on the road. In order to avoid such situations, transport the cat or cat in a special box or cage. The cage must be fastened with seat belts to avoid injury to the animal during sudden braking. Choose a box that is the right size for your pet. If the cat is very nervous on the way, drools and meows loudly, then in this case give her a light sedative, which should have been prepared in advance for the trip.

If you are a truly responsible owner, then try to purchase the best and highest quality for your pet. Animals are completely dependent on our decisions. After all, as they say: we are responsible for those we have tamed.”

Size

This is a very important criterion, since the comfort of your pet directly depends on it.

Do you remember how we identified the purpose of purchasing a baby carrier? If you need it for long trips, then buy a carrier that is one and a half times larger than your cat. The animal must be free to turn and change its position during the trip.

For trips over short distances, a container in which the animal can simply lie freely is sufficient.

Making the right choice

If you do not plan to travel frequently with your cat, a cloth bag is the best option. For long trips, it is advisable to give preference to a plastic product, a metal cage or a wicker basket. For air transportation you will need a special product. Before purchasing a specific model, check with the airline regarding the relevant requirements (different companies have different requirements). The design of the carrier is of considerable importance (especially for ladies). When shopping in an online store, carefully look at the photo and choose a color option.

Weight

Carrying should be convenient and as comfortable as possible for human use.

It is tempting to buy the lightest carrier, but there is a high risk that a powerful animal will deal with it in minutes.

How to choose a cat carrier, focusing on the entire pet?

• For cats weighing up to 5 kg, a carrier weighing 1.1 – 1.2 kg is suitable.
• For cats weighing up to 8 kg, a carrier weighing 1.8 kg is required.
• And if you have a giant cat weighing about 12 kilograms, then buy him a personal vehicle weighing 2.5 kg - 2.7 kg.

Major manufacturers of cat carriers

Among the main ones, “Triol”, “Iata”, “Atlas”, “Savic”, “Sturdi”, “Skudo”, “Dogman”, “Ferplast”, “Gulliver”, “Karlie”, “Clipper”, “Marchioro” "

Stefanplast Gulliver 2 Delux – the best carrier for cats

This plastic carrier is quite roomy and has a metal door (Stefanplast, Italy). It is perfect for a pet weighing up to 8 kg.

Carrying in the form of a comfortable house is a good option for traveling in transport. The product has a durable and reliable design. The box is made of high quality plastic that will not deform. The presence of a metal door with a reliable lock will not allow the cat to escape.

The carrier comes with a set of spare latches and a food bowl. It is convenient to attach it to the door. Ventilation is ensured by the presence of side openings. The manufacturer provided special boxes on the roof of the device. You can store various small things in them. A nearby lockable window allows the owner to quickly gain access to the cat. Boxing weight – 1.98 kg. Dimensions: 56x36x35 cm.

• Plus: there is a hole for seat belts.
• Disadvantage: you need to check with the airlines whether it is permissible to carry such a carrier in the aircraft cabin.

Cost: 1736 rub.

Types of cat carriers

Soft textile carrying bag

Soft carriers are not so soft - each of them has a built-in frame or thick walls. It is their qualities that the animal owner needs to evaluate first - press on the walls of the carrier. At the point where force is applied, the carrier bends, but it should quickly return to its original form.

Examine the seams carefully - bend the plastic-reinforced seams to test its flexibility.

Examine the meshes on the viewing windows to see if they are of sufficient quality.

The presence of a pocket on the outside of the textile carrier and/or built-in fabric partitions (for the ability to transport two cats at the same time) is a nice bonus to the purchase.

Advantages and disadvantages of cloth carriers for cats.

Pros:

• Light weight;
• Two pairs of handles, allowing you to carry the bag both in your hand and over your shoulder;
• Possibility to store folded.

Minuses:

• Lack of a strong frame;
• Wetness;
• Rapid wear and tear (the claws of a cat that is trying to break free leave little chance for such a carrier).

Read how to choose a house for a cat.

Cat transport baskets

A wicker carrier is stronger than a fabric carrier. But experts do not recommend having only a transportation basket at home. Let's take a closer look at why?

Pros:

• A wicker basket has rigid walls;
• Made from natural material;
• Light in weight.

Minuses:

• Natural material easily absorbs liquids;
• Unpleasant odors are also absorbed;
• Wicker carriers cannot be washed.

Backpack carrier for cats

This is a hands-free format, not much different from a textile carrying bag...for the owner. But for the cat...

So, the advantages and disadvantages of carrying a backpack.

Pros:

• There is no need to look for a place to put your backpack in transport or on the road;
• The backpack is often equipped with wheels that turn it into a wheeled cart;
• The person has free hands.

Minuses:

• The cat is shaking.

Plastic box

A plastic box is already a rigid structure, which, judging by reviews, is preferred by most experienced cat owners.

A plastic cat carrier has its advantages:

• Unlimited service life;
• This cat carrier is easy to clean and dry;
• A hard container gives the cat a greater sense of security because it protects it from accidental touches.

But a plastic cat carrier also has a disadvantage, which we will not remain silent about:

• Loudness. Yes, it is inconvenient to carry it, it is difficult to find a place for it in transport. But in some cases, plastic cat carriers are necessary - for example, during air travel.

How much does a cat carrier cost?

Many furry owners are interested in how much a cat carrier costs. In fact, the price of a product is formed based on many factors:

• brand;
• type of carrying;
• maximum load;
• materials used in production.

In general, today the minimum cost of a cat carrier is about $15. For this money you can buy a regular bag, backpack or plastic box. Please note that in this case there is no need to talk about durability - low-quality materials often hide behind low prices.

The most optimal cost for such an accessory is $50-80. This way you can be sure of the quality of the chosen model and its durability. Of course, there are more expensive carriers, but this is more a consequence of the popularity of a particular brand.

Popular cat carriers – characteristics, pros, cons

1. Marchioro Clipper “Cayman 1” – container for an airplane;
2. Backpack carrier Rocket;
3. SturdiBag Large – carrier bag for cats;
4. Carrying bag "Triol" on wheels,
5. Trixie Cat Cage #2;
6. Ferplast ATLAS 10 VISION – open container;
7. Elite Valley Aquarium Exhibition Cage;
8. Techome open pet bag is a budget option.

Marchioro “Cayman 1” – for aircraft

A durable Italian carrier made of plastic and metal is suitable for transporting cats and small breed dogs. It is particularly reliable and has a reinforced bottom. The lid of the product has holes for good ventilation. The metal door has a secure lock with a clipper clasp mechanism.

The carry has a very comfortable handle and has an additional attachment for a shoulder strap, which must be purchased separately. The carrier is collapsible, making it easy to wash and store. Suitable for animals weighing up to 10 kg. The carrier can be taken on an airplane as it complies with International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards.

• Plus: suitable for air travel.
• Disadvantage: wheels, drinking bowl, belt and grate on the bottom must be purchased additionally.

Price: 2059 rub. Buy

Backpack carrying Rocket

The original U-pet space backpack with a porthole window and a rocket print not only attracts the attention of others with its unusual design, but is also highly functional. It will be convenient for both the owner and the animal to travel in such a carrier.

The backpack is reliable and practical, thanks to its spacious dimensions and rigid frame. Side openings made of mesh material provide good ventilation. Using such a carrier frees the owner’s hands and gives the cat the opportunity to observe everything that is happening around. Product dimensions: 45x32x23 cm.

• Plus: stylish.
• Minus: can withstand cats weighing up to 7 kg.

Price: 2131 rub. Buy

SturdiBag Large

The Large model is considered the most popular carrier from the Sturdi manufacturer. This bag can hold up to 18kg and can handle the weight of even the largest cat.

For ease of use, the bag opens both from the top and from the side. The curtains and carrying net can be rolled up and secured with Velcro. The bag's strap is adjustable to suit the owner's height and is equipped with a soft cushion. The handle of the bag is made of genuine leather. The curtains of the bag are secured with Velcro. The product is equipped with a harness that is attached to the carrier. The base of the bag has a lightweight and durable foam board bottom.

Can be washed in an automatic washing machine. Product size: 30.5×30.5×45.5 cm.

• Plus: there are seat belt mounts.
• Cons: high price.

Price: 7899 rub. Buy

Carrying bag "Triol" on wheels

Convenient fabric bag on wheels for cats with a solid base. The carrier closes with two clasps. To store small items, there are side pockets with Velcro and pockets on the back wall of the bag. The product is equipped with a regular faux leather handle, a comfortable telescopic handle and a shoulder strap.

For ventilation, the side window and the window on the front wall of the product are made of mesh. So that the animal can observe what is happening, the curtain on the window of the front wall can be twisted and secured with Velcro. Bag size: 45x34x37 cm.

• Plus: convenient choice of transportation methods.
• Disadvantage: high cost.

Price: 5490 rub. Buy

Trixie cat cage No. 2

A chrome-plated cat cage with a plastic tray is suitable for transporting an animal in a car. The door is located on the short side and opens outward. The tray is equipped with sides and extends so that it can be removed without removing the animal from the cage. The cage is very reliable and strong, all welded joints are well processed. Product size: 64x54x48 cm.

• Plus: the cage disassembles for easy storage.
• Cons: high price.

Price: 3370 rub. Buy

Ferplast ATLAS 10 VISION

The open container from Ferplast is suitable for both cats and small dogs. The model is made of steel gratings coated with plastic and a durable plastic basket-pallet. The product has two doors, one of which is located on top of the carrier, the second - in front.

The cage is protected from accidental opening during transport. The front door, when closed, is attached to the tray, and the upper part can only be opened using a special lock. The cage is easy to clean. Dimensions: 48x32.5x29 cm.

• Plus: the kit includes a feeder and a mattress.
• Disadvantage: the possibility of transportation in the cabin must be checked with the airline.

Price: 2699 rub. Buy

Cage for the Elite Valley "Aquarium" exhibition

The lightweight and convenient exhibition cage has a collapsible design. The product is a frame made of plastic tubes, onto which a removable cover made of PVC film, textile and mesh is stretched. All walls are connected to each other using a zipper. The cage is quickly and easily disassembled and assembled - this is convenient for owners who show their pets at exhibitions.

• Plus: the cage is equipped with a bag-cover for transportation and storage.
• Cons: high price.

Price: 3869 rub. Buy

Techome Open Pet Bag

The inexpensive carrier is made of environmentally friendly plastic and fabric. The bottom is detachable for easy cleaning of the product. The carrier folds into a small bag, which is convenient for storing it. Ventilation of the product is carried out using a mesh.

The carrying bag can be carried either in the hand or over the shoulder. The bag comes with a shoulder strap with adjustable length. The carrier has a bright modern design. Size: 35x20x22 cm.

• Plus: low price.
• Cons: Suitable for cats weighing less than 4 kg.

Price: 825 rub. Buy

The best backpacks for cats and cats

For those who often travel by public transport, cat carriers in the form of backpacks are especially relevant. They usually have a low price, are lightweight and compact. But due to shaking when walking, the pet may become nervous and strive to get free.

Chelsea Pet – convenient backpack-carrying

5

★★★★★

editorial assessment

96%

buyers recommend this product

Chelsea Pet is a multifunctional backpack that allows you to comfortably travel with your cat both around the city and beyond. The 33-liter carrier is suitable for pets of most breeds, as it can withstand a load of up to 15 kg.

Wide straps do not put pressure on the owner’s shoulders, and the hard bottom ensures the pet’s comfort. The shape of the carrier is thought out as much as possible and is equipped with many pockets: for a bottle of water, toys, disposable bags or napkins. On the back of the backpack there is a secret compartment for safe storage of the owner’s phone, documents and other personal belongings.

The materials used are wear-resistant and are not afraid of water. There are ventilation meshes on the sides and top. The top ventilation insert can be closed with a zipper at any time. Inside the backpack there is also an elastic strap with a carabiner that allows you to fasten your cat. Each zipper on the carrier has additional protection that prevents accidental opening.

Pros:

• 4 colors to choose from;
• little weight;
• many pockets;
• good ventilation;
• the ability to secure an animal;
• wear-resistant materials.

Minuses:

• expensive - from 4,000 rubles for the smallest backpack in the line;
• sometimes difficult to find on sale.

Chelsea Pet is the choice of active people who prefer to travel with their pet. For a one-time trip to the vet, such a purchase is unreasonably expensive.

Triol – backpack with porthole

5

★★★★★

editorial assessment

91%

buyers recommend this product

The Triol backpack with a porthole is one of the most commonly found pet carrying accessories on the streets. Buyers are primarily attracted by its unusual design - the manufacturer offers a variety of bright colors with patterns on any theme.

The walls and bottom of the backpack are quite rigid, it holds its shape well, and it is comfortable for cats to travel in it.

The frame is covered with durable polyester, which protects your pet from wind and rain. There are small holes around the perimeter that provide ventilation inside the carrier. To view what is happening around the structure, a special porthole is made of transparent plastic.

Pros:

• many colors with bright patterns to suit every taste;
• sold in almost every pet store;
• not afraid of water and wind;
• rigid structure;
• free air ventilation inside.

Minuses:

• not suitable for large animals.

The backpack from Triol can withstand weight up to 7 kg, which means it is suitable only for cats of small and medium breeds.

Reviews of cat carriers

Lyudmila : “When we got a kitten, we immediately thought about buying a carrier, because we realized that we are responsible owners and will see the veterinarian often. It was decided to buy a plastic carrier for growth. We stopped at . My opinion is very positive - the plastic is of high quality, the fastenings are reliable, the bottom does not bend, there are openings for ventilation. The kitten felt calm the first time, today it is also a home.”

Alexander : “My daughter bought a soft carrier bag “Trixie” for the cat. The consultant said that this cat carrier is suitable for small cats. My opinion is ambiguous - on the one hand, the bag is easy to wash, but on the other, the cardboard bottom wears out quickly. In general, the material and tailoring are of high quality, but the handles also quickly lost their presentation. And our cat is still uncomfortable in such a bag. Screams, breaks out."

Magda : “We bought the transportation not according to the manufacturer, but according to our liking - the color of the material attracted attention. And somehow they guessed right. The seams are even, reinforced with such plastic sticks, the zipper is strong, the window is also reliable. Initially, I thought that I was buying a soft carrier for no more than a year, but now we have been using it for three years, and the appearance is still presentable. The only drawback that irritates me is that the fabric collects fur very much. After each trip you have to rake out balls of hair. But I'm not lazy."

The best carts for cats and cats

For owners of large cats and those who cannot hold the animal suspended for a long time, manufacturers offer carrier models with wheels and a retractable handle.

Ibiyaya – stylish carrier on wheels

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

72%

buyers recommend this product

With vibrant colors and thoughtful details, each Ibiyaya baby carrier looks like a stylish accessory. The side walls of the carts are made of soft synthetic material that holds its shape well. Mesh windows provide air circulation. A soft pad is attached to the bottom with Velcro, to which it is convenient to attach a disposable diaper. All materials are easy to clean.

You can roll the cart using the handle, which extends to the height desired by the user. For transportation in a car, the design includes loops for attaching a seat belt. When assembled, the cart takes up minimal space and resembles a large folder for papers, which is especially valuable for owners of small apartments. To unfold or, conversely, fold the cart, a couple of minutes is enough.

Pros:

• durability;
• high quality of materials used;
• stylish design;
• quickly assembles and disassembles;
• telescopic handle;
• easy to clean;
• sold in most stores.

Minuses:

• high price - from 5000 rubles.

The Ibiyaya trolley can be used both as a regular bag and as a backpack carrier. The design allows you to attach handles or straps to it.

How to train a cat to be carried

If a trip looms ahead, then you can’t put off getting acquainted with the carrier. Today, take out the carrier, place it in a non-accessible place, cover it with the cat’s usual blanket and leave it open. If the cat itself shows curiosity and goes into the carrier, do not scare it away, let the animal look around and get used to it.

If the cat ignores the carrier, you need to lure it. Let your favorite toy or food serve as bait - it doesn’t matter.

The right choice of carrier and the cat’s loyal attitude towards it is a guarantee of calm trips in the future.

Best Plastic Cat Cages

This is the most optimal solution for those planning long trips, although it is also relevant for traveling short distances. Moreover, such offers are the cheapest and most accessible on the market. We have selected the two best options for flying on airplanes, transporting an animal on a train, and so on.

Trixie plastic cage for cats 55x36x35

This container was included in our rating of the best carriers for cats because of its versatility and practicality, since it can be used to transport not only furry pets, but also rabbits, small breeds of dogs, etc. Externally, the design looks very impressive, and Indeed, the product is made of high-quality and durable plastic. It is very convenient that the cage closes at the top, and there is a mesh on the side for air flow, as well as for normal visibility. Even if the cat urinates here, the product can be easily disassembled and washed.

Advantages

• There is a hole through which the pet can be given something to drink or eat;
• In general, cats like to stay inside;
• The walls are not scratched even with intense attempts to get out;
• Calm colors;
• Withstands different weights;
• Large side door.

Flaws

• Imbalance is possible when the cat is in one part of the cage;
• May seem too hard and may need some underlayment.

Reviews often note that the Trixie model is easy to carry, since it itself weighs little and has a good handle, the position of which can be changed if necessary.

Moderna Road Runner 1

This is one of the most practical models in our TOP, which can even be used to transport large cats. Moreover, small dog breeds can easily fit into it. Among the conveniences, it is necessary to note the door on the side, through which the pet can see what is happening around, as well as the protection of the lid from rain, there are no holes in it. The animal can stay in this cage for hours without much discomfort before visiting the veterinarian, while traveling by bus, etc.

Advantages

• Light weight;
• Easy to assemble;
• Ease of use;
• Available in several colors;
• Non-toxic materials.

Flaws

• Dependence of price on design.

The Moderna Road Runner 1 model, as reviews show, can be easily disassembled and assembled if necessary, which greatly simplifies its washing. In addition, the plastic from which it is made is resistant to the negative effects of the sun, low temperatures and a number of other factors.

Carrier cage

A cat carrier cage is a convenient and reliable option for transporting your pet over long distances. This design is convenient for traveling in a car or train, or flying to other cities. They take it with them into the aircraft cabin or leave it in the luggage compartment. A pet, sitting in such a cage, sees everything around perfectly, but cannot get out of it. Carrier cages are suitable for transporting multiple animals. Among the disadvantages, we note that this type of carrier is heavy, and the pet in it is not protected from wind, rain and sun.

The best baskets for cats

Toprunner medium medium, 39x29x25 cm, orange - in our rating this is already the second device for transporting furry animals from MODERNA. It has a lot of advantages - light weight of 700 g, ergonomic lid shape, large and durable handle. All this makes the journey comfortable not only for the cat, but also for its owner. However, not everyone may like the need to put it in the basket through the top; there is no door here. This device can easily support a cat weighing up to 5 kg.

Advantages

• High;
• Beautiful colors;
• Translucent cover;
• Unobstructed air flow inside;
• High quality plastic;
• Additional hole in the lid.

Flaws

• Not cheap.

In reviews, buyers focus on the good location of the handle, horizontal, which allows the basket to be properly weighted.

Which carrier is best to buy for a cat?

When purchasing a cat carrier, the first thing to consider is the size of your pet. There should be enough space for the animal to turn around and take any comfortable position during the trip. For a long trip, experts recommend buying carriers with a rigid frame, a designated area for a diaper and a bowl of water.

Another important criterion is a hard floor, thanks to which the animal will feel more confident even when weighed down. The presence of blown meshes or gratings in the design is an additional plus. This will provide the cat with fresh air, and she will also be able to observe what is happening around her.

The ability to fold the structure for convenient storage between trips is especially important for large carriers, and for residents of small apartments. But when traveling by plane, you need to check with the airline in advance about the allowed sizes of carriers, especially if the owner plans to take the cat with him into the cabin.

The most popular cat bags

This option is extremely convenient when it comes to short trips with animals. But, unlike classic plastic devices, there is slightly less space in it. However, there are hundreds of different models to choose from, the best of which are only two cat carriers in our rating.

Folding fabric tunnel bag "Darrell"

For not very large cats, this option will be one of the most suitable. There is enough space inside for your pet to feel comfortable. Thanks to this, the animal will endure trips, airplane flights, trips to the veterinary clinic, etc. with much less stress.

The product is made of durable nylon, which guarantees even load distribution. Buyers do not complain about the ease of use of this model, because it has practical handles and one long strap included. Pets also like it here; they can watch what is happening around them and get the air they need through two chintz windows.

Advantages:

• Beautiful drawing;
• Capacity;
• Allows the pet to breathe normally;
• Lightweight;
• Folds without any problems;
• Machine washable;
• High-quality dense fabric;
• Inexpensive.

Flaws:

• Not everyone likes a dark, confined space;
• A large animal will not be able to stand in it; it is only comfortable to lie here.

In reviews, owners indicate that the Darrell bag has a convenient lock and opens almost along its entire length. This is very important, because there is a seal on the floor inside so that the cat does not fall through. If you need to wash it, you can always remove it and load the entire product into the washing machine.

Folding for small animals “Zoonik”

Outwardly, this bag looks like an ordinary shopping bag, but in fact, even a large cat can comfortably fit in it, because its length is 30 cm, width - 25 cm, and height - 40 cm. That is, he will even stand here without problems. It is quite warm in the cool season and good in the rain, since the product is made of waterproof fabrics. The pet owner will also find advantages here - a small pocket on the side, comfortable handles and a shoulder strap.

Advantages:

• Dimensions;
• Colors;
• Fabric density;
• Reliability of lightning;
• Presence of a pocket;
• Thick and durable handles.

Flaws:

• The fabric is not protected from snags if the cat starts to scratch it;
• A little slippery inside.

The model from the Zoonik brand has a mesh on the side so that the cat can observe what is happening around and breathe normally. But, according to customer reviews, particularly obstinate pets can easily tear it or leave puffs behind while trying to get out.