So your cat is on the larger side? Well, big is beautiful as well and you do not have to stress yourself out about how you are going to parent them.
One of the things that may be a cause for concern is getting them a carrier. Of course, you will need one to transport them to and from the vet or even travel with them.
As you look for the best cat carrier for large cat, you also want to ensure that the one you pick is airline approved.
This is because you will not be allowed to travel with just any pet carrier by your favorite airline. Check for labels that confirm a carrier is airline approved.
Better still, you can confirm with your airline whether the unit you intend to buy is approved. This article is supposed to help you make the right choice so keep it here if you are in the market for a larger pet carrier.
Large Cat Carriers Comparison Table
Are you in a bit of a hurry? We understand that and we would not want you to hastily go through this review and end up not grasping the most important points.
To that effect, we have put together the following comparison table that summarizes our top choices so you can make a quicker decision.
| Rank | Product Name | Brand | Weight |
| 1 | Petmate Sky Kennel Pet Carrier, 4 Way Vault Door | Petmate | 2.2 Pounds |
| 2 | Sherpa Travel Original Deluxe Airline Approved Pet Carrier Large & Black | Sherpa | 3.3 Pounds |
| 3 | Pet Fit For Life Large Portable Cat Cage | Pet Fit For Life | 4 Pounds |
| 4 | Petmate 24” Long and 15” High Two Door Top Load | Petmate | 5.8 Pounds |
| 5 | Siivton Airline Approved Soft-Sided Dog Cat Carrier, 4 Sides Expandable Pet Carrier | Siivton | 3.65 Pounds |
| 6 | Pet Magasin Fabric Material Hard Cover Collapsible Cat Carrier for Cats, Small Dogs Puppies & Rabbits | Pet Magasin | 2.11 pounds |
| 7 | Sport Pet Front Door Plastic Foldable Travel Cat Carrier | Sport Pet | 6.41 Pounds |
| 8 | A4Pet Airline Approved Cat Carrier, Pet Travel Washable Carrier for Kittens, Puppies, Rabbit, Hamsters | A4Pet | 1.81 Pounds |
| 9 | SturdiBag Large Flexible Height Pet Carrier, Interior fleece pad secured by Velcro | SturdiBag | 2.6 Pounds |
How to Pick the Best Cat Carrier for Large Cat – Buyer’s Guide
Choosing a pet carrier for bigger cats will take a bit of consideration. Here are some of the factors you need to consider.
Carrier Weight
You will realize that most pet carriers are already heavy even without a pet inside. Since you will be the one carrying the carrier, it is important to consider your welfare as well.
In that regard, you want to get a carrier that is made of lightweight material seeing as we are talking about larger cats that will be quite heavy.
Consider getting a carrier on wheels or one in a stroller design if your cat is too heavy to carry around.
Comfort Ability
Your cat needs to be comfortable while in transit mainly because they tend to get anxious once placed in their carrier.
In that regard, you want to get one with cushioning or with a detachable pad where your cat can relax while traveling.
This will reduce their anxiety and ensure that they are not fatigued throughout the journey.
Carrier Size
Seeing as you are shopping for a larger cat, you want to consider the size of the carrier. By this, we mean that the carrier needs to be spacious.
It has to be large enough for your cat to lie down, stand up, and even stretch. If you get a smaller carrier, your kitty is likely to feel restricted and experience increased anxiety.
Top-rated Cat Carriers for Large Cats
To take the guesswork out of your shopping experience, we have reviewed some top pet carriers below.
1. Petmate Sky Kennel Carrier
To start us off, we have this carrier from Petmate that comes with a 4-way vault opening to offer additional security to your cat while in transit.
Last update on 2024-08-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This unit features heavy-duty construction so you can be sure that it will last a long time.
What We Loved about It
Your kitty is not going to be gasping for air or overheating while in this carrier because it comes with adequate ventilation.
However, what we loved most about it is that it is extremely easy to assemble so you won’t spend much time or effort there.
What Could Have Been Better
This unit is smaller than marketed according to some users. We feel that the manufacturer should have been transparent with that.
Pros
- Safety features
- Easy to assemble
- Sturdy
Cons
- Misleading product description
2. Sherpa Travel Pet Carrier
Whether you intend to travel by car or plane, this pet carrier offers the comfort your cat needs. It is airline-approved as well so that’s a plus, right?
Last update on 2024-08-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What We Liked about It
One of the best things about this carrier is that it comes with a spring wire frame that allows you to push it down several inches so that it fits under your plane seat.
What we loved most, however, is that it comes with a rear pocket that you can use to store essentials such as toys or treats.
What Could Have Been Better
According to some users, this unit is made of flimsy material that easily falls apart. The manufacturer should have used better-quality material in the construction.
Pros
- Sturdy
- Spacious
- Portable
Cons
- Questionable quality
3. Pet Fit For Life Water/Food Bowl
You will love this carrier not only because it is extra-large hence ideal for bigger cats, but also because it comes with a portable litter box to help you maintain hygiene while on the go.
Last update on 2024-08-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
It is also collapsible thus great for keeping your kitty contained and secure during emergencies or when you have company.
What We Liked about It
Featuring a durable nylon fabric construction and a flexible steel frame, you can rely on this unit to last more than anticipated.
We love that this carrier is spacious enough for your cat to fit comfortably. To add more to your kitty’s comfort, it comes with a soft velvet pad for your cat to lie in.
What Could Have Been Better
As some users have complained, this pet carrier does not come with adequate support, especially at the bottom. We feel that the manufacturer should have factored this in during construction.
Pros
- Collapsible
- Spacious
- Comfortable
Cons
- Not as sturdy
4. Petmate Two Door Top Load
It is important to have easy access to your cat while in their carrier and that is exactly what this one offers with its top entry door.
Last update on 2024-08-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Besides, the carrier is airline-approved since it meets most airline specifications.
What We Loved about It
You will not experience any issues as far as carrying this unit. How so? It comes with an ergonomic and comfortable grip that will not leave you fatigued.
Moving on swiftly, it has ventilated sides to allow free flow of air but what we found most appealing is that it comes with security features to reduce the likelihood of your cat escaping.
What Could Have Been Better
Unfortunately, this piece appears to have sharp air holes that have injured many cats. The manufacturer should have checked on this before releasing the product to the market.
Pros
- Security features
- Sturdy
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Safety hazard
5. Siivton Pet Carrier
Since you are in the market for a carrier for larger cats, you will need an expandable one and you will get that with one. It easily folds down and unzips to create more room for your cat.
Last update on 2024-09-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This allows them to move around comfortably and decreases the anxiety that comes with confinement.
What We Liked about It
You can secure this unit in your car with a seatbelt, wear it over your shoulder, or carry it with a top handle. This makes it ideal for all kinds of travel.
Moving on swiftly, it comes with a cozy fleece pad that is detachable and can be machine-washed. How cool is that?
What we loved most though is that this carrier comes with mesh windows that facilitate proper ventilation.
What Could Have Been Better
Judging from reviews, the main zipper of this unit appears not to be of high-quality seeing as many people have complained that it broke immediately they started using the carrier.
We feel that the manufacturer should have used better-quality material in the construction.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Durable
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Cheaply made
6. Pet Magasin Cat Carrier
Your large cat needs a sturdy surface to stand on so it does not come as a surprise that this particular carrier comes with a hard base and hardtop.
Last update on 2024-08-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
One thing that we found appealing about this unit is that it comes with soft sides that can be folded down into a neat and compact package that takes up little space.
What We Liked about It
This unit features a padded mat for a base that offers your kitty a comfortable surface to stand on. Other than that, it features a mesh door that not only lets air in but also allows your cat to view whatever is going on outside.
We love that the carrier comes with several security features as well to ensure that your kitty remains intact while in transit.
What Could Have Been Better
Some users have complained that this carrier falls apart easily. This could be because of poor quality material or poor construction. Anyway, we feel that the manufacturer should have made this unit with longevity in mind.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Sturdy
- Security features
Cons
- Poorly made
7. Sport Pet Travel Cat Carrier
The first thing you want to know about this carrier is that it is an original design. It comes with a wide side door that makes it easy for your kitty to walk in and out.
Last update on 2024-08-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The door is detachable as well so you can be assured of easier access to your pet.
What We Liked about It
You will appreciate a pet carrier that folds and unfolds seamlessly especially if you have limited storage space but even if that is not the case, you need that kind of functionality while traveling.
Besides, this carrier is extremely easy to clean and comes with a coy ad comfortable lounging area for your cat. We love that about it.
What Could Have Been Better
As some users have reported, their cats were able to claw and chew their way out of this carrier. This means that it is not as robust.
The manufacturer should have used stronger materials in the construction to avoid the same.
Pros
- Easy to fold
- Comfortable
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Not as durable
8. A4Pet Cat and Dog Carrier
With this soft-sided pet carrier, you get to travel with your cat on most airlines since it meets most airline specifications. It can be placed under a car seat as well or fastened on luggage.
Last update on 2024-08-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Moving on swiftly, this unit comes with a side opening that allows your car to easily get in and out.
What We Liked about It
If you are looking for a pet carrier that is foldable for easy storage, you have to consider this one because it comes with that feature.
Moreover, it comes with a rigid but comfortable cushion to guarantee stability while on the move. What we love most however is that this unit is lightweight hence portable. It is well-vented as well for proper air circulation.
What Could Have Been Better
This carrier comes with a long rod that runs across the side of the box. Of course, your cat can be trapped there and even suffer injuries.
We feel that the manufacturer should have put more thought into the design of the carrier.
Pros
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Value for money
Cons
- Poorly designed
9. SturdiBag Large Pet Carrier
This unit offers durability owing to its 600 Denier Polyester make up. You may also want to note that it is quite lightweight and will therefore not pose a problem as far as portability.
Last update on 2024-08-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Besides, it features a padded shoulder strap to guarantee comfort while carrying.
What We Liked about It
This unit comes with mesh windows to allow for air circulation. However, it does also feature retractable flaps that offer your kitty privacy whenever they need it.
Another great thing about this product is that it comes with zipper clips and a tether for added security for your pet and we love that about it.
What Could Have Been Better
Some users have complained that this unit fell apart after several uses and we feel that the manufacturer should have constructed it with longevity in mind.
Pros
- Portable
- Spacious
- Sturdy
Cons
- Not as durable
Frequently Asked Questions
At this point, you probably have a few questions when it comes to the best cat carrier for large cats. We have addressed several commonly asked ones below that could be of help.
Can I put two cats in a carrier?
Yes, you can. However, this will depend on the size of the carrier. Smaller cats can fit in an average size carrier while bigger cats will need a larger carrier.
That said. You should not leave the cats in the carrier for long, as they will need space to stretch and move around.
Does my cat prefer a soft or hard carrier?
Cats are generally susceptible to aggression and anxiety while traveling and as such, they are likely to bite and claw. If your cat is of this kind, they will be better off with a hard carrier.
If they are more laid back, you can go for a soft carrier.
What is the best cat carrier?
Now, there are many great products in the market so this will depend on what you are looking for. Generally, a durable, well-ventilated, and expandable carrier will work just fine.
Our Top Pick
We have assessed all the products in this review and chosen the Petmate Sky Kennel Carrier as our top pick.
First, it comes with security features to guarantee your kitty’s safety while on the move. Other than that, it is made of strong material that will guarantee durability.
Other things that influenced our choice include proper ventilation and an easy assembly process.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are several options to choose from as far as good cat carriers for large cats are concerned. The selection process can be daunting and confusing but that is why we put together this review.
Now that you have it at hand, making the right choice should not be as hard.
