Our top choice among the hard-sided options we tested is the Petmate Two-Door Top-Load Pet Kennel, which has a traditional front door plus a top-loading door, both with gates that securely shut with a dual-spring-loaded latch. The best cat carrier for most is one with a rigid design because it provides a cat with a defined interior space. Both carriers have multiple points of access, with doors on the front and top. We also found several carriers that have the ability to limit outside distractions, which can calm a nervous cat.Īfter hundreds of hours of combined testing, our favorite cat carriers are the Petmate Two-Door Top-Load Pet Kennel-which is about as lightweight and well-ventilated as hard-sided carriers get-and the soft-sided Petseek Cat Carrier, which has a strong, steel frame structure, but can still fold up for storage. Features like an entry door on top of the carrier can make it easier to get your cat safely inside, plus it's preferred by most veterinarians, who are more easily able to access your pet for care. The right carrier for you and your cat will depend on your travel needs-by foot, by car, or by plane-the size of your cat, and your budget. All of our recommendations provide great airflow and a secure environment. With the help of real cats (and kittens!) we tested 30 pet carriers-including hard-sided and soft-sided kennels, bags, totes, and backpacks-then selected 12 top performers.
