Best Cat Carriers of 2025: Soft-Sided, Hard & Backpack Options

Getting your cat into a carrier is hard enough — the carrier itself shouldn’t make it harder. The right carrier makes vet visits, road trips, and even air travel safer and less stressful for both of you. The wrong carrier is a wrestling match with a terrified animal, a security risk at the airport, and a source of anxiety that can linger for days after the trip ends. In this guide, we break down the best cat carriers across every category — soft-sided, hard-shell, backpack, and airline-approved models — so you can find the right one for your cat, your travel style, and your budget.

What to Look for in a Cat Carrier

Before we get to the picks, here are the key factors to consider.

Soft-Sided vs. Hard-Sided Carriers

The two main carrier types have fundamentally different strengths. Soft-sided carriers are made from fabric (nylon, polyester) with a flexible frame. They’re lighter, more comfortable to carry, easier to store, and usually more inviting for cats — they feel like a cozy hideaway rather than a cage. They’re also required by most airlines for in-cabin travel. The trade-off: they’re less protective in a car accident, harder to clean after accidents, and escapable by determined cats who claw through mesh. Hard-sided carriers (plastic kennels) are rugged, easy to sanitize, offer better impact protection, and are nearly impossible for cats to claw through. They’re heavier, bulkier to store, and less inviting — but they’re the safest choice for car travel and the only option some airlines accept for cargo.

Airline Approval

If you plan to fly with your cat, airline approval is non-negotiable. Most major airlines (Delta, United, American) require soft-sided carriers for in-cabin travel with maximum dimensions around 18" x 11" x 11", though exact requirements vary by airline and aircraft. The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you. Look for carriers labeled “airline-approved” and always verify dimensions against your specific airline’s current policy before traveling — policies change, and being turned away at the gate is a nightmare. For cargo travel, hard-sided kennels with specific hardware (metal nuts and bolts, not plastic clips) are required. The Sherpa Original Deluxe and Mr. Peanut’s Backpack series are among the most consistently accepted in-cabin carriers.

Ventilation

Cats can overheat quickly in enclosed spaces, and poor ventilation makes anxiety worse. Look for carriers with mesh panels on at least three sides for cross-ventilation. Soft-sided carriers should have mesh windows that are small enough to prevent escape but large enough for airflow. Hard-sided carriers need ventilation slits on the sides, back, and door. The best carriers have mesh panels that can be partially covered (for shy cats who feel exposed) without sacrificing airflow. Avoid carriers with only front-door ventilation — they trap heat and smells.

Entry and Exit Options

Getting a reluctant cat into a carrier through a single front door is a universal struggle. Carriers with multiple entry points — a top-loading door in addition to the front door — dramatically reduce the stress of loading and unloading. A top entry lets you lower your cat gently into the carrier rather than pushing them horizontally through a front opening. Some carriers also open from the side or have fully removable tops that convert into a bed. For vet visits, a carrier with a top-loading option means the vet can examine your cat without extracting them entirely.

Size and Weight

A cat carrier should be big enough for your cat to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so big that your cat slides around during travel. A carrier that’s too spacious feels insecure to a cat. A general rule: measure your cat from nose to base of tail and add 4–6 inches for the ideal carrier length. If you’re traveling with multiple cats, each needs their own carrier — never put two cats in one carrier unless they’re bonded littermates who show zero stress when confined together. For air travel, weight matters: carriers over 5 pounds eat into airline weight limits.

Safety Features

Look for carriers with locking zippers — cats can learn to push unsecured zippers open from inside, and a cat loose in a moving car or airport is a disaster. The zipper pulls should have a locking mechanism or a clip that holds them together. Internal leash clips let you secure your cat’s harness to the carrier so they can’t bolt when the door is opened. For hard-sided carriers, the door should have a secure, two-step latching mechanism. For soft-sided carriers, reinforced seams and strong mesh that resists clawing are essential.

Comfort and Cleanability

A carrier that terrifies your cat makes every trip harder. Look for soft, padded bottoms (removable and machine-washable is ideal), fleece or sherpa bedding, and the ability to add a familiar-smelling blanket from home. For cleanability, accidents happen. Hard plastic carriers are the easiest to clean — soap, water, and disinfectant with no lingering fabric odors. Soft-sided carriers should have a removable, waterproof-lined bottom pad and ideally a machine-washable body. Some carriers have wipe-clean interiors that split the difference between soft comfort and hard cleanability.

Top 6 Cat Carriers Reviewed

1. Sherpa Original Deluxe — Best Overall Soft-Sided Carrier

The Sherpa Original Deluxe is the most trusted name in cat carriers for a reason: it’s the carrier most consistently accepted by major airlines for in-cabin travel, and it’s designed with genuine cat psychology in mind. The flexible spring-wire frame compresses by several inches to fit under airline seats that have varying clearances, while providing a structured, den-like interior. Mesh panels on the top and sides offer ventilation and visibility, with fabric cover panels that can be rolled down if your cat prefers a darker, more secure environment. The removable, machine-washable faux lambskin liner is thick and cozy. A top entry zips fully open for easy loading, and locking zippers prevent feline Houdini escapes. The included carry strap converts the carrier to a shoulder bag, and the rear pocket holds treats and documents. The Original Deluxe is available in small, medium, and large, though the medium is the standard in-cabin size.

Pros:

• Most consistently airline-approved soft-sided carrier on the market
• Flexible spring-wire frame compresses for under-seat fit
• Top and front dual entry — top loading reduces loading stress dramatically
• Locking zippers prevent clever cats from escaping
• Removable, machine-washable faux lambskin liner
• Roll-down privacy panels for anxious cats

Cons:

• Mesh panels are durable but not claw-proof — determined cats can tear through
• Spring-wire frame, while flexible, can warp over years of frequent use
• Large size is too big for most airline under-seat dimensions
• Bottom pad absorbs liquid quickly — not waterproof without a liner
• Price is higher than budget alternatives

Verdict: The gold standard for cat carriers, especially for air travel. The Sherpa Original Deluxe is the carrier that most consistently gets through TSA and airline gate agents without issue. The top entry, locking zippers, and cozy interior make it the least stressful option for both cats and owners.

2. Petmate Two-Door Top Load — Best Hard-Sided Carrier

The Petmate Two-Door Top Load solves the biggest problem with hard-sided carriers: the single front door that makes loading a cat feel like stuffing a angry spring into a box. The top door opens wide, letting you lower your cat gently into the carrier from above — a dramatically less stressful loading method. The front door has a secure steel wire door with a two-step locking latch. Both doors are surrounded by ventilation slits that run up the sides of the carrier. The heavy-duty plastic shell can take a beating, is fully washable and disinfectable, and is escape-proof (cats can’t claw through plastic). The Two-Door is airline cargo-approved when assembled with metal nuts and bolts (included). It comes in sizes from 19" (for cats up to 10 lbs) to 28" (for large cats and small dogs up to 25 lbs). The two halves snap together securely, and the top can also be completely removed — the bottom half doubles as a bed or recovery space.

Pros:

• Top-loading door makes loading reluctant cats far easier
• Heavy-duty plastic shell is nearly indestructible and escape-proof
• Easy to clean and fully disinfectable — ideal after accidents or vet stays
• Steel wire front door with two-step locking latch
• Airline cargo-approved when assembled with metal hardware
• Top removes completely — bottom doubles as a bed

Cons:

• Heavy and bulky — not for shoulder-carry or long walks through airports
• Not airline in-cabin approved (too large for under-seat)
• Hard plastic interior requires added bedding for comfort
• Top door hinge can crack if dropped from height
• Carrying handle is molded plastic, not ergonomic for long carries

Verdict: The best hard-sided carrier for cats who ride in the car. The top-loading door is a genuine quality-of-life upgrade over front-only hard carriers, and the rugged construction provides the best protection in a car accident. Ideal as the “car carrier” paired with a soft-sided carrier for air travel.

3. SportPet Designs Plastic Kennel — Best Budget Hard Carrier

The SportPet Designs Plastic Kennel is the cost-effective workhorse of the carrier world. It doesn’t have a top door like the Petmate Two-Door, but it does everything else a hard carrier should do at a lower price. The heavy-duty plastic shell is an IATA-compliant design, suitable for cargo air travel when assembled with the included metal hardware. Large ventilation slits on all sides provide airflow, and the steel wire front door has a squeeze-latch mechanism that cats can’t open. The carrying handle is integrated into the top shell — sturdy but basic. Inside, there’s a small ridge detail that helps contain small spills. The carrier comes with wing-nut and bolt hardware for cargo travel, as well as “live animal” stickers and ID slots. Available in multiple sizes from 21" to 32" to accommodate cats from 5 to 20+ pounds. The plastic itself is slightly thinner than the Petmate, but it holds up well for standard use.

Pros:

• Very affordable — among the cheapest quality hard carriers
• IATA-compliant design with included metal hardware for cargo travel
• Steel wire door with squeeze-latch — secure and cat-proof
• Generous ventilation on all sides
• Multiple size options from 21" to 32"
• Includes live animal stickers and ID holders

Cons:

• No top-loading door — loading requires the front-opening struggle
• Plastic is slightly thinner than premium hard carriers
• Basic carrying handle — not comfortable for extended carries
• Ventilation slits can catch curious paws if cats reach through
• No included bedding or padded bottom

Verdict: The budget hard carrier that doesn’t sacrifice safety. If you need a hard-sided carrier for car travel or cargo flights and want to spend as little as possible without compromising on security, this is it. Just add a cozy blanket or bed for comfort.

4. Mr. Peanut’s Backpack Carrier — Best Backpack Cat Carrier

Mr. Peanut’s Backpack Carrier turns cat transport from a one-arm struggle into a hands-free experience. This carrier looks like a stylish hiking backpack but opens to reveal a well-ventilated, padded interior for your cat. The expandable back panel unzips to give your cat extra space when you’re stationary — ideal for waiting at the vet or during airport delays. Four mesh sides (top, both sides, and back) provide 360-degree ventilation and visibility, with roll-down covers for privacy. The interior has a removable fleece pad and an internal safety leash clip to attach to your cat’s harness. Padded shoulder straps and a chest buckle distribute weight comfortably for the human, and a top handle gives you a grab-and-go option. Airline-approved dimensions fit under most airline seats. Available in multiple colors and a slightly larger “Plus” size for cats up to 15 pounds.

Pros:

• Hands-free backpack design — game-changing for airports, city streets, and hikes
• Expandable back panel creates extra lounging space when stationary
• 360-degree mesh ventilation on four sides
• Internal safety leash clip prevents escape when door is open
• Padded shoulder straps and chest buckle for comfortable carrying
• Airline-approved for in-cabin use

Cons:

• Some cats dislike the motion of being worn as a backpack
• Expandable back section isn’t secure when extended — not for unsupervised use
• Backpack straps aren’t detachable, making it bulky as a standard carrier
• Not suitable for cats over 15 pounds — check weight limits carefully
• Zippers aren’t lockable out of the box

Verdict: The best carrier for cat owners who walk, bike, or navigate crowded spaces. The hands-free design is genuinely liberating, and the expandable back gives your cat room to stretch during long waits. Not every cat will tolerate the backpack motion, but for those who do, it’s a travel revolution.

5. Necoichi Portable Ultra Light Cat Carrier — Best Lightweight Carrier

The Necoichi Portable Ultra Light Cat Carrier solves a specific problem: you need a carrier that you barely notice you’re carrying. At under 2 pounds, it’s the lightest quality cat carrier available, making it ideal for elderly owners, people with back or shoulder issues, anyone navigating public transit, or as a spare carrier kept in the car. The construction uses lightweight polyester with a flexible internal frame that holds its shape while remaining nearly weightless. Mesh panels on the top and sides provide ventilation, and the top opens fully for easy loading. A removable fleece pad lines the bottom. The shoulder strap is padded for comfort, and there’s a storage pocket for treats and documents. Sizes range from small (for cats up to 7 pounds) to extra-large (up to 15 pounds). The portable design includes a seatbelt loop for car travel.

Pros:

• Under 2 pounds — the lightest quality cat carrier available
• Fully opening top for stress-free loading
• Flexible internal frame holds shape without weight
• Padded shoulder strap and storage pocket
• Seatbelt loop for car travel security
• Excellent for elderly owners or anyone with physical limitations

Cons:

• Lightweight materials are less durable than heavier carriers
• Flexible frame can partially collapse if overstuffed or sat on
• Not airline cargo-approved — in-cabin use only
• Mesh is lighter weight than Sherpa — more vulnerable to clawing
• Padding is minimal for long-term comfort

Verdict: The ideal carrier when weight matters most. For elderly cat owners, public transit commuters, or anyone who dreads lugging a heavy carrier through the vet’s parking lot, the Necoichi Portable is a relief. It makes carrying your cat so effortless you’ll stop dreading carrier trips.

6. PetAmi Deluxe — Best Premium Soft-Sided Carrier

The PetAmi Deluxe takes the soft-sided carrier concept and upgrades every aspect with premium materials and thoughtful details. The exterior is a water-resistant 600D oxford fabric that repels rain and wipes clean easily. The interior is lined with a plush, removable sherpa fleece bed that’s machine-washable. Mesh panels on four sides provide ventilation, with zippered covers for privacy. Dual-entry (top and front) makes loading flexible, and both zippers have locking pull-tabs to prevent escape. The rigid internal frame maintains structure even when packed. Beyond the carrier itself, the PetAmi Deluxe includes accessories that competitors sell separately: a collapsible food and water bowl, a shoulder strap, a seatbelt loop, and a luggage strap for securing to rolling suitcases. Airline-approved for most major carriers. Available in two sizes: standard (up to 12 lbs) and large (up to 18 lbs).

Pros:

• Water-resistant 600D oxford exterior — durable and easy to clean
• Plush, machine-washable sherpa fleece bed included
• Dual entry with locking zippers on both openings
• Four-sided mesh ventilation with privacy covers
• Includes collapsible bowl, shoulder strap, seatbelt loop, and luggage strap
• Rigid frame maintains structure

Cons:

• Premium price — among the most expensive soft-sided carriers
• Heavier than simpler soft-sided carriers due to rigid frame
• Sherpa fleece can get warm in summer — swap in a cooling pad
• Large size may exceed airline dimensions for some carriers
• Water-resistant, not waterproof — sustained rain will eventually seep through

Verdict: The luxury option for owners who want the best soft-sided carrier experience. The included accessories, water-resistant exterior, and plush interior justify the premium price. If you travel frequently with your cat and want a carrier that does everything well, the PetAmi Deluxe is the one.

Comparison Table

FAQ

Does my cat really need a carrier, or can I just hold them?

Always use a carrier — even for short trips, even if your cat is calm. A cat held in your arms in a car becomes a projectile in a crash. At the vet’s office, a loose cat can bolt through an opening door. In an airport or on a plane, a carried cat is a security and safety hazard. Even the calmest cat can spook unpredictably at a loud noise, strange dog, or sudden movement. The carrier is your cat’s safety zone. For cats who hate carriers, work on carrier training at home (see below) rather than skipping it.

How do I get my cat to actually go into the carrier?

Carrier aversion is almost always because the carrier only appears when something bad is about to happen (vet visit, car ride, boarding). Break this association: leave the carrier out permanently in a room your cat frequents. Put a familiar blanket, catnip, and treats inside. Feed meals near it, then in it with the door open. Over weeks, your cat learns the carrier is just another cat bed, not a vehicle to doom. When it’s time for a trip, put your cat’s favorite high-value treat (tuna, Churu, freeze-dried chicken) inside and let them enter voluntarily. For cats who still resist, a top-loading carrier where you can lower them in gently is far less stressful than forcing them through a front door.

What’s the difference between in-cabin and cargo airline approval?

In-cabin means the carrier fits under the seat in front of you and your cat travels in the passenger cabin. The carrier must be soft-sided, typically within 18" x 11" x 11" (dimensions vary by airline), and your cat stays with you the entire flight. Cargo means the carrier travels in the pressurized, temperature-controlled cargo hold. Cargo carriers must be hard-sided plastic with metal hardware (nuts and bolts, not plastic clips), ventilation on all four sides, and specific labeling. Cargo travel is more stressful for cats and is generally only used for large cats, international moves, or when the airline doesn’t allow in-cabin pets. Always choose in-cabin if possible.

Can I use the same carrier for the car and the plane?

Yes, if it’s an airline-approved soft-sided carrier like the Sherpa Original Deluxe, Mr. Peanut’s Backpack, or PetAmi Deluxe. For car use, thread the seatbelt through the carrier’s handle or use a designated seatbelt loop to secure it. However, soft-sided carriers offer less crash protection than hard-sided carriers. If you drive frequently with your cat, consider keeping a dedicated hard carrier in the car (Petmate Two-Door or SportPet) and using a separate soft-sided carrier for air travel. Hard carriers provide significantly better protection in a vehicle collision.

How do I clean a carrier after an accident?

For hard-sided carriers: remove bedding, rinse the carrier with water, scrub with soap or enzymatic cleaner, rinse again, spray with a pet-safe disinfectant, and let it dry fully in the sun (UV helps eliminate odors). The entire process takes 5 minutes. For soft-sided carriers: remove the bottom pad and wash in the machine. If the carrier body has been soiled, hand-wash with enzymatic cleaner (Nature’s Miracle or similar), scrub mesh panels gently, rinse thoroughly, and air-dry completely — never put a soft carrier in the dryer as the heat warps frames and melts mesh. For serious messes, some soft carriers with rigid frames can be partially disassembled for deeper cleaning.

Are clear plastic bubble backpacks good for cats?

The trendy clear bubble backpacks seen on social media are generally not recommended by veterinarians. The clear plastic bubble creates a greenhouse effect — the interior heats up rapidly, even in moderate sun. The single small ventilation hole on most bubble backpacks is inadequate for proper airflow. The exposure makes cats feel vulnerable — they can’t hide, and they see everything around them without any sense of security. If you love the backpack style, choose a mesh-sided backpack like the Mr. Peanut’s that provides 360-degree ventilation and privacy covers. Your cat’s safety and comfort matter more than Instagram aesthetics.

The Bottom Line

For most cat owners — especially those who fly — the Sherpa Original Deluxe is the best overall carrier. It’s the most consistently airline-accepted soft-sided carrier, the dual-entry design reduces loading stress, and the flexible frame fits under virtually any airline seat. It’s the carrier you buy when you want one that handles everything without drama.

For car-centric households, the Petmate Two-Door Top Load is the hard-sided champion. The top-loading door makes loading easier than any front-only hard carrier, and the rugged plastic shell provides the best crash protection on the road. Every cat household should have at least one hard carrier for car travel, and this is the one to get.

For cat owners navigating airports, city streets, or public transit on foot, the Mr. Peanut’s Backpack Carrier is transformative. Hands-free carrying, expandable lounge space, and 360-degree mesh make it the only carrier your cat might actually enjoy riding in. Test the backpack motion with your cat before committing — but if they tolerate it, you’ll never go back to a one-arm carrier.

For elderly owners or anyone who struggles with heavy lifting, the Necoichi Portable Ultra Light is a genuine quality-of-life upgrade. At under 2 pounds, it makes carrier transport so effortless that vet visits feel less like a chore and more like a casual errand.

For budget-conscious buyers, the SportPet Designs Plastic Kennel covers all the cargo and car safety basics at an unbeatable price. And for owners who want the premium soft-sided experience with every bell and whistle included, the PetAmi Deluxe justifies its higher price with water-resistant materials, a plush sherpa interior, and a full accessory kit.

Remember: a carrier is only as good as your cat’s willingness to enter it. Leave the carrier out at home. Make it a place of treats and comfort, not fear. A cat who sees their carrier as a safe den — not a torture box — is a cat who travels with less stress for everyone involved.

Disclosure: We may earn a commission if you purchase through links on this page — at no extra cost to you. This does not influence our recommendations.