The 5 Best Cat Carriers For Nervous Cats

The 5 Best Cat Carriers For Nervous Cats

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Sometimes it is necessary to transport your cat to the vet or even with you on a much deserved vacation. You will want to invest in a quality cat carrier to keep your cat safe and secure during these outings. Cat carriers come in many shapes, sizes and designs depending on you and your cats needs. If you plan to take your cat on an airplane, you will want a carrier that is airline approved, so be sure to check with the specific airline for their requirements. If you are in the market for a cat carrier then hopefully one of these fit your needs.

The Best Cat Carriers Comparison Chart

Types of Carriers

Before choosing a cat carrier there are a few important things to consider. The first being the carrier has adequate ventilation, with openings on three sides. It is also helpful to have a cat carrier that opens from the top as well as in the front. Some cats may refuse to get into or out of the carrier and have to be loaded and unloaded. It is much easier from the top than the front or side in this scenario. The bottom line is that it is worth investing in a safe and reliable cat carrier when moving your precious cargo.

Cardboard Carrier – These are usually temporary for transporting your cat. Most cardboard carriers are the same size and do have a lot of space for your cat to comfortably move around. Some cats  have been known to chew through the cardboard or soil it during travel. The opening is not very secure so there is a risk of the cat pushing or pulling his way out of the carrier.

Soft Carriers – These are usually made with flexible materials but sturdy. They are not as bulky or sturdy as hard plastic carriers. Soft carriers usually have more than one opening but can be harder to clean if your cat makes a mess inside. If your cat likes to scratch, he may tear up the carrier. Some cats have been known to push their way out of the carrier at the zipper is not secured.

Rolling Suitcase Style Carriers – These carriers tend to be a little more roomy for the cat and also allow for the cats to see their surroundings. A rolling carrier is better when travelling with other items because you are able to roll the cat to the destination. They can be hard to clean if there is an accident. Some cats do not like the loud and bumpy movement of being rolled across pavement.

Hard Plastic Carriers – Most hard carriers provide ample room for the cat to turn around and stretch while still allowing for the feeling of security. Many have a removable top and are easy to clean if soiled. They are also more durable than the previously mentioned carriers.

Top 5 Best Cat Carriers Reviewed

#1 PetLuv Soft Sided Pet Carrier

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The PetLuv carrier makes transporting your cat easy with its roomy design and features like all-around windows, locking zippers and reinforced seams for added safety. It is constructed to be tear-resistant with heavy duty rubber mesh and closing flaps.

This carrier is great for car rides thanks to the adjustable seat belt loops to secure your kitty in tight. It’s easy to reach in and can be loaded through the four access panels and top opening, so you can get your cat in and out with ease.

The top carrying handles and adjustable shoulder straps make carrying easy and it includes a removable, washable plushy bed for easy clean up.

#2 Petsfit Expandible Carrier

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Petsfit Carrier provides extra space for long rides. The bottom expands to twice the size when the porch is folded out. This is a great carrier for larger cats and can hold a cat up to 13 pounds.

Some features are a big storage pocket, durable and washable removable mat, inner leash and locking zippers. This carrier folds down completely flat for storage.

#3 AmazonBasics Soft Sided Carrier

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This carrier provides two connecting loop handles for balanced carrying and for functioning as a dual seat belt or luggage strap for a secure transport. It includes an adjustable shoulder strap for hands-free carrying as well as a zipper on the front, double zippers on the top to keep the openings securely closed during transport.

This soft-sided carrier features a spring wire frame that can be conformed to the under-seat dimensions of most major domestic airlines. It also has front and top openings, which allow for easy entry and stress-free loading.

It comes with a removable base insert, which creates a solid surface for your cat to stand on, along with a removable fleece pet bed, which offers a cozy sleeping space for your traveling pet. The fleece bed can be machine-washed.

#4 Petluv Premium Cat Carrier

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This Petluv carrier is the perfect size for medium to large sized cats, or even 2 to 3 cats. It can hold up to 45 pounds combined. It is equipped with adjustable padded shoulder straps and seat belt restraints for safety. The steel frame is fully collapsible for storage and the zippers lock.

It is covered in soft material and the mesh doors are coated in hypoallergenic PVC. There are a total of 4 openings, top, front and 2 side panels. This carrier can be converted to a wheeled carrier for pulling.

#5 Sherpa Travel Original Deluxe Airline Approved Pet Carrier

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This Sherpa Travel Original Deluxe Airline Approved Pet Carrier has mesh on three sides and the top so your pet has enough ventilation and air flow. It is a lightweight carrier that offers both hand straps and a shoulder strap for comfort in all carrying positions. 

A removable hard board helps with durability and makes cleaning the fabric easy. This carrier collapses flat for convenient storage and is compliant with most airlines (always check with your specific airline for carry-on size restrictions).

Features

Most cats prefer a comfortable, cozy and enclosed space, that also provides him with a sense of security. When cats get scared or feel stressed, they tend to hide or fight.

By choosing a cat carrier that provides solutions for your cats travel issues and that also has the features you both like, traveling will be easy and secure. Here are some common features you will find when searching for a cat carrier.

Door Openings – A single door only allows one point of entry for your cat. If your cat does not cooperate, it maybe hard to get him in or out of the carrier with one point of entry. Some have top openings in addition to side or front doors. This makes it easier to put the cat in the carrier through the top with minimal stress. More openings allows a variety of ways to access your cat.

Exterior Pockets – Of course pockets are always great for carrying snacks for your cat or important contact information.

Removable Bedding – Many carriers come with a removable pad or bedding making clean up easy. Some even come with two in case of an accident while travelling.

Wheels – Some carriers come with recessed and removable wheels. This makes travel easier when you have several bags to carry. Recessed wheels have been said to be smoother and more quiet.

Reinforcement Screws/Latches –Screws or latches are an easy way to take the top off a hard carrier so your cat may be examined by the vet while remaining in the bottom of the carrier. It can be a little more time consuming but they provide an extra level of security and reinforcement if you have an uncooperative cat.

Seat Belt Loops – Many carriers come with loops for securing your cat carrier in the car seat belts.

Zipper Window – Quick and easy entry for feedings. Not recommended for cats that can push their way through the opening but some come with a locking mechanism.

Flat Folding – Some carriers can be folded flat when not in use. This can make for easy storage or packing it away when you have arrived at your destination.

Leash Clip – If your cat is likely to break out and run you may consider a leash for him. Some carriers have a leash clip so they are unable to make it far from the carrier.

Airline Approved – Of course many carriers claim to be compliant or even approved by certain airlines. Its always recommended you check with your airline before purchasing a carrier for airline travel.

Conclusion

When buying a carrier for your cat, choose a size comfortable enough for your cat to move around in. A lot depends on how much your cat likes or dislikes being moved around. Also, if buying one for a kitten, then go bigger and approximate his future size.