Cat back packs are becoming more fashionable – thanks in no small part to their appearance in some current pop culture moments.
Bags are backpacks with a transparent ‘window’ that can be used to transport animals – usually cats, but sometimes small dogs.
And they have divided opinions, with some people thinking that they are useful for carrying their pets around with them. However, many believe that they are cruel.
They’re just one of those weird trends that’s gaining support from the public — many of whom have seen celebs using them — but not all of these pet trends are popular with vets.
Here, FEMAIL looks at some of the trends that people are increasingly using for their pets including leads for cats, prams for dogs and slings for dogs…
Cat backpacks
A range of celebrities, who have been seen using the back carrying cat bags. For example, megastar Taylor Swift was seen taking her cat to one of the Miss Americana pageants.
In addition, the cat in a back pack became a motif for the most talked about movie of 2024 – retro spy film Argylle, starring Dua Lipa and Henry Cavill.
Because of the cat motif, celebrities have been seen carrying a model of the animal from the film in a back pack. German model Claudia Schiffer looked typically glam as she attended the world premiere of spy model Argylle in London earlier this month, with a model of the film’s ‘Chip the cat’ in a bag on her back .
In addition, other celebrities are seen and about toting their cats around in carriers, including Queen’s Gambit star Anya Taylor-Joy, and actor Kate Beckinsale is another famous fan of carriers, and shared photos on Instagram of herself carrying beloved moggies Clive and Willow in 2021.
But while all this promotion of bags means more and more people may be tempted to buy into the trend, this is not necessarily a good thing, according to an RSPCA spokesperson.
In fact, they told FEMAIL that they would not recommend that the backpack be used to transport cats.
This, they explain, is because ‘cats naturally hide or try to run away when they feel distressed or scared – but this instinct can be restricted when they are inside these clear bags’.
The spokesperson added that they ‘know that loving cat owners may have the best intentions by wanting their cats to be close to them’.
They added: ‘Although cats love to explore and are naturally inquisitive, they are also territorial by nature meaning they are homely creatures who often feel most secure in their own home and local area.’
Finally, the expert pointed out, these backpacks are ‘usually small, very tight and can interfere with temperature regulation’.
‘We also advise owners to monitor their cats for any signs of stress when introducing them to new or different experiences but this becomes very difficult when cats are traveling behind their owners,’ they concluded.
Cats on leads
Another trend has seen people putting their cats on leads to take them for walks – often in urban environments.
It is often clear to see that the animals are in discomfort (although some seem to enjoy it).
PDSA Vet Lynne James told FEMAIL: ‘Cats are generally quite independent and like to do things on their own accord.
“There are many ways to ensure that an indoor cat has many opportunities to be active and mentally stimulated, without the need” for them to go out for a walk, in the same way you would take a dog out.
‘In general, we would not advise taking your cat on a lead as they lose a sense of ‘control’ when they cannot climb, run or walk as far as they may naturally do when outside and close.’
Dogs in prams
There are various reasons for people using prams for their dogs, many of them cultural.
For example, in Taiwan, dogs in prams are a common sight, a phenomenon that some have attributed to falling birth rates – especially since Taiwan’s birthrate is among the lowest in Asia.
For others, it is changing the perception of how they see their pets, with many seeing them as ‘furry babies’ – which again some link to the declining birthrate.
Some put their dogs in strollers as a fashion statement.
For others, they are used for dogs whose health is declining, which is something supported by a number of veterinarians.
Vet Lynne said: ‘Although most dogs don’t need a pram to get out and about, they can be useful in certain situations, such as if your dog has mobility issues, is in old age or currently recovering from an injury, or an operation.
‘Most dogs would prefer to be on their own four feet if possible, to sniff and experience their surroundings fully, even if the walks are shorter.’
Sling dogs
Known as ‘pooch pouches’, these slings similar to those used for babies are becoming popular with small dogs.
They’re a major trend in the US, and many animal advocates hope the trend doesn’t cross the pond.
PDSA vet Lynne James told FEMAIL: ‘Slings may seem like an easy hands-free way to carry your dog around; however, they are not the most comfortable for your dog.
‘They restrict most natural movement, meaning if your dog is uncomfortable and wants to reposition, they can’t.
‘A spacious dog carrier, with room to move freely is a better idea to ensure your dog is happy and safe.’
