Top 10 Cat Carriers Loved by Cat Owners in 2025

Looking for the best pet carrier for cats in 2025? Here are the top choices that cat owners like: Sleepypod Air, Sherpa Travel, Petsfit Expandable, Frisco Soft-Sided, Petseek Extra Large, Adventure Backpack, Sherpa Original Deluxe, Frisco Plastic Kennel, Sleepypod Air In-Cabin, and Petcantalk Polar Smart Wet Food Feeder.

You want your cat to be comfy, safe, and travel easily. Most cat owners want this too. Think about what your cat likes and needs before you pick.

Key Takeaways

• Pick a carrier that matches your cat’s size and personality. Measure your cat so it will be comfortable when you travel.

• Check for safety features like crash testing and strong zippers. These help keep your cat safe during trips.

• Think about how you will travel. Some carriers are best for planes. Others are good for car rides.

Best Pet Carrier for Cats: Top Picks

Sleepypod Air – Best Overall

You want a pet carrier that does everything well. Sleepypod Air is great for comfort and safety. Its design is smart and easy to use. Owners like the roomy inside and how calm cats feel. Dr. Andrea Tu says comfort is very important at the vet. Sleepypod Air is made with strong materials and smooth zippers. The fabric does not rip easily. It is crash tested for car rides. You can take out the walls at the vet. This helps your cat feel less scared. The soft lining keeps your cat warm. Owners give Sleepypod Air very high ratings.

Sleepypod Air fits many travel needs. You can fold the ends for flights or car trips. Many owners say it is the best for peace of mind.

Sherpa Travel – Best for Air Travel

If you fly with your cat, Sherpa Travel makes it simple. Sherpa's AI helps with airline rules, so travel is easier. More people got New Zealand eTA approvals. The time to apply is much shorter now. You feel more sure when booking flights.

• Sherpa Travel is light and easy to carry.

• Lockable zippers keep your cat safe.

• Privacy flaps help shy cats relax.

• Airline approval means you can use it on most flights.

Many owners say Sherpa Travel is best for flying with cats. You get an easy trip and good memories.

Petsfit Expandable – Best for Space

Does your cat like to stretch? Petsfit Expandable gives extra room to relax. Owners say it feels like a bed inside. The wire frame and Oxford cloth make it strong. You get a zipper that locks and many ways to carry it. Petsfit Expandable is approved for airlines, so travel is easy.

You want a carrier that lets your cat move. Petsfit Expandable is a top pick for space and comfort.

Frisco Soft-Sided – Best Budget Option

You want a carrier that works and saves money. Frisco Soft-Sided gives you value and comfort. It is light and easy to carry. Owners like the padded inside and good airflow. You get many ways to put your cat inside. Frisco Soft-Sided is smart if you want a budget carrier.

Petseek Extra Large – Best for Large Cats

Big cats need more space. Petseek Extra Large is roomy and strong. Owners say it fits big cats easily. The carrier has strong zippers and a solid frame. You get lots of airflow and soft bedding. If your cat is big, Petseek Extra Large is best for you.

Adventure Backpack – Best for Versatility

Do you like hiking with your cat? Adventure Backpack is made for you. It can be a backpack or a car seat cover. You get strong, waterproof Oxford cloth and a soft inside. The heart cage design keeps your cat safe. Straps adjust to fit you well.

Owners say Adventure Backpack works for all trips. You get safety, comfort, and style.

Sherpa Original Deluxe – Best for Airline Approval

You want a carrier that airlines accept. Sherpa Original Deluxe is approved by many airlines. Frequent flyers trust Sherpa for being reliable. Over 5,000 Amazon reviews show pet owners love it. The seatbelt strap keeps your cat safe in the car. Sherpa's 'Guaranteed on Board' means you get on the plane or get money back.

• Light and strong

• Washable bedding

• Good airflow

• Looks nice and works well

Frisco Plastic Kennel – Best Hard-Sided Budget

You want safety and strength for less money. Frisco Plastic Kennel is strong and easy to put together. Owners say pets never escape from this kennel. The plastic is easy to clean and does not rust or fade.

• Strong build

• Easy to clean

• Good safety features

Sleepypod Air In-Cabin – Best for Comfort

You want your cat to feel at home when traveling. Sleepypod Air In-Cabin has a soft cover over a comfy foam bed. The pad comes out and you can wash it. You can make the carrier bigger for more space under the seat. Owners say their cats love the soft inside.

• Soft plush inside

• Washable pad

• Can expand for more space

Petcantalk Polar Smart Wet Food Feeder – Bonus: Mealtime Solution

Traveling with your cat means you worry about feeding. Petcantalk Polar Smart Wet Food Feeder fixes this problem. The feeder keeps wet food fresh for 72 hours with a fridge inside. You can set meal times with a phone app. Owners say this helps them worry less on trips.

• Sleek white look fits any home

• One-click serving for easy feeding

• Ice pack spot keeps food fresh

• App lets you feed from far away

• 100% satisfaction guarantee

You get a good way to feed your cat at home or while traveling.

Features and Owner Reviews

Comfort and Safety

You want your cat to feel safe and cozy. Most owners say comfort and safety are very important. Sleepypod Air and Sherpa Travel have soft padding and strong frames. Crash-tested carriers help you worry less on car rides. Privacy flaps and mesh panels help nervous cats relax. These features also help cats breathe better.

Tip: Choose carriers with soft bedding and strong zippers. Your cat will feel happier and more comfortable!

Cleaning and Maintenance

No one likes a dirty carrier. You need one that is easy to clean after trips. Many top carriers have liners or pads you can wash. Frisco Plastic Kennel is easy to wipe down fast. Owners like carriers that do not stain or smell bad. If you travel a lot, pick a carrier that is simple to clean.

Portability and Storage

You want a carrier that is easy to carry and store. Light designs and straps make travel easier. Backpack carriers like Adventure Backpack and Petsfit Pet Backpack Carrier let you use your hands. Some carriers fold flat to save space at home.

Owner Ratings

Owners rate carriers by comfort, safety, and how easy they are to use. Most top picks get high scores for being strong and smart. Some owners say the size or zippers could be better. Always read reviews before you buy. Carriers with crash-testing or sides that expand get extra praise.

Choosing a Carrier

Size and Fit

Your cat needs space to stand, turn, and lie down. Measure your cat’s length and height before shopping. If the carrier is too small, your cat may feel stuck. Growing cats need a little extra room. Mesh panels let air in, so your cat stays cool and comfy.

Tip: Always check the size of the carrier before buying. Your cat will be happier if it fits well!

Cat Personality

Cats have different personalities. Some cats like to look around. Others hide when they get scared. Shy cats do better with covered tops or privacy flaps. Outgoing cats may enjoy clear windows or mesh sides. Strong materials and tight closures stop cats from escaping.

• Shy cats: Covered tops, privacy flaps

• Curious cats: Mesh panels, clear windows

• Active cats: Strong zippers, tough fabric

Travel Needs

Think about where you want to go with your cat. For car trips, bigger carriers with water bottles or litter boxes are best. If you fly, check airline rules for carrier size and approval. Top doors and washable liners make travel easier for you both.

1. Road trips: Bigger carriers, extra features

2. Air travel: Airline-approved, compact design

Budget Choices

Cat carriers cost different amounts. Some cardboard carriers are under $20. Fancy ones can cost over $200. Here are some popular choices:

Pick a carrier that matches your budget and your cat’s needs. You can find safe and comfy carriers at any price.

Buying Guide

Safety Features

When you shop for a cat carrier, safety comes first. Look for crash-tested carriers and sturdy zippers. Many top brands use SGS-certified fabrics that are non-toxic and safe for pets. Some carriers have engineering-grade wheels that last through heavy use. You want a carrier that keeps your cat secure, whether you travel by car or plane.

Materials and Quality

Quality matters for every trip. Carriers with ISO or SGS certifications show they meet high standards. Soft-sided carriers feel light and cozy, but hard-sided ones offer more protection and are easier to clean. If you want durability, check for strong stitching and tough fabric. A good carrier should last for years.

Tip: Always check for washable liners and stain-resistant materials. Your cat will thank you for a clean ride!

Airline Approval

If you plan to fly, make sure your carrier meets airline rules. Many airlines require carriers to fit under the seat and have good ventilation. Look for labels that say "airline-approved." The best pet carrier for cats often comes with a guarantee for boarding, so you can travel with less stress.

First-Time Tips

Getting your cat used to a carrier takes patience. Try these steps:

1. Place familiar toys or blankets inside.

2. Leave the door open so your cat can explore.

3. Practice closing the door and gently lifting the carrier.

You can also use treats or calming sprays to make the carrier inviting. Clean the carrier after each trip to remove any smells.

• You saw the best cat carriers for 2025. Each one stands out for comfort, safety, or travel ease.

• Pick a carrier that matches your cat’s habits and your travel plans.

• Owner happiness matters most.

Got a favorite carrier or a question? Drop your thoughts below! 🐾

FAQ

How do you get your cat used to a new carrier?

Start by placing treats or toys inside. Let your cat explore it daily. Keep the door open so your cat feels safe.

Can you use a cat carrier for other small pets?

Yes! You can use most cat carriers for small dogs, rabbits, or guinea pigs. Always check the size and safety features first.

What size carrier should you pick for your cat?

Tip: Your cat should stand, turn, and lie down easily. Measure your cat’s length and height before you buy a carrier.