Cat carrier. Which cat carrier is best?

Which cat carrier is best for you? To do this, answer three main questions: How often will you need to transport your pet? What distances? By what transport?

It’s worth mentioning right away that for close distances (to the veterinarian) you can choose from fabric, soft carriers. For long distances, it is better to choose one of the plastic or metal cat carriers. Of course, consider the size of your pet. The carrier should be spacious enough for the cat to turn around and wash itself in it. And the longer the trip, the more spacious the carrying should be. Also consider the carrier's requirements - for example, most airlines will only accept plastic carriers with a metal door.

Rating of cat carriers

When choosing a carrier for a cat, owners take care of their convenience and wallet, as well as the comfort of their pet. I would like the pet to be moved not to be afraid or experience any unpleasant sensations. Especially during long trips or flights.

The VyborExpert.ru team compared 30 models available in pet stores and identified the best. The rating is based on several criteria:

• Type of product;
• Options;
• Design;
• Material;
• Reliability and comfort.

The main principle in compiling the TOP list was the humane treatment of animals. Some applicants for inclusion in the rating were rightly rejected due to unsafety. The outsiders were cramped carriers with a chemical smell and poor air exchange.

Reliable models, comfortable and made from environmentally friendly materials, have emerged as leaders.

So, summary

Ring sling

more convenient for carrying a child in the cradle position and more suitable for putting the child to sleep. It is possible to carry a child vertically in the SSC, but it is less convenient.

Sling scarf

Suitable for carrying a child both in a cradle and vertically, but less convenient for children constantly asking to be held or asking to run.

Ergonomic backpack

Suitable for carrying a baby vertically, but less convenient for children constantly asking to be held or asking to run.

Hipsit

Suitable for carrying a baby vertically, and most convenient for older children who are constantly asking to be held or asking to run.

Kangaroo

not suitable for carrying children.

Still unsure which carrier is good for carrying your baby and which is harmful? Then look at what the International Hip Implant Institute has to say about these carriers.

The Best Folding Carriers for Cats

Foldable carrying bags are compact. After use, they are quickly folded and stored in a closet or pantry. To determine the winners, an analysis of 8 accessories from different brands was carried out. The rating included 3 nominees with an optimal price/quality ratio.

Ibiyaya Vfc1752l-BG

Designed to carry cats no heavier than 8 kg. Equipped with a wide shoulder strap. The animal is placed inside through an opening at the top. There is also a zipper on the front. The sewn-in frame does not allow the carrying bag to sag under the weight of the animal. Size: 42*30*32 cm, weight: 1400 g.

Advantages:

• Ventilation through mesh material;
• Side pockets for small items and care products;
• Safety rope;
• Internal soft lining;
• Suitable for washing in warm water;
• Sporty design.

Flaws:

• Limited interior space.

There is a transparent window on the front part. Thanks to the opening view, the cat feels confident and calm, and does not try to jump out.

Teremok DO-1

Compact, can withstand loads of up to 3 kg. Suitable for small dogs, cats, rabbits, chinchillas, ferrets. Made from nylon and flock. The folding top and bottom are reinforced with plywood. Easy to fold thanks to side zippers. Does not require maintenance. The instructions indicate that the product must be washed in soapy water at a temperature not exceeding 30°C. Weight: 640 g.

Advantages:

• Plastic mesh in the front;
• Easy to clean;
• Suitable for air transport;
• Keeps its shape;
• Reliable zippers;
• High-quality tailoring, even seams, no protruding threads.

Flaws:

• The inside of the bag is lined with a material to which wool sticks;
• The length of the handles is not adjustable.

According to customer reviews, the cat carrier bag Teremok DO-1 is soft, lightweight and easy to use. It features an unusual ornament. A bit cramped for large individuals. They will have to travel lying down. Suitable for short trips, no longer than 2-3 hours. The listed inconveniences are compensated by a favorable price - up to 1,500 rubles.

Triol Santorini plane

Designed specifically for air travel. The design is appropriate - the body of the product is decorated with images of airplanes. Made from polyester. Has good air exchange thanks to built-in ventilation meshes. Suitable for cats weighing up to 6 kg.

Advantages:

• There is a leash on a carabiner inside to secure the animal;
• Equipped with a special zipper fastener;
• Fastens with a seat belt inside the car;
• Warm plush bedding;
• Can be transported on the shoulder or in the hand;
• Spacious side zip pocket.

Flaws:

• The pet will not be able to fully straighten up inside;
• During long-term storage, the clasp comes off.

The cat carrier on the plane complies with international air travel standards. On the back wall there is a form for placing the owner's business card in case of lost luggage. Attaches to suitcase. The dimensions and design allow it to be placed under the seat in front. There it must be located in accordance with flight rules.

The Best Plastic Carriers for Cats

Plastic models are durable and easy to clean, do not absorb moisture, and are well ventilated. Among 9 nominees, the 3 best carriers were included in the rating, with which both animals and owners were satisfied.

Homepet

The rectangular clipper carrier is designed for moving cats and small dogs. Equipped with strong locks and latches. The dimensions of the product allow a pet weighing 6-7 kg to comfortably sit inside. Carrying weight: 1 kg. Easy to clean with soapy water.

Advantages:

• Resistant to damage, made of high quality plastic;
• Air exchange mesh;
• Available in different colors - lilac, blue, green;
• Sturdy door;
• Ergonomic handle, holes for attaching a belt;
• Stable when transported in public transport or by car.

Flaws:

• When making a purchase online, you will have to assemble the structure;
• Cumbersome to store.

Animals travel quietly inside a cozy house or use it as a sleeping place. Dimensions allow you to sit in any position. It is enough to lay a soft mattress or rug on the bottom.

Georplast Rhino

This comfortable clipper carrier, made in Italy, made of high-quality plastic, is designed for medium-sized cats. The walls of the product are thin but durable. The door opens upward. Made in a laconic, restrained style. Weight: 1.19 kg. You will have to pay up to 2000 rubles for Georplast Rhino.

Advantages:

• Thanks to the transparent door, the animal has a good view;
• Resistance to damage and deformation;
• Possibility to accommodate two small cats;
• Constant flow of fresh air.

Flaws:

• There are no cutouts for securing with a seat belt in a car;
• A large cat will be able to open the door on its own.

Quite bulky. It is better to store it unassembled. The product features an intuitive assembly that anyone can handle. The perimeter of the case is equipped with grilles through which air circulates. Therefore, it is recommended to use it in warm weather.

Moderna Road Runner I Spring Lock

Stylish plastic, ideal for air travel. Equipped with a door with a metal grill and a lock. Suitable for small animals. The model is presented in 4 colors - gray, pink, blue, yellow. Weight: 910 g. Country of origin: Belgium.

Advantages:

• Ventilation holes on the sides;
• Beautiful, unusual design;
• Easy to care for, does not absorb unpleasant odors;
• The kit includes assembly instructions in Russian;
• Strong locks to secure the top cover;
• An animal weighing up to 5 kg can easily stand and turn around inside.

Flaws:

• Tight for a large cat.

Thanks to the ability to see the surrounding space, the Moderna Road Runner I Spring Lock carrier allows your pet to travel comfortably and not feel nervous. An additional advantage is the ability to wash without disassembling, right in the bathroom.

The best backpacks for cats

Ergonomic carrying backpacks for cats are in demand in Russian pet stores. They are more convenient and lighter than traditional models. The main advantage is hands-free. To keep cats calm, there is a transparent convex porthole window in the central part of the backpacks. When determining the leaders, the VyborExpert.ru team studied popular models, selecting the 2 best.

Xiaomi Petkit Fresh Wind Cat Backpack Green

The backpack carrier for cats with a porthole is designed for an animal weighing 2-8 kg. Made of textile, polycarbonate, plastic. There is enough space inside for comfortable placement. Does not deform under weight. The self-locking zipper prevents the cat from escaping. Carrying parameters: 33*30*45cm. Country of origin: China.

Advantages:

• Large viewing window with tinting;
• Well-thought-out air circulation system on three sides;
• Made from durable materials;
• Fan with several operating modes using touch control;
• Hidden pocket with zipper;
• Thanks to the internal lighting, it is suitable for walking in the dark.

Flaws:

• The kit does not include a battery to power the backlight.

Thanks to the non-standard size of the viewing window, the model stands out from similar backpack carriers. The model with a porthole resembles an aquarium. Important elements are the anatomical back with a shock-absorbing effect and durable straps that do not chafe the shoulders. There is a handle on top in case you need to carry it by hand.

Melenni Standard VIP S

A semicircular backpack with a window. Can be worn over your shoulders or in front of you. Equipped with wide adjustable straps. Weight: 400 g. Country of origin: Russia. The warranty period is 6 months. Price up to 4000 rubles.

Advantages:

• Elastic animal restraint in the neck area;
• Leash with carabiner inside;
• Foam-compacted bottom;
• Orthopedic back;
• Breathable mesh in the front;
• Two spacious pockets on the sides.

Flaws:

• Small capacity;
• If used in rainy weather, the cat will get wet.

In backpack carriers, the animal is subjected to slight shaking that occurs when the owner moves. The Melenni Standard VIP S model is equipped with a belt mount that securely fixes and reduces discomfort to a minimum. When placing an order on the company’s website, you can replace the standard “VIP” embroidery with the pet’s name. The cost of the additional service is 300 rubles.

Kangaroo

A kangaroo is a carrier that, to the untrained eye, looks like an ergonomic backpack, but has a number of significant differences. So, in a kangaroo, the child actually hangs on the crotch, the legs are NOT spread apart as in a baby carrier or sling, but hang down and hit the mother when walking. The center of gravity is usually shifted downwards and carrying a child with all these factors becomes uncomfortable for both mother and baby. What is important! It is not only inconvenient for a child to be in a kangaroo, but it is also harmful. When carrying a baby in a kangaroo, the load on his lower spine increases greatly, which makes him tired quickly.

In addition, in almost all kangaroo models it is not possible to breastfeed the baby.

As a rule, kangaroo straps are narrower and there is no belt, and kangaroos often have a rigid frame, which is why the baby is poorly secured and can “dangle” inside this carrier. However, there are kangaroo models that are very similar in terms of the parameters of the straps and the softness of the back with an ergo backpack, but have a narrow base of the back, so that you can carry the baby facing the world.

In an ergo or sling, the baby cannot be positioned facing away from the mother; in a kangaroo, both positions are possible.

Carrying the baby facing away from the mother is not recommended at all. Firstly, this position puts excessive stress on the child’s fragile spine. The spine of an adult has 4 curves and looks like the letter “S”; these curves provide the shock absorption we need when walking and relieve the load on the spinal discs.

The spine of a newborn is more like the letter “C”, and the curves are formed gradually throughout the first year of life. Accordingly, by forcibly straightening the baby’s spine, we create an unnecessary and harmful load. Also, in a position facing the world, the child is most often with straightened legs, which creates a dangerous load on the sacrum. The knees should be higher than the butt, then the load will primarily fall on the hips, which are additionally supported by the arms or sling.

Secondly, wearing the face away from the mother can negatively affect the child’s nervous system, since the world around is oversaturated with information: moving objects, sounds, colors, smells... Wearing it facing the world can be compared to watching TV, which cannot be turned off or switched to another channel. Information (necessary and not) comes in without restrictions, which naturally leads to nervous overexcitation and sleep problems (tested on my first child, author’s note). But for some reason, parents know about the dangers of cartoons and TV and try to limit them, but not wearing them facing the world. Facing the mother, the child has the opportunity to hide in time and take a break, thus dosing out incoming information from the outside.

Best Retainer Bag for Cats

Retainer bags are used for carrying and painlessly carrying out hygiene procedures and medical manipulations with a pet. The product securely fixes the animal and provides access to all parts of the body. Among the 4 nominees considered, only one model was included in the rating.

OSSO Fashion L С-1011

The OSSO Fashion L C-1011 retainer bag is convenient for trips to the veterinarian or groomer, as well as for home ear cleaning and nail trimming. Made from durable material. Equipped with four zippers for separate access to each paw. The tail section opens with a Velcro flap. Designed for an animal weighing 6-8 kg. Country of origin: Russia. You can buy it in online stores for 700-1000 rubles.

Advantages:

• Reinforced bottom providing protection against cat claws;
• Soft fleece collar that does not rub your neck;
• Waterproof fabric;
• Comfortable strap handles;
• Easy access to all parts of the body;
• Bright design.

Flaws:

• Weak Velcro;
• Pronounced smell of tarpaulin (gradually dissipates).

When buying OSSO Fashion L C-1011, you need to keep in mind that the product should fit the cat tightly. Otherwise, it will not be possible to achieve a strong fixation. The animal will get out of the spacious bag in a matter of minutes. Before leaving the house, it will not be superfluous to first check the strength of Velcro and locks.

Metal containers for transporting animals

Such carriers for cats can be called “professional”. They are more often used by breeders of purebred animals, veterinarians, employees of shelters and animal hotels.

Buying a metal cat carrier only makes sense if you plan to breed the breed or frequently visit animal exhibitions and clinics.

Best Cart for Cats

A pet carrier trolley will become an indispensable accessory for long-term trips. The design resembles a travel bag. Equipped with wheels and retractable handle. One model out of 3 considered made it to the TOP list. The leader has outperformed its competitors in terms of reliability and convenience.

Nobby Pilar

Rectangular in shape, ideal for traveling with cats and dogs weighing up to 8 kg. Made from high quality washable microfiber. Weight: 2.26 kg. Can be worn as a backpack on your back or in your hand as a bag. Country of origin: China.

Advantages:

• Convenient to place and remove the animal;
• Carabiner for leash;
• Continuous air circulation thanks to mesh on three sides;
• Loop for fastening to the car seat;
• Three spacious pockets.

Flaws:

• The zipper on the pocket may get stuck;
• When moving, you have to tilt the cart.

The Nobby Pilar carrying trolley, with dimensions 35*27*49 cm, has a discreet classic design in dark colors. The model is equipped with reflective stripes. According to reviews, it is convenient to use it in the dark without worrying about safety.

How to choose a cat carrier

A high-quality cat carrier provides ease of transportation and helps your pet feel confident while traveling. Therefore, you should approach the purchase of an accessory thoroughly. There are several criteria that will help you make the right choice.

Type of carrying

It is considered one of the determining criteria for selection. For trimming nails and carrying out grooming procedures, a carrier-fixator is suitable. When traveling by plane, you cannot do without a carrying bag that complies with air travel regulations.

For walks and short trips, folding carrier bags and backpacks are indispensable. Such models are considered practical and universal.

Size and weight

The parameters of the bag should allow the animal to take a comfortable position and, if necessary, freely change its body position. When choosing the right size, you should focus on the size of the cat.

The weight of the accessory affects the comfort of the owner. When hiking, you will have to carry the carrier in your hands. The most comfortable carrying capacity is no more than 1 kg.

Design

The product can be equipped with the following useful elements:

• Doors, windows;
• Carabiner for leash;
• Pockets for storing small items;
• Holes or mesh for air circulation;
• Straps and fastenings.

The cost depends on the design. Cheap cat carriers usually do not come with additional features.

Material

Mandatory - environmentally friendly materials that allow air to pass through. Models made from water-repellent fabrics are also practical. The manufacturing material must not be toxic. A persistent chemical odor indicates potential health hazards.

Reliability and comfort

Choose a model with elements that ensure reliability when moving:

• Zipper fasteners;
• Strong locks and Velcro;
• Connectors for fastening when traveling by car;
• Reliable doors;
• Soft restraints for your pet in the neck area.

An additional advantage will be: a soft inner lining, a hard bottom, a strong frame, a scratching post, and a drinking bowl.

Dimensions

The dimensions of the carriers play a very important role when transporting any animal, especially cats. She needs space so that her movements are not constrained. The choice of size depends on the build and weight of the cat.

For small breeds

For kittens and adult cats weighing no more than 5 kg, a product weighing 1-1.5 kg is suitable. Kittens feel great in wicker baskets. Besides, this picture looks very cute. For small breeds, fabric bags and backpacks with straps are suitable.

For large animals

Cats weighing 5-9 kg require a bag or container weighing 1.8-2 kg, and those weighing more than 10 kg require 2.5 kg. To accommodate a large cat you will need a larger model. Metal cages and plastic boxes are used. It is advisable to have wheels, since the weight of the carrier plus the weight of the cat is difficult even for a physically strong person, since it will take a lot of carrying, especially on a long journey.

For your information! The kitten should purchase a house for transportation “for growth”. The size of an adult cat is taken into account. For example, for Ragdolls or Maine Coons, a larger product is purchased, since the breed is large.

Which cat carrier is best?

Choose the appropriate option based on several factors: the conditions of the upcoming transportation, budget, and the nature of the pet. VyborExperta.ru recommends the following models for purchase:

• If you need to buy an inexpensive cat carrier - Teremok DO-1. A universal model for a low price copes with its direct functions.
• An easy-care carrier for cats - plastic model Homepet. Easy to clean, no absorption of foreign odors.
• Going on a long trip - the Nobby Pilar carrying trolley. Easy to move thanks to wheels and retractable handle.
• If necessary, free your hands - Melenni Standard VIP S in the form of a backpack. Protects the cat from shaking with a belt mount that secures the product.
• For air travel - Triol Santorini plane carrying bag. It is allowed to be taken into the cabin of an aircraft, since the model is manufactured in accordance with the standards.

Which model is better is up to the cat owner to decide. The main thing is that the pet is not afraid and does not experience discomfort when moving.

Hipsit

Hipsit is a carrier in the form of a wide belt with a shelf, which is fixed around the wearer’s waist. The belt of a hipsite is always quite wide - at least 13 cm. The shelf on which the child is located is at least 14 cm in its upper part. Some models of hipsites have removable backrests to secure the child located on it. An adhesive tape and fastek are sewn to the belt, with the help of which the carrier is secured to the waist of mom (or dad).

Hipsit can be used to carry a child who can sit up independently. This is usually around 6 months of age. But be careful, if your baby does not sit on his own at 6 months, then you should not use this carrier until the baby sits up on his own. Hipsit is perhaps the only carrier in which you can carry a child facing the world (not counting the kangaroo, the dangers of which we will talk about below).

In general, hipsit is intended for short walks with a child. And due to the fact that hipsit can put a little pressure on the mother’s thigh with its shelf, it is more convenient to start using it from the moment the child begins to walk independently. Until this time, it is still more convenient to use an ergonomic backpack or sling scarf.

During this period (when the child began to walk), the mother may think that she no longer needs a carrier at all, but at some point she is faced with the fact that the child who has recently started walking moves very slowly, and often goes completely in the wrong direction , which the mother needs. But at the same time, there are times when the mother is ready to let the baby run. It is in these cases that it is more convenient to use a hip sit - when the baby often has to be picked up or lowered to run. (In our case, hipsit was used from 1 year to 2.5-3 years. It helped with trips to the clinic, store, running to the car and from it to the destination, on trips, as well as on walks. Well, perhaps the least the standard way to use hipsite in my practice is to go to church for a service, author’s note)

Hipsit is suitable for mothers:

• whose children began to move independently (or at least sat up independently)
• who prefer to carry their child facing not only themselves, but also the world
• do not have the opportunity to use a stroller, because live in a multi-storey building without an elevator, or want to combine the use of a hipster and a stroller
• whose children actively walk and often ask to be held or run around
• want to be able to breastfeed the baby while the baby is in hipsitation
• who are in a hurry to run errands (for example, take an older child to kindergarten/school), but after completing all the important tasks they are ready to let the baby run around on his own.