Hi, I’m Dr. Lauren! Read my introduction to learn more about me and my two adventurous cats, Pancake and Tiller.
Alright, I’ll just say it. Size matters.
When it comes to cat carriers, that is.
Cat carriers are the bane of many cat owners’ existence…and one of the most common reasons people miss their vet appointments (“I can’t get him into the carrier! He scratched me and then ran away”). I’ve literally had people chase their cat around the house for hours before an appointment, and I promise, no one benefits from that situation!
Think for a moment: you drink coffee in the morning, maybe your bran flakes…and whoosh! Someone runs into the kitchen, throws you into a giant box, knocks you down, takes you to something scary and makes a lot of noise and you can’t stand because it keeps moving and you feel sick, you hear strange people talking, barking the dogs…and suddenly you’re thrown out of this box, and your gynecologist, your internist, your cardiologist, your dentist, your urologist, your gastroenterologist, your proctologist, your podiatrist, your dermatologist are waiting… and you are at their mercy. You might be a little grumpy that your coffee ritual has been interrupted, too.
Remember, it’s not all that different for a cat. It may make a strong point, but it’s not different.
What Can You Do About It?
Glad you asked!
There are some general rules of thumb when it comes to cat carriers. And remember, these are simple rules of thumb. If a carrier is to a cat as a car is to a person: remember that Not everyone likes the same style of car. Neither should a cat.
Rules of Thumb For Cat Carriers
- Most cats prefer a size that is large enough for them to stand, turn around easily, and sit comfortably upright.
- It should be hard-sided, or able to hold its shape (eg not collapse) when the door is opened
- Speaking of doors, at least 2 entry/exit points. So a door and the top can easily be removed, or a door and the top opens, or a front and top door
- At least one, ideally both, entry points need to be larger than your cat. This prevents shoulders and feet from getting stuck easily, and therefore getting cats in and out of carriers from being a nightmare.
- Carrier beds (the convertibles of the cat carrier world!) are evolving rapidly- and many cats really like them. Some have been crash-tested, as linked here.
- Bubble backpacks have been getting a lot of flack, lately. On the one hand, they’re trendy…but behaviorists think cats hate them. I haven’t got a cat to give me a definitive answer, but I have seen cat training in big European cities… where most people bring their cats to appointments from their homes , anywhere from a few blocks to many blocks. In these cases, the cat is high, they are a little more soundproof, the cat is a little visible but still able to hide… Not saying that these carriers are perfect, but they are probably better than the traditional carrier at the level of dog, with a lot of noise and smell that is steaming.
- Dog crates can be good for large breeds like Maine Coons and Bengals. However, you may want to add wheels. I’ve even seen them enter the red flyer wagons before!
- When all else fails: pillowcases are a great emergency carrier for a cat!
With the Carrier
One of the tricky parts about a carrier is its usage. It’s such a simple thing, which can get complicated when you add one ingredient: the cat.
Actually, putting your cat’s head in a carrier is rare. They are masters at wriggling out. If you’re going to go this route, do it with confidence, and don’t hesitate. Generally, you get one chance to correct it.
I prefer the tip method:
- Place the carrier on its end, and have someone hold it for stability.
- Cup your cat’s bottom, and slide them into the carrier first.
- This is generally done before your cat knows what’s going on, and is less stressful than trying to get an unwilling cat’s head into the carrier.
- When it doesn’t work, the most common reason is that the door of the carrier is too narrow: their butt and shoulders almost touch the sides, so it’s easy for them to slip out while you’re trying to put the cat inside.
Final Thoughts About Cat Carriers
Teach cats at an early age to see the carrier as a common object. Allow them treats in the carrier, and let them sleep regularly- even if you just leave the front door for easy access. Don’t just take it out the day you want to use it!
Keep the carrier clean, when not in use. Cats can vomit, urinate, defecate, and shed inside the carrier while traveling- clean it after use. Would you want to get in a car with months old dirt, and expect it to be a fun ride? Pheromone sprays and wipes can also be used to further reduce travel stress. Also put some food, and a favorite toy or blanket.
Treat carriers a little like your car, because, essentially, to a cat, that’s what they are. If they are broken, fix them. Keep them clean, tidy, and ready for daily use. Sometimes, the new fads have some bells and whistles that really work, and look very stylish. And sometimes, the old-fashioned ones do it best. Regardless, a carrier is essential for cat ownership—just go with what works for you, and your cat.
