If you prefer having a larger cat as a pet, then a Maine Coon would be the perfect candidate. This is because this is the largest breed when it comes to domestic cats.
Another thing you need to keep in mind before getting this cat is that it will continue growing until it is about 5 years of age.
Of course, this means that they will outgrow their carrier every few months for the first five years. Wait, a carrier? Yes, because you will need that for carrying your kitty to the vet, running errands, or even traveling.
Luckily, there is a wide array of large carriers that you can buy and if push comes to shove, you can always opt for a dog carrier since it is larger.
Usually, carriers are advertised s for cats or dogs but the truth is that what you need is a pet carrier. The only difference is that cats will fit in a smaller carrier compared to dogs.
In this best cat carrier for Maine Coon review, we will cover everything we think you need to know before making your purchase so keep it here for that.
The Perfect Maine Coon Carrier: A Comparison Table
Before we go any further, we understand that you may be unable to go through this entire review. To that effect, we have put together the following comparison table to help you make a quicker choice.
| Rank | Product Name | Brand | Weight |
| 1 | Soft Sided Folding Small Medium Dog Pet Carrier, Extra Large Cat Carrier by Petseek | Petseek | 7.15 Pounds |
| 2 | Petmate 28 Inch Sky Kennel Pet Carrier | Petmate | 12.5 Pounds |
| 3 | Sherpa Travel Original Deluxe Airline Approved Pet Carrier Black Color | Sherpa | 3.2 Pounds |
| 4 | Large Flexible Height Pet Carrier by SturdiBag | SturdiBag | 2.6 Pounds |
| 5 | PETRIP Cat Carrier Cat Backpack Carrier for Large Cats 22 lbs Dog Backpack, Hiking Airline Approved Pet Carrier | PETRIP | 4.36 Pounds |
| 6 | Sport Pet Front Door Plastic Foldable Travel Cat Carrier, 35 lbs | Sport Pet | 6.41 Pounds |
| 7 | petisfam Top Load Pet Carrier. Easy to get cat in, Carry, Storage, Clean and Escape Proof | petisfam | 2.35 Pounds |
How big are Maine Coons?
Well, a male Maine Coon weighs 15-20 pounds with an average height of 10—16 inches while a female one will weigh 10-15 pounds and have a height of 8-14 inches according to Mainecoon.org.
Of course, your cat may fall in the upper or lower of these ranges. In that regard, the best thing to do would be to measure your kitty before purchasing a carrier for them.
Remember that these cats keep growing until they are 5 years old so be ready to replace their carrier frequently if they are below that age.
Best-Rated Cat Carriers for Maine Coons
Picking a carrier for larger cats can be taxing but that does not have to be your reality. We have taken the guesswork out of it by reviewing some of the top choices in the market.
1. Petseek Extra Large Cat Carrier
First, on our list, we have this pet carrier that can accommodate up to 55 pounds of weight. This is perfect for your Maine coon since the heaviest one will not weigh more than 20 pounds.
Last update on 2024-08-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What We Liked about It
Since Maine Coons are large cats, you will need a sturdy carrier and that is exactly what this one offers. That is not all though because it is collapsible as well making it easy to store.
However, what we loved most about this carrier is that it is made from superior material that is easy to clean and wear-resistant.
What Could Have Been Better
Unfortunately, this unit does not come with a cover making it extremely easy for your pet to escape. We feel that the manufacturer should have simply included the cover to avoid the same.
Pros
- Durable
- Foldable
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Does not include a cover
2. Petmate Sky Pet Kennel Carrier
It is normal for your cat to slide and shift while in transit but that does not make it acceptable. This pet carrier comes with a 4-way vault door to provide additional security to prevent shifting and sliding while traveling.
Last update on 2024-08-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What We Liked about It
This pet carrier is likely to stand the test of time and that is because it is made from robust plastic shell, non-corrosive wing nuts, and a strong interlocking door for additional protection.
Other than that, it comes with several openings around it to allow for ventilation and we love that about it.
What Could Have Been Better
Most users have reported that this carrier is smaller than advertised. The manufacturer should have given a correct description to avoid customer mistrust.
Pros
- Durable
- Adequate ventilation
- Security features
Cons
- Misleading product description
3. Sherpa Pet Carrier
If you are looking for the perfect pet carrier for traveling by car or plane this has to be it mostly because it is extremely comfortable hence ideal for long trips.
Last update on 2024-08-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Besides, it comes with a spring wireframe that allows you to push the carrier down several inches so that it can fit under-seat requirements.
What We Liked about It
This unit comes with safety features such as locking zippers to keep your cat safe and prevent them from escaping. There are also mesh windows for proper ventilation so you can be sure your kitty will not be overheating in there.
What we love most however is that this carrier comes with a non-slip, padded, and adjustable carrying strap that makes it easier to carry the unit from one place to another.
What Could Have Been Better
According to some users, this carrier fell apart after several uses. We feel that the manufacturer should have used material that is of better quality during construction to avoid such.
Pros
- Airline approved
- Spacious
- Sturdy
Cons
- Questionable quality
4. SturdiBag Large Pet Carrier
You can rely on this piece to offer durability since it features a 600 Denier Polyester construction. It is also quite lightweight so carrying it around will not be a problem.
Last update on 2024-08-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Moving on swiftly, it comes with a leather handgrip and padded shoulder strap for convenient and easy transportation.
What We Liked about It
Although this carrier comes with mesh windows for ventilation, it also features retractable privacy flaps for when your cat needs that alone time.
You will love that this piece comes with a tether and zipper security clips to ensure that your kitty is safe and does not escape. We love that.
What Could Have Been Better
As reported by some users, this carrier broke after several uses. We feel that the manufacturer should have made it with durability in mind.
Pros
- Spacious
- Portable
- Sturdy
Cons
- Not as durable
5. PETRIP Cat Backpack Carrier
Looking at this carrier, it comes in a capsule design that not only makes it look stylish but futuristic as well. It has a bubble window that can ease your cat’s anxiety and provide security.
Last update on 2024-08-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This is the perfect carrier to enjoy sceneries and sunshine with your kitty or even traveling or hiking.
What We Liked about It
With a whopping 9 air holes, there is no way your cat will be gasping for air in this pet carrier. It also comes with a snap hook to offer additional safety and security so that your kitty does not escape.
Moving on swiftly, this carrier is made from durable and eco-friendly materials, and by that, we mean PU leather and oxford fabric. What we found most appealing nevertheless is that this carrier is waterproof and scratch-resistant.
What Could Have Been Better
Judging from reviews, this carrier will not last as long as expected even though the product description claims that it will.
We feel that the manufacturer should have used better-quality material in the construction to avoid this.
Pros
- Durable
- Sturdy
- Thick
Cons
- Not as durable
6. Sport Pet Cat Carrier
This carrier features a patented design door that opens wide. You will find this particularly helpful when it comes to your cat walking in and out effortlessly.
Last update on 2024-08-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The door is extra-large and detachable as well making it easy for you to place your pet inside and take them out.
What We Liked about It
You will appreciate that this unit folds and unfolds easily if you have limited storage space or travel often.
Another great thing about this product is that it is easy to clean because all you have to do is simply wipe with a damp piece of cloth and we love that about it.
What Could Have Been Better
Some users have complained that this unit caves in easily. The manufacturer should have used sturdier material in the construction to counter this.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Foldable
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Not as robust
7. Top Load Pet Carrier
Of course, this carrier makes it easier to travel with your cat but what you will appreciate more is that it doubles up as a bed.
Last update on 2024-09-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
It is designed in such a way that makes it easier for your cat to walk in and out.
What We Liked about It
You will get all the safety features you need in a pet carrier in this unit. We are talking about a leash hook, escape-proof zippers, and a sturdy base to ensure that your kitty does not keep toppling over while in transit.
What we loved most nevertheless is that this carrier features an adjustable shoulder strap that allows for hands-free carrying. It is foldable as well so you will not experience any issues as far as storage.
What Could Have Been Better
This unit is much smaller than advertised as some users have complained and we feel that the manufacturer should have been transparent with that.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Spacious
- Sturdy
Cons
- Misleading product description
Buying Guide – What to look for when picking the Best Cat Carrier for Maine Coon
You need to consider several features before picking a carrier for your Maine coon if you want to get value for your money.
Here are some of those features.
Carrier Expandability
We have already mentioned that these cats continue growing until they are about five years. This means that you have to replace your carrier often.
However, you can reduce the number of times that you have to do that by getting an expandable carrier. You see, with such a carrier, you can create more space and buy more time before you have to purchase another one.
Carrier Durability
Maine Coons are large cats so it is understood that you will need a sturdy and robust carrier for them.
Moreover, cats have the tendency to scratch and they may do that to their carrier. You want to also consider that your cat may try to chew their way out of the carrier if they feel anxious.
A strong carrier will be able to withstand such kind of abuse so that you do not have to replace yours sooner than you have to.
Airline Approval
You never know when you will have to travel by air with your cat. As such, you want to get a carrier that is airline-approved.
Most carriers come labeled as such but if you want to be on the safe side, check with your airline to confirm that the carrier you intend to get is approved.
You also want to ensure that your carrier of choice can fit under airline seats for comfortable and convenient traveling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below, we have tackled several commonly asked questions when it comes to cat carriers for Maine Coons. This should give you a clearer insight into the same.
Does my Maine Coon like to be held?
If they are a giant Maine Coon, they are probably not a fan of that because it can make them uncomfortable owing to their size.
However, these cats generally enjoy cuddling and being held by humans.
Are Maine Coons high maintenance?
Although these cats are bigger than the average cat, they are not high maintenance. It will not take much effort to keep your Maine Coon happy since they are not clingy and do not demand attention.
Our Top Pick
We chose the Petseek Extra Large Cat Carrier as our top pick after assessing all products. It can hold up to 55 pounds in weight and is therefore perfect for Maine Coon cats since they weigh a maximum of 20 pounds.
Since we are talking about large cats, you will appreciate that this unit is built to be sturdy. Moreover, it is foldable making it extremely easy to store.
Nonetheless, what we loved most about this carrier is that it is made from premium material that is wear-resistant and easy to clean.
Although it does not come with a cover, it makes up for that in terms of durability and functionality.
Conclusion
Owning a large cat does not have to be a chore especially when it comes to traveling. We have reviewed some of the best cat carriers for the Maine Coon family of cats and provided a buying guide as well.
With all that information, it should be easier to make a choice so go ahead and do that.
