When you were lugging around books in your backpack growing up, you probably didn’t imagine having a cat in there one day. But when it comes to transporting your whiskered friend to the vet, groomer, or a cat cafe, pet backpacks can be an effective and safe alternative to kennels and crates.
There are several considerations owners should take into account when shopping for the ideal carrier for their kitty, including comfort, ventilation, and, of course, style. After scouring the web, here are the best-reviewed cat backpacks we could find.
When it comes to cat backpacks, ventilation is a must. We want our fur babies to be able to breathe, after all. Available for $24 on Amazon, reviewers of this carrier by Texsens note that the mesh material allows for good airflow as well as visibility. Despite being lightweight, customers noted that it’s surprisingly sturdy and evenly distributes weight for their feline friends. It comes in five colors with two upgraded versions in pink and black. Some people did point out that the side zippers close at the bottom of the bag, making it difficult to access them when the cat is inside.
You’ve probably seen “astronaut backpacks” while out and about, which are aptly named for their spaceship-esque bubbles in the front. This carrier by PETKIT takes this futuristic design to new heights with a built-in fan to keep your kitty cool while transporting them in the hot summer months, as well as an LED light to check in on them when it’s dark. It also has air vents on the sides and in the bubble to ensure breathability.
At $69.99 on Amazon, it’s not exactly cheap, and reviewers were disappointed that the steep price doesn’t include a power bank for the fan. That said, customers liked that the detachable parts make it easy to clean.
Who says you have to leave your cat at home when you explore the great outdoors? This lightweight, breathable backpack from Petsfit was made for hikers looking to bring their favorite felines with them on a romp in the woods. Priced reasonably at just under $59 on Amazon, this backpack carrier features adjustable shoulder and waist straps, ample ventilation, a built-in leash, and a cozy interior so both you and your pet can enjoy the journey.
Customers appreciate the sturdy design, but report that it can feel bulky during extended use. It also lacks space for hiking essentials like water or snacks, and may not be roomy enough for kitties over 18 pounds.
Flying with pets can be incredibly stressful for owners and their furry friends. This expandable carrier from Lekereise can make for a cozy flight once your plane takes off. Available for $43.99 on Amazon, the bag easily converts into a backpack, a “frontpack,” or a traditional kennel. When not in use, owners can collapse it flat for easy storage. Perhaps the biggest selling point of this carrier is the front mesh compartment: it can expand a full foot outwards to give your cat more space.
Reviewers love all the compartments for additional supplies and praised the overall durability. Some say that the handle is small, making it difficult to hold when you’re not using it as a backpack.
While ample space in a backpack is definitely good for larger cats, small ones are fine with less room to move around. If your cat is under 10 pounds, you may opt for this $37.99 carrier from Henkelion, which is easier to carry than some bulkier bags on the market. Reviewers like that the bag is simple to clean and that the bubble lets their cat look around — though some say it can get scuffed up. So long as your whiskered pal isn’t too big, it will be a nice and cozy safe space for them on the go.
No cat backpack is perfect for every single cat out there. Different cats have different needs. Here are the key factors owners should keep in mind when browsing for the best cat backpack for their individual kitty:
A top-quality carrier, whether soft or hard-sided, is a must for safe cat flying — and generally a safe, secure place for the discriminating cat once they are ‘trained’ to feel comfortable. Having all their little necessities and accoutrements readily available are most helpful and can reduce the ‘stress’ of flying and sitting in airports for the pet and the caretaker or human companion. Still, they have to become accustomed to the carrier before any travel stress is brought upon them.
Dr. Bruce Armstrong
You’ve seen pet kennels, and you’ve seen pet backpacks. So why does one prefer the latter to the former? It’s simple: backpacks are just easier for on-the-go pet parents to carry. They’re designed to distribute weight evenly, all while keeping your hands free for other things. Either device is considered safe for cats so long as there’s room for them to stand, stretch, and turn in a circle.
If you think using a cat backpack is as simple as putting your cat inside and hitting the road, guess again. Cats are famously tentative when introduced to new things, whether it’s a toy, a “people food,” or an entirely new environment. Backpacks are no different.
Here are some tips for getting your favorite feline used to their new backpack carrier:
If you take your cat hiking, you’ll want to use a cat backpack with good ventilation, weather-resistant, and doesn’t trap too much heat. We recommend the Petsfit Pet Backpack Carrier for its sturdiness and outdoor-friendly features.
Cats should have enough room in their backpack to stand, stretch, and move in a circle. There should also be sufficient padding or bedding to keep them cozy, as well as air vents.
Absolutely. Backpack-style carriers are actually more secure than handheld carriers. Just make sure you get the right one for your individual kitty.
Our vets recommend that adult cats should spend no more than one to two hours in their carrier at a time. If you’re on a long trip, plan to take breaks every hour or so. Keep in mind that kittens may need to come out more often so they can drink and relieve themselves.
