Best Cat Carrier for Car

When it comes to car travel with your feline companion, having the right cat carrier can make all the difference. Not all carriers are created equal, and it’s important to consider the specific needs and preferences of both you and your cat when selecting the best option.

Some key features to look for in a cat carrier for car travel include airline approval, collapsibility for easy storage, and a machine washable design. A carrier with breathable mesh panels and expandable sides can provide plenty of airflow for your cat, and mesh windows allow them to see their surroundings and feel more secure.

A Sherpa lining or other soft material can make the carrier more comfortable for your cat, and seat belt loops or a carry handle make it easier for you to transport the carrier safely in the car.

It’s also a good idea to consider the size of your cat, as well as any additional features such as a built-in litter box or carrier backpack option. With so many options available, it’s worth taking the time to find the best cat carrier for car travel to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey for both you and your furry friend.

Traveling with your cat or taking them to the vet is not easy. Cautious by nature, cats aren’t fans of unfamiliar places, so if your fur baby likes staying inside, she’ll probably freak out as soon as you put her on the car seat.

Even if your felines have taken a couple of car rides before, you can’t guarantee that they’ll let you drive in peace. You can’t expect them to behave, and chances are that they’ll roam around the entire vehicle. To give your kitty a sense of security, you need the best cat carrier for your car. Speaking of which, you’re probably wondering which cat carrier to choose. Here are some of the top picks. 

Table of Contents

Best for More than One Cat- SPORT PET Large Pop Open Kennel

Cat carriers are important for pet parents to take their furry friends along with them in the car, whether it’s for a road trip or a regular visit to the vet. However, it can be a problem when you have more than one cat to take along with you. Taking two carriers can be quite the hassle, especially if you’re on your own. The only solution is a carrier that’s big enough for two, in which case the SPORT PET Large Pop Open Kennel is a great option for your kittens. These best cat carrier for car are super portable, waterproof, and spacious enough for two cats. 

And don’t worry; your super-strong feline won’t be able to break through the gate to wreak havoc while you’re driving. The gate is durable enough to prevent your nosy cat from damaging it. Plus, your kitty won’t want to get out of the carrier when she can see what’s outside. The mesh-made panels on the sides allow your cats to look outside and get a whiff of the new space. They’ll be able to see you as well, which helps them stay calm in an unfamiliar space. So, if you are looking for a safe and spacious solution for two cats, this is just what you need. 

Best Cat Carrier for Car – for Large and Medium Cats- Top Load Pet Carrier of Petisfam

Struggling to find a bigger carrier for your extra chubby kitty? The Top Load Pet Carrier easily accommodates your cat, so she has plenty of room to sit. Meanwhile, the carrier itself won’t cover the entire back seat of your car. 

This product makes it easy to take along your big kitty on trips. To prevent suffocation and irritation, the carrier offers excellent ventilation. The mesh panels allow your cat to look outside as you drive, while the lightweight design makes it easy to carry. This is thanks to the sturdy mesh composition that doesn’t tear and ensures optimal comfort for your cat.  

Best Overall- Petsfit Cat Carrier

While a roomy carrier means great news for your fur baby, It always leaves less room for the rest of the things you keep in the backseat. Lucky for this, this Petsfit carrier can expand based on your needs. Let’s say you’re traveling on a plane and need to fit the carrier under the seat. On the way to the airport, you can open up the zippers, so your cat has plenty of room. Then, on the plane, you can close them up, so the carrier fits on the floor space near you. The locking safety zippers prevent your cat from getting out of the carrier without you opening it.

The removable shoulder strap allows you to adjust the carrier based on your needs. The straps make it easy to carry in case the parking spot is far and you have to walk long distances. Want to carry your cat’s vet reports along with a few cat accessories? The carrier has a back to take them along. Worried about damage due to wear and tear? The carrier has a fiberglass construction, offering strength and durability. 

Best for Security- Pet Gear View 360 Pet Carrier and Car Seat

If your cat’s safety is a major concern, this pet carrier is just what you need. Pet Gear View 360 Pet Carrier fits perfectly in just about every seat frame. It has a basket-like shape and comes with rod legs that keep the carrier steady on the seat no matter how bumpy the road is. It also doesn’t have any zippers, making it a great pick for frisky felines that tear zippers after a few trips.

Using this cat carrier for cars is pretty easy- you don’t need any tools to assemble it, and it comes with a dual push button for easy access to your kitty. It also has an interior tether, which you can attach to your cat’s harness for optimal security. A washable and removable fleece comfort pad makes it cozier for long trips.

Best for Size Options- Amazon Basics Soft-Sided Mesh Pet Travel Carrier

This soft-sided carrier will keep your pet comfortable as you travel. Since you’re already enjoying a scenic view on the trip, your furry friend should get a change of scenery as well. Lucky for you, the Amazon Basics Soft-Sided Mesh Pet Travel Carrier features 360-degree views due to its mesh composition. This way, your cat won’t complain about not being able to see you during the trip.

The carrier also has front and top zipper doors, making it easy to keep your feline inside the carrier. You can even wash the fleece pad by putting it in the washer. Once it’s dry, it’s easy to put back in the carrier.  

Best for All Ages- K & H Pet Products Travel Safety Carrier for Pets

This is the last carrier on our list, but it certainly doesn’t lack in terms of functionality. It can hold up to 20 pounds in weight, making it suitable for bigger breeds. 

The strap loop around the headrest and carrier straps attach to any car seat belt. You can open the carrier from the front or any side to access your cat when feeding treats or checking up on her. Wondering how to put it away when you don’t need it? This travel safety carrier can fold flat, so it won’t take up any space when you aren’t using it. 

Bottom Line

In a nutshell, the right cat carrier for cars can make any cat parent’s life easier. Traveling becomes more exciting, and your feline friend will enjoy spending time with you too. Want to learn more about cat products? Look at the Cat Product Guide’s website to get insightful knowledge about cat products.

Ashley is the co-founder of CatProductGuide.com. She is a professional writer, whose work has been seen in many top publications and websites, like Digital Trends, Opposing Views, Men's Health, and more. She is passionate about all animals, and loves her cats Felix and Lola. Ashley enjoys finding the best products and foods to ensure they're living their best lives possible!