Cat Kind of Cat Carrier Should I Buy?

Cat parents should have a cat carrier for each one of their kitties. These carriers are designed to help you get your cat from point A to point B safely and securely. Whether you are a person who loves to travel with their cat or you need a way to take them to the vet or other places, you need to get a carrier for your cat that suits them. For pet parents with more than one cat, having separate carriers for each kitty gives them their own space to feel comfortable in. 

If you’re looking to purchase a new cat carrier, it helps to know: Why are they so important, and what kind should you get? 

Why are Cat Carriers So Important? 

The main reason that cat carriers are so important is that they help keep your cat safe. If you need to take your cat somewhere, they are likely to run off unless you have a secure place to keep them. 

They are useful in several types of situations, including: 

• Taking Your Cat to The Vet - Your pet cat has to go to the veterinarian/vet clinic at least once a year, if not more, to get the care they need. Carriers can help you get your cat to and from the vet but also help contain your pet while your vet completes their evaluation or procedure. They are especially important after surgical procedures like spaying/neutering your cat to help keep them still.  

• Traveling - If you like to travel and you want to take your cat with you, then you’ll need a carrier. Most airlines require that you have your cat contained in a carrier that meets their size requirements. 

• Car Safety - If your cat is going in the car, they can’t exactly buck their seatbelts. Carriers can keep your cat safe during rides. 

• Emergencies - Sometimes, you need to quickly leave the house due to an emergency like severe weather. Carriers give you a way to take your cat with you quickly and comfortably. 

• Comfort - Traveling or leaving the house can be stressful for your kitty. Carriers can help your cats feel safer as they are carried to different environments and have new experiences. 

While the carrier might not be your kitty’s favourite place, they are important to their safety and wellbeing whenever they need to leave the house. 

What Kinds of Cat Carriers are There? 

• Hard-Sided/Plastic Carriers - If you and your feline travel frequently by car, go with a sturdy hard-sided crate. (Don’t forget to stabilize the crate with a seat belt when you’re driving.) Back home, the hard-sided carrier can double as a cozy indoor den for your cat. Make it more comfortable by lining it with a washable pad or cat bed.

• Soft-Sided Carriers - If you are traveling by air, choose a carrier made of durable fabric or flexible material that can be stowed at your feet in the main cabin. Be sure the carrier allows adequate space for your cat to stand up, move around a bit and lie down.

• Cardboard Carrier - If you’re only going a short distance (say to the vet’s office), an inexpensive carrier may be all you need. Just be sure it’s made especially to transport pets, includes air holes, and can handle your cat’s weight.

• Backpack Carrier - Want to take your cat with you outside and around town? There are backpack cat carriers that allow you to comfortably carry them around while giving them a view of their surroundings. 

What Size Should I Get? 

Many think that cat carriers should be big to give their cats lots of room to roam around and be comfortable. This is actually not the best option for your pet. A cat carrier should be no more than 1 1/2 times the size of your cat. This will offer enough room for your pet to lie down flat, stand up and turn around. If the cat carrier is too big, then the cat will rattle around and not be safe during car rides. 

Start by measuring the height and length of your cat and look at the dimensions of a cat carrier before you buy it. This way, you know if it will be the right size for them.

What Should I Put In Their Carrier? 

You should not put too many things in your cat’s carrier. Do not put any food, water, or litter in their carrier. This might make them have to use the bathroom during their trip. Try to wait to leave until after your cat has used the bathroom. If you are going on a long car trip, prepare to make stops to allow your cat to use the bathroom in a disposable litter box. 

Pet parents should feel free to line the bottom of the carrier with something comfortable for the cat to lay on as well as a couple of their toys that smell like home.  

Overall, cat carriers are incredibly important to your cat’s safety, and you should get one if you do not have one already, along with any other cat supplies you need for them. 

Information in this article is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure your pet and is not a substitute for veterinary care provided by a licensed veterinarian. For any medical or health-related advice concerning the care and treatment of your pet, contact your veterinarian.