What is your worst fear as a cat parent? We bet it is losing your pet. Of course, this is more likely to happen while traveling but sometimes you have to bring them along if there is no one to sit them.
The best thing you can do then is to get a carrier to ensure that your kitty is secure while on the go. However, a carrier is a foreign abode for your cat so they are likely to get anxious when inside.
In that regard, you want to get the best cat carrier for nervous cats. This should make your kitty comfortable and safeguard them from any injuries.
Perhaps you do not know how to go about your search for this carrier but that is why we are here. Read on to find out how to pick the right one for your kitty.
Top Cat Carriers for Anxious Cat – Comparison Table
Don’t have the time to read this entire review? Or you just do not want to? Well, the following comparison table will help you make a faster and informed decision as it briefly analyzes our top choices.
| # | Name | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Travel Original Deluxe Airline Approved Pet Carrier by Sherpa | 3.4 Pounds | Check Price |
| 2 | Two Door Top Load by Petmate | 6.42 Pounds | Check Price |
| 3 | Air in-Cabin Pet Carrier by Sleepypod | 4.5 Pounds | Check Price |
| 4 | Expandable Cat Carrier Dog Carriers by Petsfit | 2.7 Pounds | Check Price |
| 5 | Large Flexible Height Pet Carrier by Sturdi Products | 2.6 Pounds | Check Price |
| 6 | Two-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Pet Travel Carrier by Amazon Basics | 4.89 Pounds | Check Price |
| 7 | Compact Roller Pet Carrier for Dogs and Cats by Gen7Pets | 6.2 Pounds | Check Price |
| 8 | Airline Approved, Expandable Foldable Soft-Sided Pet Carrier by OMORC | 3.85 Pounds | Check Price |
| 9 | Pet Travel Carrier Bag, Portable Pet Bag by morpilot | 3.8 Pounds | Check Price |
| 10 | Airline Approved Soft Sided Pet Carrier by Mr. Peanut’s | 2.7 Pounds | Check Price |
| 11 | Cat Carrier With Zipper Lock- Foldable Travel Cat Carrier by SportPet | 11.68 Ounces | Check Price |
| 12 | Mobile Pet Bed by Sleepypod | 5 Pounds | Check Price |
| 13 | Dogs Carriers Backpack for Pet Bag by Petsfit | 3.59 Pounds | Check Price |
How to Pick the Top Cat Carrier for Nervous Cats
Picking a cat carrier is one thing and picking one for a nervous cat is another thing. As such, you want to consider several factors before making your purchase including:
Ease of Cleaning
Your kitty is likely to have little bathroom accidents while in their carrier and you do not want to travel with a stinky smell right?
To that effect, you want to get one that is easy to clean. We would therefore advise you to go for a plastic hard carrier with a smooth surface.
This is because such a carrier will not gather grime and can easily be watered and wiped down. In case you go for a soft carrier, ensure that it has removable padding that can be machine-washed.
Carrier Durability
A good carrier should have a stable base that will not sag under your kitty’s weight. Other than that, the carrier should be made from durable material that will not unravel or rip.
Most cat carriers come with windows made from fabric mesh for ventilation but since you want durability, we would rather you pick one with rubberized ones.
This is because rubber can handle any abuse from your cat better.
Ease of Entry and Exit
You should not have a hard time putting your cat into their carrier and getting them out. If this is the case, you make your cat resent the carrier more as they probably get hurt every time you do this.
Ideally, your carrier of choice should have zip-off walls, top entry designs, and multiple entryways as this will make getting in and out easier.
Carrier Size
Consider the size of your cat before picking a carrier for them. If you get one that is too big, your cat will slosh around while traveling and if you get one that is too small, your cat will feel restricted.
The best carrier should be snug and secure enough such that your car can lie down, stand up, and turn around comfortably.
Proper Ventilation
Your kitty needs to breathe while in their carrier. It is therefore important to choose one that comes with enough and proper ventilation.
Aside from allowing your kitty to access fresh air, the ventilation spaces allow you to check in on them and for your cat to look out. This reduces their nervousness.
There are many options when it comes to cat carriers and this may leave you confused and overwhelmed. To help you with that, we have reviewed several top choices to help you make an informed decision.
The Best Cat Carrier for Nervous Cats:
1. Sherpa Travel Deluxe Approved Pet Carrier
The first thing that caught our attention about this carrier is that it is airline approved so if you travel a lot, you may want to consider it.
Last update on 2024-08-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What We Liked About It
This carrier comes in black color so it will not be easy to notice dirt stains. However, what we loved most about it is that it comes with a removable liner that can be machine-washed.
The bag itself can be spot cleaned using water and soap so the cleaning process will not be as hard.
What Could Have Been Better
According to some users, this carrier is made of flimsy material that easily falls apart. We feel that the manufacturer should have used better-quality material to avoid this.
Pros
- Airline approved
- Easy to wash
- Well-ventilated
Cons
- Not as durable
Also Read: Best Food Bowls for English Bulldogs
2. Petmate Two Top Load Door
This is yet another carrier that meets airline specifications. It is also made from durable material so you can rest assured that it will last long.
Last update on 2024-08-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What We Liked About It
You need a comfortable grip while handling your carrier and that is exactly what you get with this unit. Besides, it comes with ventilated sides to facilitate your kitty’s breathing.
We love that this carrier has a top entry door that allows you to easily access your cat.
What Could Have Been Better
Some users have complained that the ventilation holes of this carrier are extremely sharp and injured their cats.
The manufacturer should have fitted the carrier with smoother ventilation holes to avoid this.
Pros
- Safety features
- Easy to assemble
- Sturdy
Cons
- Sharp ventilation holes
3. Sleepypod Pet Carrier
You will not experience fatigue carrying this carrier around, as it is lightweight and compact. Moreover, it has a padded shoulder strap to guarantee your comfort while carrying this bag.
Last update on 2024-08-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What We Liked About It
The top and base of this carrier open to allow you easier access to your kitty. It also has zipper pockets on the sides where you can keep your cat’s essentials.
What we loved most however is that this carrier is built to offer stability and will therefore not fall apart under your cat’s weight.
What Could Have Been Better
This carrier comes with a potent chemical smell that does not fade. The manufacturer should have checked on this before releasing the product to the market.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Sturdy
- Easy to wash
Cons
- Strong chemical smell
4. Petsfit Expandable Pet Carrier
With this pet carrier, your kitty will have ample room to stretch as you travel because it comes with expandable sides.
Last update on 2024-08-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What We Liked About It
Looking at this carrier’s straps, you can see that they are quite wide and what this does is make them sturdier and easy to carry.
We love that the carrier features a sturdy metal frame as well as two zipper openings that allow easier entry and exit of your cat into the carrier.
What Could Have Been Better
According to several users, this unit falls apart quickly. We feel that the manufacturer should have used better-quality material in the construction.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Sturdy
- Expandable
Cons
- Not as durable
5. SturdiBag Large Pet Carrier
Made from 600-denier polyester, this pet carrier is as durable as they come. It also features a feather-light construction so carrying it around will not be a hassle.
Last update on 2024-08-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What We Liked About It
This pet carrier bag comes with foldable flaps that you can open to let your cat enjoy the view or close to give them some privacy.
We love that this piece is spacious enough to ensure that your kitty sleeps and stretches comfortably in there.
What Could Have Been Better
Some users have reported that this carrier falls apart after a while. We feel that the manufacturer should have put more thought into the durability of this unit during construction.
Pros
- Spacious
- Sturdy
- Durable
Cons
- Not as long-lasting
6. AmazonBasics Two-Door Pet Travel Carrier
This pet carrier comes with two-doors that allow you to easily put your cat in and take them out. Better still, the top door opens to the right or left for your convenience.
Last update on 2024-08-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What We Liked About It
We love that this carrier comes with extra screws that you can use to further secure the bottom and the top for your kitty’s security.
Another great thing about this piece is that it is made of durable plastic that is easy to clean as well.
What Could Have Been Better
The latching mechanism of this product hardly stays closed as reported by some users. The manufacturer should have worked on this before launching the product.
Pros
- Sturdy
- Safety features
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Top lid not secure
7. Gen7 Compact Pet Carrier
Irrespective of whether you are spending some time outside with your cat, traveling, or running errands, this carrier offers a safe and secure experience with its smart-level platform.
Last update on 2024-08-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What We Liked About It
You can easily convert this carrier into a backpack for easier transportation. How cool is that? Anyway, it comes with front and top doors for easier access.
The most appealing thing about this carrier however is that comes with an interior safety tether to guarantee your cat’s comfort.
What Could Have Been Better
Although the product description says that this carrier fits a 10-pound pet, some users have complained that it did not fit a mere 6-pound cat.
We feel that the manufacturer should have been truthful about this.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Versatile
- Sturdy
Cons
- Misleading product description
8. OMORC Pet Carrier
Even if your cat is on the heavier side, this carrier comes with a strong frame that prevents the base from sagging. This also means that it will not deform or collapse as is common with other pet carriers.
What We Liked About It
The one thing that we found most appealing when it came to this carrier is that it features two reflective strips to make it more visible during the dark.
Besides, this unit comes with a polyester and suede pad that can be tossed into the washer hence easy to clean.
What Could Have Been Better
Judging from reviews, this carrier has flimsy zippers as users have complained about their pets escaping. The manufacturer should have used stronger zippers to avoid this.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Airline approved
- Easy to use
Cons
- Not as secure
9. Morpilot Pet Travel Bag
If you love going places with your kitty, this carrier bag will come in handy because it is as lightweight as they come.
Last update on 2024-08-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What We Liked About It
Now that we have established that this piece is portable, you probably want to know about its durability. Well, it is made of polyester so you can take it easy there.
We love that this carrier comes in a dark color that conceals stains but when it comes to cleaning the process is easy because the cushion is removable and can be machine or hand-washed.
What Could Have Been Better
Based on several reviews, this carrier is not as stable as some users have complained that the frames do not hold the roof up.
The manufacturer should have used a stronger frame.
Pros
- Value for money
- Lightweight
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Not stable
10. Mr. Peanut’s Soft Sided Airline Approved Pet Carrier
If you are looking for a carrier that will stand the test of time, you should consider this one from MR. Peanut because it is built with durability in mind.
Last update on 2024-08-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What We Liked About It
This soft-sided carrier comes with breathable mesh on the sides to facilitate ventilation. What we loved most is that it comes with padded shoulder straps to guarantee your comfort while carrying.
You will also appreciate that this unit is foldable to allow for easier storage.
What Could Have Been Better
This carrier has stray threads, and the seams are not well stitched. We feel that the manufacturer could have done a better job with that.
Pros
- Sturdy
- Easy to clean
- Thick
Cons
- Poor construction
11. SportPet Designs Cat Carrier
Maybe you do not have much space to store your pet carrier when not in use. You will love that this one is collapsible to make it compact for easier storage.
Last update on 2024-08-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What We Liked About It
As you travel or run your errands, you need a lightweight carrier for your kitty because who wants to experience fatigue?
Anyway, what we loved most about this product is that it comes with an O-ring that secures the carrier’s zippers to prevent your cat from escaping.
What Could Have Been Better
According to some users, this pet carrier is made of flimsy material that easily rips. We feel that the manufacturer should have used better quality material to avoid this.
Pros
- Foldable
- Lightweight
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Not as durable
12. Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed
Travel anywhere with your kitty with this lightweight and compact pet carrier. You will also appreciate that there is no assembly required when it comes to this piece.
Last update on 2024-08-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What We Liked About It
If you are looking for durability, you will love this bed, as it is made from a luggage-grade nylon exterior and ultra-plush polyester interior.
Your kitty will also feel comfortable in this carrier as it features a soft cushion. We love that comes with padded shoulder straps for your comfort as well.
What Could Have Been Better
Some users have reported that the zip of this carrier will not line up properly after gentle use. The manufacturer should have fitted it with a better zipper to avoid this.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Sturdy
- No assembly needed
Cons
- Poor finishing
13. Petsfit Dogs Pet Carriers Backpack
You will love this carrier if you are looking for a comfortable and durable place for your cat while on the go. This is because it is made with high-quality material and fitted with a soft interior.
Last update on 2024-08-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What We Liked About It
Your cat does not have to feel restricted in their carrier and with this one; they can view the outside since it comes with mesh sides. This also allows for proper ventilation.
This backpack carrier is also lightweight and you will find it easy to carry around. We love that about it.
What Could Have Been Better
This unit ripped after several users according to some users. We feel that the manufacturer should have used better-quality material to counter this.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
Cons
- Questionable quality
Frequently Asked Questions
The following are some commonly asked questions when it comes to best carrier cats for nervous cats. It should give you a better understanding of the same.
What can I do to calm my cat down in a carrier?
Remove the carrier’s door, place a towel inside, and food on top of it. Whenever your cat gets close to it, offer them a catnip or a treat. This makes them associate the carrier with good things.
Does my cat prefer a soft or hard carrier?
Generally, cats feel more comfortable in soft carriers because they have more comfortable interiors.
Our Top Pick
After going through all the options our top pick has to be the Sherpa Travel Deluxe Approved Pet Carrier. First, this unit is Airline approved so if you enjoy traveling with your cat, it will be a good pick.
It comes in a dark color that easily conceals stains and when it comes to cleaning, you will find it easy because it comes with a detachable liner that you can simply throw into the washer.
The bag can be spot cleaned as well making cleaning a breeze.
Conclusion
It is normal for your kitty to disappear the moment you bring their carrier out and rightfully so because they probably associate it with negativity and restriction.
Nevertheless, there are cat carriers in the market that can improve your cat’s experience with the same and we have tried to cover them in this review.
This should make it easier for you to pick the perfect one for your cat.
