Does your furry friend get anxious every time you mention the word “vet”? Or maybe you’re planning an exciting trip with your cat and want to make sure they travel in comfort and style? Getting your cat from point A to point B can be a real challenge. You want them to feel safe and relaxed, not scared or cramped. That’s where a good soft cat carrier comes in, but finding the perfect one can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.
So many carriers look alike, and it’s hard to know which features actually matter. Should it be breathable? Easy to clean? Does it have enough space for your kitty to stretch? These questions can make choosing a soft cat carrier feel overwhelming. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you navigate through all the options.
In this post, we’ll explore the best soft cat carriers available. We’ll look at what makes a carrier comfortable, safe, and convenient for both you and your cat. By the end, you’ll have a much clearer idea of what to look for and feel confident choosing a carrier that your feline companion will actually enjoy using. Let’s dive in and find the perfect travel buddy for your cat!
Our Top 5 Soft Cat Carrier Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Soft Cat Carrier Detailed Reviews
1. Vceoa 17.5x11x11 Inches Cat
Rating: 8.6/10
Traveling with your furry friend just got a whole lot easier and more comfortable with the Vceoa 17.5x11x11 Inches Pet Carrier. This soft-sided bag is designed for pets up to 16 pounds, offering a safe and cozy space for them to relax, play, and travel. It’s more than just a carrier; it’s also a fabric pet home and a fun toy for your pet!
What We Like:
- Generous size: 17.5” L x 11” W x 11” H provides ample room.
- Airline friendly: Fits under most airline seats, but always check with your airline first.
- Great ventilation: Mesh windows keep your pet cool and comfortable.
- Secure design: Top and side entry with locking zippers keeps your pet safe.
- Multiple carrying options: Use the handles, adjustable shoulder strap, or attach it to your luggage.
- Comfortable interior: Comes with a removable base and a soft, washable fleece bed.
- Dual purpose: Functions as a carrier and a fabric playhouse/toy.
What Could Be Improved:
- Weight vs. Size: While it supports up to 16 lbs, it’s important to measure your pet’s length and height for the best fit.
- Airline regulations vary: You must confirm airline rules before flying.
This Vceoa carrier offers a versatile and comfortable solution for pet transportation and playtime. Its thoughtful design ensures your pet’s safety and comfort on the go.
2. Cat Carrying Case Pet Dog Carrier Soft-Sided Cat Bag Airline Approved
Rating: 9.5/10
Traveling with your furry friend just got easier with this soft-sided pet carrier. Designed for both cats and small dogs up to 15 lbs, this carrier offers comfort and safety on the go. Its airline-approved status means you can bring your pet along on flights, fitting conveniently under most seats. The durable polyester fabric and mesh panels ensure good ventilation and allow you to keep an eye on your pet. Plus, it’s easy to store when not in use.
What We Like:
- It’s airline approved, so you can take your pet on trips easily.
- The carrier is made from strong polyester fabric that lasts.
- It has mesh windows on three sides for plenty of fresh air and to see your pet.
- Safety buckles and sturdy zippers keep your pet secure inside.
- It comes with a soft, removable wool pet bed for comfort.
- The carrier folds flat, making it simple to store.
- It has both a shoulder strap and handles for easy carrying.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s rated for up to 15 lbs, it’s best to check your pet’s exact size (length and height) for the perfect fit.
- The color options might be limited.
This pet carrier is a solid choice for pet owners who travel frequently. It provides a secure and comfortable space for your pet while making your journey smoother.
3. Cat Carrier Bag Large for Travel: 2-in-1 Cat Carrier Soft with Litter Box 34x13x16in Secure The Car Seat for 2 Cats Travelling Design Long Trips Ride
Rating: 9.5/10
Traveling with your feline friends just got a whole lot easier with the Cat Carrier Bag Large for Travel. This innovative 2-in-1 soft carrier is designed for comfort and security, whether you’re taking one cat or two on an adventure. It even includes a hidden litter box feature, making those long trips more manageable.
What We Like:
- 2-in-1 Versatile Design: You can use it as two separate carriers for individual cats or zip them together for one big space.
- Keep Your Cat Close & in Sight: It securely attaches to car seats, either on the passenger seat for one cat or across the back seat for two. This helps your cat feel safe because they can see you.
- Durable Material: Made from tough, scratch-resistant Oxford fabric and breathable mesh. It also has a soft, plush bottom for extra comfort.
- Easy Setup & Use: No complicated assembly needed! Just unbox and it’s ready to go. Connecting and separating the carriers is simple.
- Ideal for Various Uses: Perfect for long trips, hotel stays, camping, vet visits, or even as a cozy spot at home.
- Generous Dimensions: Single carriers are 17″L x 13″W x 16″H, and combined they measure a spacious 34″L x 13″W x 16″H.
- Secure for Travel: It’s designed to keep your cats safe and secure during car rides.
What Could Be Improved:
- Weight Limit: The maximum weight capacity is under 35 lbs, which might not be suitable for very large cats.
- Litter Box Integration: While it has a litter box feature, its effectiveness and ease of cleaning might vary for different users.
This carrier offers a flexible and comfortable solution for traveling with your cats. It’s a great option for making journeys less stressful for both you and your pets.
4. Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier For Small / Medium Cats Dogs Puppies (Up To 15lbs)
Rating: 9.5/10
Take your furry friend on your next adventure with the Henkelion Cat and Dog Carrier. This soft-sided carrier is designed for small to medium pets up to 15 pounds, making it perfect for trips to the vet, visits to friends, or even airline travel. Its grey color adds a touch of style to your travels.
What We Like:
- The carrier is TSA airline approved, so you can fly with your pet!
- It has loop handles that let you carry it evenly. You can also use them as a seat belt or luggage strap.
- An adjustable shoulder strap makes carrying easy and hands-free. This keeps your pet safe and your hands free.
- The carrier is made of strong, light polyester fabric.
- Four mesh sides offer good airflow and let you see your pet easily.
- It’s portable and foldable, making it simple to store when not in use.
- The padded shoulder strap and handles add extra comfort for you.
- It fits pets up to 15 lbs and with dimensions smaller than 15″ x 9″ x 9″. Always check your pet’s length and height.
- The carrier is waterproof, protecting your pet and belongings from spills.
What Could Be Improved:
- The weight limit of 15 lbs might exclude some medium-sized pets.
- While the dimensions are listed for the carrier itself, the maximum airline dimensions are a separate consideration.
- The product description could be clearer about the exact internal dimensions.
This Henkelion carrier offers a safe and convenient way to travel with your pet. It’s a great option for pet owners who want peace of mind on the go.
5. Vceoa 19x12x12 Inches Cat
Rating: 9.1/10
The Vceoa 19x12x12 Inches Cat, Dog Carrier offers a comfy and safe space for your furry friend. It’s designed to be a versatile travel bag, but it also doubles as a fun “fabric pet home” for your pet to play and relax in. This carrier is a good option for small to medium-sized pets who need a secure place during trips or just around the house.
What We Like:
- Generous size (19” L x 12” W x 12” H) is good for many small pets.
- It has mesh windows for fresh air, keeping your pet comfortable.
- Top and side openings with secure zippers make it easy to get your pet in and out.
- The carrier has strong carrying handles and an adjustable shoulder strap.
- The strap can also be used as a seatbelt, adding safety during car rides.
- A back strap lets you attach the carrier to your luggage.
- It comes with a removable base for a stable floor.
- The soft, washable fleece pet bed makes it a cozy spot for naps.
- It’s marketed as a “Toy of Fabric Pet Home” for pets to enjoy.
What Could Be Improved:
- It is not approved for airline travel, so check with your airline first.
- You should measure your pet’s length and height, not just rely on weight, to ensure a good fit.
This Vceoa carrier is a practical choice for pet owners who want a multi-functional item. It provides comfort and security for your pet, whether you are traveling or just need a special spot for them at home.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: A Purrfect Choice for Your Feline Friend
Bringing your cat from one place to another shouldn’t be a stressful event for either of you. A soft cat carrier can make a world of difference! Unlike hard plastic crates, these carriers offer a cozier and more familiar environment for your furry companion. This guide will help you find the best soft cat carrier for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a soft cat carrier, several features stand out. These are the things that make a carrier comfortable, safe, and easy to use.
Comfort and Security
- Ventilation: Good airflow is crucial. Look for carriers with mesh panels on multiple sides. This lets your cat see out and get fresh air. It also helps you keep an eye on them.
- Padding: A soft, removable cushion at the bottom makes the carrier more comfortable. Your cat will have a cozy place to rest.
- Secure Closures: Zippers and latches need to be strong. They should keep your cat safely inside. Double zippers are a great feature. They allow you to open the carrier from either end.
- Interior Leash Clip: This is a vital safety feature. It attaches to your cat’s harness. It stops them from jumping out if you open the carrier door.
Ease of Use for You
- Multiple Entry Points: Some carriers open from the top or the front. This makes it easier to get a reluctant cat inside.
- Carrying Options: Look for padded shoulder straps and sturdy top handles. This makes carrying your cat more comfortable for you, especially on longer trips.
- Collapsible Design: Many soft carriers fold flat. This makes them easy to store when not in use.
- Pockets: Extra pockets are handy for storing treats, toys, or important documents.
Important Materials
The materials used in a soft cat carrier impact its durability, comfort, and how easy it is to clean.
- Durable Fabric: Most soft carriers are made from strong, woven fabrics like polyester or nylon. These materials resist tears and wear. They can also handle some scratching.
- Mesh: Strong mesh panels are usually made of nylon or polyester. They offer ventilation and visibility without compromising security.
- Water-Resistant Lining: Some carriers have a water-resistant lining. This is helpful if your cat has an accident. It also makes cleaning up spills easier.
- Soft Padding: The cushioning inside is usually made of foam or plush fabric. This adds comfort for your cat.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several factors can tell you if a soft cat carrier is well-made or not.
What Makes a Carrier Great:
- Sturdy Stitching: Look for neat, strong stitching. This shows the carrier is built to last.
- Reinforced Stress Points: Areas like handle attachments and zipper seams should be extra strong.
- Good Quality Zippers: Smooth-gliding, durable zippers are a sign of quality. They won’t snag or break easily.
- Rigid Frame (Subtle): While it’s a “soft” carrier, some have a light internal frame. This helps the carrier keep its shape. This makes it easier to put your cat inside.
What to Watch Out For:
- Flimsy Fabric: Thin, easily torn material is a red flag.
- Weak Zippers: Zippers that stick or feel cheap might break.
- Poor Stitching: Loose threads or uneven seams suggest the carrier won’t hold up well.
- Lack of Structure: A carrier that collapses too easily can be hard to use and uncomfortable for your cat.
User Experience and Use Cases
A good soft cat carrier makes your life easier and your cat happier.
- Vet Visits: These are common trips. A comfortable carrier reduces anxiety for your cat.
- Travel: Whether by car, train, or even plane (check airline rules!), a soft carrier is often preferred. They are lighter and more compact than hard crates.
- Moving: Moving is stressful. A familiar, soft carrier can provide a sense of security for your cat in a new environment.
- Temporary Containment: Sometimes you need to keep your cat safely contained. This might be for guests or during home repairs.
The best soft cat carriers offer a balance of comfort for your pet and convenience for you. They provide a secure, cozy space that makes travel and transitions much smoother.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main benefits of a soft cat carrier over a hard one?
A: Soft carriers are generally lighter and more comfortable for cats. They often feel more like a cozy bed. They are also easier to store because many can fold flat.
Q: How do I get my cat to go into the carrier willingly?
A: Leave the carrier out with the door open for a few days. Put treats or a favorite toy inside. Make it a positive place, not just for vet visits.
Q: Are soft cat carriers safe for air travel?
A: Many soft carriers are airline-approved for in-cabin travel. Always check the specific airline’s size and weight restrictions before you fly.
Q: How do I clean a soft cat carrier?
A: Most soft carriers have removable, washable liners. The fabric exterior can usually be wiped down with a damp cloth and mild soap. Always check the care instructions.
Q: What size carrier should I get for my cat?
A: Your cat should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside. Measure your cat from nose to tail and from the floor to the top of their head for reference.
Q: Can I use a soft carrier for a very active or anxious cat?
A: Yes, the comfort and familiar feel of a soft carrier can be very helpful for anxious cats. Ensure it has good ventilation and a secure interior leash clip for active pets.
Q: How important is ventilation in a soft cat carrier?
A: Ventilation is very important! Good airflow keeps your cat from overheating and allows them to see out, which can reduce stress.
Q: What if my cat scratches the carrier?
A: Look for carriers made from durable, scratch-resistant materials like tightly woven polyester or nylon. Reinforced seams also help.
Q: Can I use a soft carrier for more than one cat?
A: It’s generally not recommended to put multiple cats in one carrier unless they are very small kittens or have a proven history of traveling together peacefully. It can cause stress and conflict.
Q: How long will a good quality soft cat carrier last?
A: A well-made soft cat carrier, made from durable materials with strong stitching, can last for many years with proper care.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Mallory Crusta, the heart and mind behind LovelyPetSpot.com.. As a passionate pet enthusiast, I created this space to share my experiences, expertise, and love for all things pets. Whether it’s helpful tips, heartfelt stories, or advice for pet parents, my mission is to make the journey of caring for your furry, feathery, or scaly friends as joyful and fulfilling as possible. Join me in celebrating the incredible bond we share with our animal companions!