1. Home
  2. Cat
  3. General

The Best Cat Carriers for Transporting Your Feline Friend

Kristen Arendt
By Kristen Arendt
Updated
May 8, 2025
best cat carriers

Photo by Chewy Studios

Whether you’re driving your cat to a vet visit or planning air travel with your adventure kitty for your next vacation, the best cat carrier will ensure they have a safe, cozy space for their trip. From hard-sided crates to collapsible pet carriers and even cat backpacks, we’ve rounded up the best-selling and top-rated cat travel carriers. Tried, tested and reviewed by Chewy cat parents, these feline favorites are designed to make pet travel safer and more enjoyable for you both.

Best Overall Cat Carrier

Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Dog & Cat Carrier Bag, Black, Medium

Shop item ($47.99)Read More

Best Hard-Sided Cat Kennel

Petmate Two Door Top Load Dog & Cat Kennel, Blue, 24 inches, up to 15-lbs

Shop item ($44.45)Read More

Best Cat Carrier Bag

Frisco Premium Travel Bag Dog & Cat Carrier, Black, Medium

Deal
Shop item ($42.99)Read More

Best Backpack For Cats

Jespet Dog & Cat Carrier Backpack, Smoke Grey, 17-in

Shop item ($49.99)Read More

Best Large Cat Carrier

Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Dog & Cat Carrier Bag, Black, Large

Shop item ($58.39)Read More

Best Top Load Cat Carrier

Frisco Two Door Top Load Plastic Dog & Cat Kennel, Blue, 24-in

Shop item ($44.99)Read More

Best Collapsible Cat Carrier

Necoichi Ultra Light Collapsible Cat Carrier Bag

Shop item ($19.84)Read More

Best Rolling Cat Carrier

Pet Gear I-GO2 Traveler Dog & Cat Backpack & Rolling Carrier, Black

Shop item ($56.99)Read More

Best Expandable Cat Carrier

Petmate See & Extend Dog & Cat Carrier Bag

Shop item ($56.99)Read More

Best Cat Carrier for Car Travel

Pet Gear Signature Dog & Cat Car Seat & Carrier Bag, Aqua

Shop item ($30.89)Read More

Best Budget Cat Carrier

Frisco Basic Dog & Cat Carrier Bag, Black, Teal Trim, Medium/Large

Deal
Shop item ($24.99)Read More

Best Overall Cat Carrier


Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Dog & Cat Carrier Bag, Black, Medium slide 1 of 9
Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Dog & Cat Carrier Bag, Black, Medium
Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars
4.7
1.5KReviews
$47.99Chewy Price
$143.99List Price

Perfect for all kinds of travel, this top-rated bag for cats is airline-approved by most major airlines. Chewy pet parents love that it’s sturdy enough to contain anxious travelers while still being roomy enough for their cats to be comfy when traveling long distances.

Best Hard-Sided Cat Kennel


Petmate Two Door Top Load Dog & Cat Kennel, Blue, 24 inches, up to 15-lbs slide 1 of 5
Petmate Two Door Top Load Dog & Cat Kennel, Blue, 24 inches, up to 15-lbs
Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars
4.7
1.9KReviews
$44.45Chewy Price
$80.99List Price

A great hard-sided carrier, this durable cat kennel has two doors, including a top-loading option for easy access. Although ideal for traveling, plastic carriers like this one also make a sturdy, quiet spot for your cat to relax at home.

Best Cat Carrier Bag


Frisco Premium Travel Bag Dog & Cat Carrier, Black, Medium slide 1 of 7
Deal
Frisco Premium Travel Bag Dog & Cat Carrier, Black, Medium
Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars
4.6
529Reviews
$42.99Chewy Price

For a soft-sided cat carrier, this bag for cats has breathable mesh sides and a cushy fleece floor for maximum comfort. And, if you’re flying the friendly skies and need an airline-approved pet carrier, the soft sides help this bag fit under the seat in front of you.

Best Backpack For Cats


Jespet Dog & Cat Carrier Backpack, Smoke Grey, 17-in slide 1 of 5
Jespet Dog & Cat Carrier Backpack, Smoke Grey, 17-in
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars
4.5
161Reviews
$49.99Chewy Price
$59.99List Price

Make your life easier when traveling with your cat with this easy-to-transport cat backpack. The padded shoulder straps, side pockets and large mesh panels make this a convenient pack for both you and your cat.

Best Large Cat Carrier


Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Dog & Cat Carrier Bag, Black, Large slide 1 of 9
Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Dog & Cat Carrier Bag, Black, Large
Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars
4.7
1.5KReviews
$58.39Chewy Price
$94.99List Price

Able to fit pets up to 22 pounds, this airline-approved large cat carrier has enough space for big cats to comfortably lie down. The top and side doors with locking zippers and an adjustable shoulder strap make it easy to load and tote your cat around.

Best Top Load Cat Carrier


Frisco Two Door Top Load Plastic Dog & Cat Kennel, Blue, 24-in slide 1 of 7
Frisco Two Door Top Load Plastic Dog & Cat Kennel, Blue, 24-in
Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars
4.6
1.8KReviews
$44.99Chewy Price

For cats who are anxious about getting in their carrier, a top-load door like the one on this hard plastic cat carrier makes it easier to safely load them. And the hard sides won’t collapse if they get a little fidgety in their travel carrier.

Best Collapsible Cat Carrier


Necoichi Ultra Light Collapsible Cat Carrier Bag slide 1 of 8
Necoichi Ultra Light Collapsible Cat Carrier Bag
Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars
4.6
275Reviews
$19.84Chewy Price
$28.99List Price

If you’re short on space, this stylish collapsible cat carrier is made for easy storage. Chewy pet owners love that even though it’s lightweight and foldable, it’s still very sturdy. And your curious cat will love the mesh window that lets them peek out.

Best Rolling Cat Carrier


Pet Gear I-GO2 Traveler Dog & Cat Backpack & Rolling Carrier, Black slide 1 of 9
Pet Gear I-GO2 Traveler Dog & Cat Backpack & Rolling Carrier, Black
Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars
4.3
243Reviews
$56.99Chewy Price
$68.99List Price

This cat carrier with wheels has a telescoping handle that makes it easy to rock ‘n’ roll with your furry friend in tow. Designed for cats up to 15 lbs, it also can be used as a car seat, backpack or tote for even more ways to safely transport your cat.

Best Expandable Cat Carrier


Petmate See & Extend Dog & Cat Carrier Bag slide 1 of 8
Petmate See & Extend Dog & Cat Carrier Bag
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars
4.5
67Reviews
$56.99Chewy Price
$99.99List Price

Give your cat a little extra space to snooze with this expandable cat carrier—they’ll love lounging in the zip-out mesh extension. It also has an interior tether for your cat’s harness and exterior seatbelt straps for in-car safety.

Best Cat Carrier for Car Travel


Pet Gear Signature Dog & Cat Car Seat & Carrier Bag, Aqua slide 1 of 5
Pet Gear Signature Dog & Cat Car Seat & Carrier Bag, Aqua
Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars
4.6
923Reviews
$30.89Chewy Price
$48.99List Price

This 2-in-1 car seat and cat travel carrier is perfect for car rides with your feline friend. Buckle it into your car’s seat belt for an extra safe ride. The large mesh windows ensure your cat gets plenty of airflow.

Best Budget Cat Carrier


Frisco Basic Dog & Cat Carrier Bag, Black, Teal Trim, Medium/Large slide 1 of 8
Deal
Frisco Basic Dog & Cat Carrier Bag, Black, Teal Trim, Medium/Large
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars
4.5
1KReviews
$24.99Chewy Price

If you need a basic cat carrier, this semi-collapsible bag is a great budget-friendly option for the occasional car ride. It has a roomy interior with plenty of airflow and a removable, machine-washable fleece pet bed for added comfort.

Now that you’ve picked out the best cat carrier to keep your fur baby secure and comfortable during their travels, get tips for keeping them safe while on the road—or wherever your journey takes you.

Attributions


Kristen Arendt

Kristen Arendt

Kristen is a writer, editor and lover of the great outdoors. In addition to running, hiking, backpacking, biking and skiing, she enjoys
Related articles
  • Catch That Mouse! How To Pick a Barn Cat
    Catch That Mouse! How To Pick a Barn Cat

  • What Is a Tabby Cat, Anyway?
    What Is a Tabby Cat, Anyway?

  • Black Cat Facts: 11 Things to Know About Your Furry Friend 
    Black Cat Facts: 11 Things to Know About Your Furry Friend 

  • 12 Over-The-Top Catios Every Cat Dreams Of
    12 Over-The-Top Catios Every Cat Dreams Of
Skip to searchSkip to main content
Not in the U.S?

Not shopping in the U.S. or plan on shipping to a Canadian address?

Continue to Canada site
Use App
24/7 HelpHelp
Get help from our experts 24/7
1-800-672-4399
    • Track Order
    • -
    • FAQs
    • -
    • Contact Info
    AccountAccount
    Sign InNew Customer? Start here
    • Account
    • Orders
    • Manage Autoship
    • Favorites
    • Buy Again
    • Prescriptions
    • Pet Portal
    • Connect with a Vet
    • Pet Insurance Dashboard
    • My Rescues
    • Create a Pet Profile
    CartCart
    Your cart is empty.
    Something missing? Sign in to see items you may have added from another computer or device.
    Not in the U.S?

    Not shopping in the U.S. or plan on shipping to a Canadian address?

    Continue to Canada site
    Use App
    24/7 Help
    Get help from our experts 24/7
    1-800-672-4399
      • Track Order
      • -
      • FAQs
      • -
      • Contact Info
      AccountAccount
      Sign InNew Customer? Start here
      • Account
      • Orders
      • Manage Autoship
      • Favorites
      • Buy Again
      • Prescriptions
      • Pet Portal
      • Connect with a Vet
      • Pet Insurance Dashboard
      • My Rescues
      • Create a Pet Profile
      CartCart
      Your cart is empty.
      Something missing? Sign in to see items you may have added from another computer or device.
      Food
      • Dry Food
      • Wet Food
      • Fresh Food & Toppers
      • Veterinary Diets
      • Shop by Health Condition
      • Puppy Food
      Treats
      • Bones, Bully Sticks & Naturals
      • Soft & Chewy Treats
      • Dental Treats
      • Biscuits & Cookies
      • Long-Lasting Chews
      • Jerky Treats
      • Freeze-Dried & Dehydrated
      Toys
      • Plush Toys
      • Chew Toys
      • Fetch Toys
      • Treat Dispensing Toys
      • Puzzle Toys
      • Rope & Tug Toys
      Supplies
      • Crates, Pens & Gates
      • Beds
      • Leashes, Collars & Harnesses
      • Bowls & Feeders
      • Clothing & Accessories
      • Carriers & Travel
      • Training & Behavior
      • Dog Tech & Smart Home
      Dog DealsNew Dog SuppliesPet Parent SuppliesShop all Dog
      Grooming
      • Brushes & Combs
      • Shampoos & Conditioners
      • Grooming Tools
      • Paw & Nail Care
      • Ear Care
      • Skin Care
      Cleaning & Potty
      • Pee Pads & Diapers
      • Poop Bags & Scoopers
      • Cleaners & Stain Removers
      • Vacuums & Steam Cleaners
      Health & Pharmacy
      • Flea & Tick
      • Allergy & Itch Relief
      • Vitamins & Supplements
      • Heartworm & Dewormers
      • Pharmacy & Prescriptions
      • DNA Testing Kits
      • First Aid & Recovery
      Gift Cards
      Popular Brands
      Purina Pro Plan
      Hill's
      Blue Buffalo
      Frisco
      Royal Canin
      Bark
      Power your dog's health. Redbarn has up to 96% beef or chicken.
      Food
      • Wet Food
      • Dry Food
      • Everyday Favorites
      • Shop by Health Consideration
      • Veterinary Diets
      • Highest Quality Food
      • Food Toppers
      Litter
      • Clumping
      • Scented
      • Unscented
      • Natural
      • Lightweight
      Treats
      • Crunchy Treats
      • Lickable Treats
      • Soft & Chewy Treats
      • Dental Treats
      • Catnip & Cat Grass
      Toys
      • Interactive & Electronic Toys
      • Teasers & Wands
      • Balls & Chasers
      • Catnip Toys
      • Plush & Mice Toys
      Cat DealsPet Parent SuppliesShop all Cat
      Supplies
      • Litter Boxes & Accessories
      • Cat Tech & Smart Home
      • Beds
      • Carriers & Travel
      • Bowls & Feeders
      • Collars, Leashes & Harnesses
      • Grooming
      Trees & Scratchers
      • Trees & Condos
      • Scratchers & Scratching Posts
      • Wall Shelves
      • Window Perches
      Health & Pharmacy
      • Flea & Tick
      • Allergy & Itch Relief
      • Vitamins & Supplements
      • Urinary Tract & Kidneys
      • Pharmacy & Prescriptions
      • Test Kits
      • First Aid & Recovery
      Gift Cards
      Popular Brands
      Tiny Tiger
      Shop Blue Buffalo
      Shop litter robot
      Shop Temptations
      Shop Hill's Science Diet
      Shop Purina Pro Plan
      Enrich their meal experience with delicious meal complements from Sheba. Shop now.
      Horse
      • Feed
      • Treats
      • Health & Wellness
      • Vitamins & Supplements
      • Fly Control
      • Prescription Medications
      • Vaccines
      Chicken
      • Feed
      • Treats
      • Nesting & Egg Supplies
      • Coops & Runs
      • Feeders, Waterers & Deicers
      Farm Animal
      • Cattle
      • Goat
      • Pig
      • Sheep
      • Llama & Alpaca
      Wild Bird & Wildlife
      • Wild Bird
      • Squirrel & Critter
      • Duck & Waterfowl
      • Deer
      Small Pet
      • Rabbit
      • Guinea Pig
      • Hamster
      • Ferret
      Pet Bird
      • Food
      • Treats
      • Toys & Perches
      • Litter & Nesting
      • Cages & Accessories
      Fish
      • Tanks & Aquariums
      • Food
      • Filters & Media
      • Decor & Substrate
      • Water Care
      Reptile & Amphibian
      • Live Feed
      • Food & Treats
      • Tanks & Terrariums
      • Heating & Lighting
      • Substrate & Bedding
      Gift Cards
      Popular Brands
      Shop Buckeye
      Shop Animed
      Shop Cosequin
      Chewy Chick Days deals. Save on feed & supplies for every life stage. Shop now.
      Prescriptions
      Order your pet's prescription items.
      How it works
      Shop all Pharmacy
      Health Services
      Chewy Vet Care
      Chat free with our vet team
      CarePlus Insurance & Wellness Plans
      Compounded Medications
      Choose from a variety of flavors, strengths, and forms for your pet or horse.
      Learn about compounding
      Dog
      • Flea & Tick
      • Heartworm
      • Pain Relief & Arthritis
      • Antibiotics
      • Allergy Relief
      • Anxiety & Calming
      • Ear & Eye Care
      • Diabetes Care & Insulin
      Cat
      • Flea & Tick
      • Dewormers & Parasiticides
      • Ear & Eye Care
      • Antibiotics
      • Allergy Relief
      • Urinary Tract & Kidneys
      • Pain Relief & Arthritis
      • Diabetes Care & Insulin
      Horse
      • Anti-inflammatory & Musculoskeletal
      • Vitamins & Electrolytes
      • Skin & Coat Care
      • Antibiotics
      • Metabolic & Endocrine
      • Allergy & Immune
      • Behavioral Support & Sedatives
      • Reproductive Care
      Expert Health Tips
      • PetMD
      Connect with a Vet
      Free chat or live-video advice from our licensed veterinary team.
      Learn more
      CarePlus Insurance & Wellness Plans
      Give your pet the best possible health coverage with wellness and insurance plans.
      Learn more
      Chewy Vet Care
      Exceptional in-person routine and urgent care from our compassionate veterinary teams.
      Schedule a visit
      Learn
      How We Give Back
      We've donated more than $100M in products to rescue animal centers.
      Learn more
      Donate to a Rescue
      You can help us make an impact by donating items to your local shelter.
      Find a Rescue
      Find Pets to Adopt
      Search thousands of pets from shelters and rescues in Chewy's network.
      Find Pets
      Join Our Network
      Join our network to access benefits and resources that’ll help more pets.
      Join Now
      Today's Deals
      • Our experts are available 24/7:We're here 24/7:
      • 1-800-672-4399
      • United States
      • About
      • Investor Relations
      • Affiliates
      • Jobs
      • FAQs
      • Learn
      • Give Back
      • Gift Cards
      • Sell on Chewy
      Download iOS appDownload Android app
      Go to ACHC pharmacy accreditationLegitscript ApprovedCompounding Pharmacy Approved
      • Copyright © 2025, Chewy, Inc.
      • Terms of Use
      • Privacy Policy (Updated Oct 8, 2024)
      • Interest-Based Ads
      • Accessibility
      • California Supply Chains Act
      • Vendor Compliance
      Download phone image
      Get the Chewy app
      Download iOS appDownload Android app
      We're here 24/7
      1-800-672-4399
      United States
      Copyright © 2025 Chewy, Inc.
      Terms-Privacy (Updated Oct 8, 2024)-Accessibility
      California Supply Chains Act-Vendor Compliance
      About-Investor Relations-Jobs-Learn
      Give Back-Gift Cards-Sell on Chewy