Hard-sided carriers are sturdier and easier to clean, so they may be a better fit if your cat gets aggressive, suffers from motion sickness, or is prone to having accidents when nervous. “You can’t do better than that.” So we spoke to McKeon and nine other veterinarians, cat behavioral experts, and passionate cat owners about the carriers they recommend, to help you narrow down the crowded field.Ĭarriers can either be soft sided - made from flexible materials like nylon, polyester, or microfiber - or hard sided with a rigid, durable shell. “If you can find a carrier that your cat is not terrified of, that’s it: That’s the gold standard,” says Kerrie McKeon, resident cat expert at the animal-welfare and adoption organization Bideawee.
There are tons of carrier designs on the market, but the best option is always the one that feels cozy, comfortable, and peaceful for your cat. Not only do you have to worry about your pet getting stressed, but you want them to be as safe as possible - while also following airplane regulations, if you’re flying. Wrangling a nervous animal into a pet carrier can often be a bit of a nightmare. Cat owners know how difficult it can be to travel just about anywhere with their feline friend.
