Movement is important to get from one place to another. We change location using one form of transportation or the other. Your cat also needs some form of transport. Cat carriers which are also called crates or travel shelter are the means to carry our feline friends safely from one place to the other. Simple trips like going to the veterinarian for health issues or going on a vacation with you need a cat carrier. Your cat needs to travel in comfort, safety, and style.
For your peace of mind and your feline’s protection, you should invest in the best cat carrier you can find. Not only will it make traveling convenient, but you will have a happy and healthy cat who is not exposed to danger. So whether it is a road trip, train or via the airplane, your cat can also come with you. Below are ten best cat carriers you won’t regret buying.
Buyer's Guide
There are many options and choices, design and styles of cat carriers in the market. It can be confusing when trying to choose the right one for your cat. There are factors to consider, and things to look out for that will help to make your choice easier. Here are the factors you must consider:
Security
Your cat’s safety is paramount. This is the primary reason why you need a cat carrier in the first place. You want your cat to be safe while in transit. Some cats are great escape artists that are finicky with their paws. Burmilla and the Burmese cat breed have been known to open locks and kitchen cabinet. Check for cat carriers with security features especially if you have got the boisterous or naughty cat breeds. Carriers with lock zippers, double zippers, secure lock system, and strong latches or clasp.
Capacity
This factor determines if the carrier can really carry your cat’s weight. It has to do with the load capacity of the carrier. You don’t want to put your feline baby in a carrier and find her on the floor because the carrier could not hold her weight. So check the load the carrier was designed to carry and compare to your cat’s weight. It is recommended to pick a crate that can carry slightly more than your cat’s weight.
Comfort
You don’t want to have your cat cranky or anxious because the journey was uncomfortable. Long trips can be tiring and stressful even for cats that love the outdoors, however, if you have a nervous cat, you will want to take extra preparations in ensuring its comfort.
Pick carriers that have warm interiors for the winter. Some carriers have blankets and fleece bed to keep your furry snug. If you can’t get a carrier with a fleece mat then, get a carrier that can allow you fit in your cat’s favorite mat, an electric blanket or bed. Also, carriers should have mesh or ventilation slats. This is vital to keep the carrier airy and ventilated particularly in summer.
Size
You need to get a carrier that is big enough to allow your cat to stand in and turn over without being limited. Many airlines have size restrictions, so you should pick carriers that pass most of the commercial transportation requirements. It is key to get the exact measurement of your cat’s size. The standard is to measure the outer edge of your cat’s chest to the outer part of the rear for the length. The height is to measure from the floor to the head of your cat. Add a maximum of 4 inches to your measurement to determine the size of the carrier you choose.
Material
Cat carriers are made from plastic, metal, canvas, nylon, polyester, steel, wire, mesh and stainless steel. Sometimes it is a combination of two or more. Each material type has its own advantages and disadvantages, but you should look for durability. Carriers with durable characteristics will last longer and you won’t have to buy a new carrier anytime soon. Also, lightweight materials will be easy for you to carry.
Maintenance
The way a carrier is maintained may increase the lifespan. Maintenance includes cleaning and storage. Cat carriers that allow you to reach corners, remove inserts and wash without degrading the material or affecting the construction of the carriers should be preferred. Check the material type and instruction for cleaning. If it states to hand wash, then don’t wash in a machine. If you are only allowed to spot clean then follow the exact instruction.
Foldable carriers are also great because you can store them away safely. It reduces the chances of the carrier been exposed to elements that will destroy it.
Versatility
Some carriers have multipurpose. If you have a cat house or bed that can also double as a carrier that will be great. It will be less expensive having one cat accessory that can do all than having to buy separate cat accessories or furniture. Also, having a versatile carrier will help save space in terms of storage.
Ease
Ease of use and portability. If you are one who travels a lot with your cat, you should buy a carrier that is portable and travel-friendly. One that can fold easily, lightweight and easy to store. This will inform the type of carrier you choose to buy and the material it is made of. Having a carrier with rollers at the base might be easier to travel with than one that you have to hoist over your shoulders, especially if you are making a long air trip. Metal carriers will be heavy heaving around. Plastic or fabric material is much lighter
Number and Location of openings
You should get carriers that have more than one opening. This is because it gives you options for loading and offloading your cat. If you have to visit the vet, for instance, a squeamish or aggressive cat may be difficult to bring out of the carrier that has only one opening. You may get scratched or bitten. It is advisable to have both top and front openings. Your cat can stick its head out on top for sightseeing as well.
Types of Cat Carriers
There are majorly four types of carriers on the market. Each has its pros and cons. It is all a matter of preference and needs.
Hard Cat Carriers
They are more common. The name hard is derived from the type of material that is used to make them. Hard carriers are generally made of plastic and a lightweight metal. The body is usually made of plastic while the door or opening is made of metal comprising of wire mesh, steel or stainless steel. You can be sure in case of an external threat, your cat will be secure in this type of carrier.
However, because of the materials, hard carriers are made from, they are quite cumbersome to carry around. You are either have to wrap your hands around it or carry it with your palms. Most have handles to carry with, but you are left worrying if the handle can bear the weight of your cat and the carrier itself.
Hard carriers are well ventilated and easy to clean, ideal for everyday use. Most airlines approve the use of hard cat carriers
Soft Cat carriers
They are made of synthetic fabrics like nylon, polyester, canvas, and others. They are soft, flexible and customizable. Cats also find them comfortable, because it does not hurt their skin when they rub on it while in transit. The interiors are mostly padded or have some wool inserts that provides that extra comfort. The materials used in making soft carriers makes them lightweight and easy to carry around.
Soft carriers have more intricate designs, like flaps or fold that can be put down when your cat needs no distractions to keep calm. They are also easy to store, fold and put away. Soft carriers are also fitted with adjustable shoulder straps and seat belts. You should check that they are made with durable material, a solid bottom, and good construction so that it does not collapse in on your cat.
Backpack Cat Carriers
This is the new trend for carriers. They make it easy to carry your cat around and still have your hands free. They are ideal for short distances. If you love hiking or going out in the woods, you can go with your kitty strapped to your back where she will be safe. Use backpack carriers for a cat weighing less than 10 pounds
Suitcase or Rollers Cat Carriers
If you have cats of large breeds, then the suitcase carrier might be ideal. This carrier can bear the weight of a large cat and not put a strain on your shoulders, back or hands. They are designed to be roomy and comfortable. It is basically, a soft cat carrier on wheels. Although they can be expensive, it is worth the investment and convenience. Avoid carriers with squeaky wheels that may aggravate your cat and make him anxious.
FAQ
Why you need a cat carrier?
It should be an obvious choice for getting a travel crate or carrier for your beloved cat. One major reason is that with a carrier, your cat will be safe through the bumps and shakes of your trip. If you are not fully convinced of its necessity, other reasons include being sure that your cat won’t jump out or escape on transit.
Also, you will get to enjoy the trip: Being a cat parent, you are concerned about the safety and comfort of your cat. Every meow and cry from your cat have you looking in its direction. With a carrier, you can be free of the pressures of keeping your feline safe and secure.
How do I know what size to buy?
Cats are of different breeds, sizes and heights, as such you must consider the size and breed of your cat before choosing a cat carrier. Most cat carriers are designed in various sizes to meet the size requirements. You have brands with more than six sizes of the same cat carrier and at least three sizes. Usually small, medium and large is a general size available. It can be more specific when the inches of length, breadth, and height is stated.
It is recommended that you measure your cat before buying a carrier. Measure from head to tail and head to paw. Do not use the supported weight to determine the cat crate to buy. Lastly, always a size bigger than your cat’s measurement. This will give your cat room to move around.
