Every cat owner wants their tabby to be as safe and comfortable as possible when traveling. For safe travel with your kitty, a cat carrier is an essential accessory.
Soft-sided cat carriers are the best when it comes to the transportation of felines. They are usually made from durable polyester, microfiber, or nylon and have added mesh for breathability and visibility.
Soft-sided cat carriers come in various styles, sizes and colors. Moreover, soft-sided cat carriers are lightweight, collapsible, easy to store while still being safe for your kitty.
Another reason why soft-sided cat carriers are popular among cat parents is their lower price when compared to other cat carriers.
Benefits of Best Cat Soft-Sided Carriers
- Lightweight-These carriers tend to be lighter and easier to carry when carrying your cat around.
- Space-Saving-These carriers can be folded or squeezed into tighter spaces when not in use thus are effective for people living in small apartments or condos where space is limited
- Great for Airline Travel-The carriers are perfect for airline travel where you can take your feline into the cabin with you.
- Stylish-Most of these carriers are quite attractive. They also come in a variety of colors for you to choose from.
- Multiple Access Points-This allows cats to easily get in and out and also enables you to easily check on the cat.
Since cats are extremely agile creatures that can fit through unbelievably small gaps, they tend to escape out of their carriers. This means that choosing the right carrier is very important. To make the process of choosing the right carrier tedious for you, we have narrowed down the options by compiling a review of the best soft-sided cat carriers to help you find the perfect kitty carrier.
8 Best Soft-Sided Cat Carriers
1) Prodigen Pet Carrier Airline-Approved Pet Carrier
Starting us off on the best soft-sided cat carriers is the Prodigen Pet Carrier that is made to ensure that your feline’s journey is safe and comfortable as well. A 3-layer fabric is one of the attributes that make this carrier a great choice for you.
The 3-layer fabric comprises a robust 60D Oxford cloth with a water-resistant coating, premium quality EPE FOAM layer for temperature comfort and support, and a lenient 210T Polyester taffeta.
A 4-layer comfy pet bed ensures the safety and comfort and of your beloved cat. A rubber coating is sprayed on the scratch-resistant mesh thus making it stronger. This offers fresher air and a better view so that the cat enjoys the outside and prevents your feline from absconding.
The upgraded self-lock zippers are normally used in high-end clothing also keep the cat from absconding. Three side entrances mean that going in and out is easy for your pet.
Additionally, this cat carrier has a padded shoulder strap that is adjustable and has carry handles making it easy to carry. The sides have silver reflective strips offering much personality and safety for your trips.
The carrier is nonetheless equipped with zippered pocket to store treats and other necessities. It has an airline-approved design that ensures secure transportation of your tabby.
Features
- Easy to access
- Good ventilation and visibility throughout
- 4 layer comfy pet bed
- Self-lock zippers prevent your cat from escaping
- Scratch-resistant and robust mesh with rubber coating
- Made with high-quality materials
- Easy to carry and store
- Airline approved design
2) Vceoa Carriers Soft-Sided Pet Carrier for Cats
To safely and comfortably transport your feline whether, during a trip or visit to the vet, you need a cat carrier that is up for the task. Vceoa Soft-Sided Pet Carrier is what you need as it not only guarantees the physical safety of your cat but her emotional wellbeing as well. As one of the best soft-sided cat carriers, this pet carrier boasts unrivaled versatility and great functionality.
The carrier is easy to access through the top or side entry. For good ventilation, the carrier has mesh windows thus ensuring a comfortable journey for your kitty as she enjoys the view.
The Vceoa pet carrier for cats has a detachable base insert that forms a firm surface for your cat to stand on along with a comfy fleece pet bed that provides a comfortable sleeping space and is detachable and hand washable.
Besides, this soft-sided cat carrier is easy to carry courtesy of the carrying handles and a shoulder strap that is adjustable and can also be used as a seat belt. The back strap can secure the carrier to your gear.
Additionally, the carrier is easy to set up and store as you simply fold flat when not in use. Whatever trip you are having with your tabby, with this cat carrier, you will have a wonderful experience.
Features
- Two entrance points hence easy to access
- Easy to carry
- Easy to store as it folds flat
- Mesh windows for good ventilation
- Comfy fleece pet bed for a comfortable sleeping space
- Adjustable shoulder strap
3) Sherpa Travel Original Deluxe Airline Approved Pet Carrier
As one of the best soft-sided cat carriers, the Sherpa Travel Original Deluxe Airline Approved Pet Carrier is what you need to keep your cat safe during travel. It also gives you peace of mind knowing that your feline is comfortable and safe.
One attribute that makes this cat carrier a perfect choice for you is the patented spring wire frame that enables the back end of the carrier to be pushed down some inches to adapt to under-seat adjustments. Also, your cat will have good ventilation as she enjoys the view outside as the carrier has mesh windows that make that possible.
A back pocket provides expedient storage for treats and other essentials. In addition, the carrier is easy to access with two entrances at the top and side. For additional safety, it has locking zippers to prevent the tabby from escaping.
Besides, the carrier is easy to carry as it has a non-slip carrying strap that is adjustable and padded as well. This elegant cat carrier has a lightweight yet durable quilted nylon construction. It also includes a soft and comfy faux lambskin liner that is detachable and machine washable.
Features
- Easy to access
- Provides good ventilation
- Leak-proof
- Ensures safety and comfort of your kitty
- Easy to carry
- Locking zippers for additional safety
- Lightweight and stylish design
- Detachable and machine-washable faux lambskin liner
- Back pocket for storage of treats and other essentials
4) Comsmart Cat Carrier
Constructed with polyester fabric material that is upgraded, lightweight, non-toxic and scratch-resistant, the Comsmart Cat Carrier is one of the most durable pet carriers in the market.
Like most soft-sided cat carriers, this pet carrier is collapsible for utmost convenience when it comes to storage and transport. Also, this carrier easily fits into your luggage.
The cat carrier is easy to carry as it has a shoulder strap that can be adjusted for hands-free carrying. It fits the under-seat requirements of most airlines as it has an airline-approved design. Designed for small and medium cats, this carrier is easy to access using the two entry points at the top and side.
Entry with mesh ventilation offers adequate fresh air and allows the cat to easily have a view of the outside. Two steel rods with advanced memory metal are found at the top edges and ensure a robust steel frame that is non-collapsible. A strong fiber brace ensures the safety and stability of your furry friend when in motion.
For more comfort for your beloved four-legged friend, the bottom of the carrier has a 3-layer thicker pad that is detachable and machine washable. All these attributes make this carrier a worthwhile investment for you and your tabby.
Features
- Collapsible thus easy to store
- Mesh that is scratch resistant ensures proper ventilation and ore view for the kitty
- Easy to carry
- Made with lightweight yet resilient materials
- Two side entrance for easy access
- Ideal for small and medium cats
- The bottom has a 3 layer thicker pad for comfort
- Strong steel frame
5) X-ZONE PET Cat Carrier
You can never go wrong with the X-ZONE PET Cat carrier as it is specifically designed to ensure the ultimate comfort and safety of your tabby whenever you are traveling with her. Constructed with robust Oxford Fabric and Mesh, the carrier excellently resists tear that is brought about by claws.
This cat carrier is easy to access with two entrances at the top and side. The top entrance can be unzipped so that the cat pokes her head out. The mesh windows allow you cat ton enjoy the view while breathing fresh air. It is nonetheless easy to carry as it is equipped with carrying handles and an adjustable shoulder strap.
The pet carrier has an airline-approved design which means that you can bring along your cat just about anywhere. It can also be secured in a car seat and clasped on luggage.
Assembly is easy as well as storage as it folds flat when not in use. A thicker bottom plate provides better balance. To prevent your feline from escaping, the carrier has auto-lock zipper sliders and a tether.
Features
- Easy to carry and store as well
- Easy to access with two entrances
- Easy to assemble
- Airline approved design
- Comfy fleece pad
- Good ventilation because of the mesh windows
- Made with resilient materials
- Auto-lock zipper sliders to prevent your cat from escaping
6) NECOICHI Portable Stress-Free Series
Necoichi is a Japanese name that means cats’ first meaning that this soft-sided cat carrier is made with cats’ needs in mind. This is a portable and stylish carrier that is spacious enough to hold two cats with a travel litter bag.
Your cat will not only be safe and secure but comfortable as well as it has back seatbelt straps and has a fleece mat for maximum comfort. The fleece mat is waterproof and removable thus easy to clean.
The carrier is easy to store as it folds flat when not in use. It is nevertheless easy to carry. On top of that, the carrier ensures maximum ventilation and visibility for your beloved pet as it has two mesh panel sides.
It is perfect for travel, as an escape during nerve-racking times, or simply a quiet place for your feline to laze at home. All these amazing features make it undoubtedly one of the best cat soft-sided carriers for you to choose from.
Features
- Can hold two cats
- Fleece mat for ultimate comfort
- Mesh windows ensure ventilation and visibility
- Easy to access
- Easy to carry
- Folds flat for easy storage
- Simple to set up
7) ZaneSun Soft-Sided Cat Carrier
This is another soft-sided carrier that guarantees the safety and comfort of your beloved four-legged companion whenever you decide to hit the road with her. It is airline approved meaning that you can take your kitty everywhere.
The carrier allows your cat to have a good time enjoying the view while having adequate fresh air as it has a four-side breathable mesh. The mesh is scratch-resistant so that you don’t have to worry about bites. To prevent the cat from absconding, it has advanced self-lock zippers that are normally used in high-end clothing.
On top of that, the carrier is constructed with 600D oxford material that is long-lasting provides adequate oxygen. It is easy to carry as it has carrying handles and a padded and adjustable shoulder strap.
When not in use, it folds flat for convenient storage. Besides that, this carrier has a multi-functional pocket at the side that stores essentials such as toys and treats. The mat inside is soft and has a foam layer. It is also removable making it easy to clean.
Features
- Mesh panels for breathability
- Self-lock zippers to prevent accidental escape
- Constructed with 600D oxford material
- Easy to carry
- Easy to store when not in use
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Side pocket for storage of essentials
- The soft mat found inside is removable and easy to clean
8) Akinerri Airline Approved Pet Carriers
Our review of the best cat soft-sided carriers concludes with Akinerri Airline Approved Pet Carrier that provides a solution to a cat owner who is looking for a soft-sided cat carrier that will do a wonderful job when it comes to traveling with their cat and one that is reliable.
Constructed with robust Oxford fabric and mesh, this carrier prevents tear from claws. To prevent your feline from escaping, it has auto-lock zipper sliders and a tether. A belt loop on the side panel facilitates secure transportation of your per. Better yet, the assembling process of this carrier is super easy.
When not in use, it folds down flat for storage. Also, it is easy to access with two entry points at the top and side. It is nonetheless easy to carry as it is equipped with carrying handles and an adjustable shoulder strap. Mesh windows allow ventilation and visibility.
For ultimate comfort, the carrier has a comfy fleece pad that is removable thus also easy to clean. This is the perfect carrier for your cat as it gives you peace of mind knowing that your feline is happy, safe and comfortable.
Features
- Folds down flat for convenient storage
- Made with high-quality materials
- Auto-lock zippers prevent the cat from escaping
- Easy to assemble
- Easy to carry
- Comfy fleece pad that is removable
- Mesh windows for visibility and ventilation
- Strong steel frame for stability
- Two entrance points
See Also
Best Soft-Sided Cat Carriers Buying Guide & FAQs
Considerations When Selecting the Best Cat Soft-Sided Carriers
Cat’s Temperament
How your act acts when confined in a small space is an important consideration to put in mind. Consider a cat carrier with walls that are more solid as opposed to the mesh-heavy ones if your cat uses her claws and teeth to show displeasure with being stuck in a carrier.
Travel Plans
If you anticipate taking your feline with you on a plane, you will likely want the smallest carrier possible that she can fit in. Look for something larger if you intend to have a road trip with the cat. Size doesn’t matter that much if you only plan to make short trips to the vet. However, you will want a carrier that is easy to clean in case of accidents.
Quality
A determined cat will use their sharp claws to abscond if the carrier is made of weak materials thus ripping it off. Nylon and polyester are the most commonly used materials for carriers but the mesh ventilation windows are what should be the toughest as they are the most susceptible to shredding.
Access Points
One of the hardest aspects of traveling with cats is getting them in and out of the carrier. Having multiple access points provides different options to help them get in and out and goes a long way in preventing agonizing scratches.
Ventilation
Get a carrier with adequate airflow to keep the cat cool and allow her to have a clear view of the outside. It should also allow a bit of light in.
Handles and Wheels
Having a carrier that is comfortable for both you and your cat is important. Padded shoulder straps and comfortable handles are great and prevent the carrier from accidentally dropping as it can be traumatic for your cat and can even lead to injuries. Carriers with wheels are very convenient but tend to be bulkier and heavier.
Related Post: Best Airline Approved Pet Carriers
Types of Soft Sided Cat Carriers
- Backpacks
These carriers mostly have wheels and a handle so they can be turned into a rolling case. However, many cats may cat get startled by the sounds and bumpiness of being rolled along the sidewalk
- Tote
These cat carriers normally have one or more zippered doors and two different sets of straps that can be slung over your shoulder or just be carried like a tote bag.
- Bag or Sling
This type of carrier is the smallest. It is worn as a sling over the shoulder and across the body. The cat’s body stays inside the carrier while her head stays out so she can watch the world pass by.
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How to Get Your Cat to Like Her Carrier
- Start Young-Kittens usually adjust to new experiences and surroundings more easily than adult or senior cats. It is thus important to start the carrier training [process as early as possible
- Keep the Carrier Accessible-Many cats begin to feel anxious as soon as the carrier appears as they only see it when it’s time to go somewhere. Instead, keep the carrier on the floor and open at all times so that the cat can come and go as she pleases.
- Make the Carrier a Nice Place to Be-Place some cozy bedding in and toss in a few treats, favorite toys, or catnip when you first set it up. Restock the supply every few days.
- Feed the Cat Inside the Carrier-Begin feeding the cat inside the carrier daily if she can eat while there. If she won’t, put her food dish a few feet away and move it an inch or closer to the carrier each day and ensure that she keeps eating. If she stops, moves the food a little farther away and then move it closer more slowly.
- Get the Cat to Do Different Things in the Carrier-Close the door while she is inside and leave the room for a few minutes. Prop the carrier door open again when you return. This will help the cat feel the carrier is not a trap.
Best Soft-Sided Cat Carriers FAQs
Q: Can a Cat Stay in a Carrier Overnight?
A cat will be fine sleeping in a carrier overnight as long as she had had access to food and water during the day and let her out in the morning. Allow the cat to have access to the litter box before closing her in for the night.
Q: Do Cats Prefer Hard or Soft Carriers?
Cats that are generally predisposed to anxiety or aggression when they travel will do better in a hard carrier. Cats with more calm personalities may prefer a fabric carrier. You should also think about what you are physically able to carry.
Conclusion
The soft-sided cat carriers elucidated above prioritize the comfort of your four-legged friend while also making it easy for you to lug them around. They are great choices for you. Get one of the best soft-sided cat carriers and experience stress-free travel for both you and your feline.