If you’ve never owned a cat carrier before, you might think they’re all the same, but there are actually tons of different options to choose from. From soft-sided cat carriers to more durable hard-sided ones, there’s definitely one made for you and your feline friend. But which one is best for you? We decided to find out, testing out a variety of cat carriers so you don’t have to.
Read on to learn more about the best cat hard sided carriers.
Our Editor’s Best Cat Hard Sided Carriers Reviews
- Hard sided pet carrier with 2 doors for front and top entry; suitable for cat or medium size dog weighing 12 - 20 pounds
- Durable plastic construction with steel wire doors; screws keep the top and bottom sections securely connected
- Spring load latches ensure easy one-handed door opening and closing; top door swings open to the left or right and includes a top carry handle
- Plenty of air ventilation on the sides, top, and back of the carrier
- Note: Be sure to measure the size of the pet when choosing carrier size
- Hard sided pet carrier with 2 doors for front and top entry; suitable for cat or extra-small dog breeds, such as chihuahuas and toy poodles (up to 11 pounds)
- Durable plastic construction with steel wire front door; screws keep the top and bottom sections securely connected
- Top door can swing open to the left or right for easy access and convenience
- Plenty of ventilation on sides, top, and back of the carrier
- Note: Be sure to measure the size of the pet when choosing carrier size
- Hard sided pet carrier with 1 door for front entry; suitable for a cat, dog, or other small pet
- Durable molded plastic construction; locking door mechanism for secure closure
- Top handle for easy carrying
- Metal wire door and side panels provide ventilation
- Product Dimensions: 23.6 x 15.7 x 13 inches (LxWxH)
- Hard-Sided Travel Pet Carrier: Designed to meet airline requirements, this durable pet carrier features robust plastic construction for enhanced strength and security. Ideal for quick trips to the vet, pet store, or other errands, it's perfect for small dogs and pets weighing up to 10 lbs.
- Sturdy and Robust Cat Carrier: Featuring a tough PP shell and reinforced steel wire, this construction offers both lightweight durability and superior ventilation. It’s easy to carry, impact-resistant, and ensures your pet remains comfortable with ample airflow during the journey.
- Dual-Door Access: Features both front and top entry options to simplify loading and unloading, especially for pets that are uneasy about confined spaces. This dual-entry design also improves emergency access, ensuring your pet's safety and comfort during the trip.
- 360-Degree Ventilation: Improves airflow to keep your pet well-ventilated and comfortable throughout the journey. This thorough ventilation system of pet travel carrier also helps alleviate pet anxiety by offering a clear view of the surroundings, making travel less stressful.
- Slide-Out Tray: Offers a simple and efficient solution for cleaning up messes or spills, helping to reduce odors and maintain a comfortable environment for your pet. Its slide-out design enables quick removal and replacement, minimizing disruption to your pet. Easy to remove and clean.
- Ready for Every Little Adventure: Whether it’s a quick trip to the vet, the pet store, or the park, this hard-sided travel carrier keeps your furry friend safe and comfortable on the go
- Sized for Small Pets You Love: Designed for cats or tiny dog breeds up to 10 lbs; carrier interior measures 17.91 x 11.5 x 12 inches, just right for cozy rides
- Easy to Clean & Carry: Durable polypropylene shell wipes clean in seconds, and the built-in handle means you can grab it and go without a second thought
- Breathe Easy, Ride Happy: Ventilated sides and a wide-wire door give your pet plenty of fresh air and visibility so they can stay cool and curious while traveling
- Quick Setup, No Stress: Patented 5-step assembly snaps together in minutes—no tools, no fuss; door can open either direction to make loading your pet simple and stress-free
- SECURE AND COZY DEN: The Petmate One-Door portable dog crate provides easy access with a front-loading door, offering a safe and comfortable space for your pet's natural denning instincts.
- AIRLINE-APPROVED: This small dog carrier airline approved meets most airline cargo specs. Ventilation holes provide fresh air and 360-degree visibility for your pet
- IDEAL FOR SMALL PETS: Designed as a puppy carrier for small dogs 0-15 lbs, the 19-inch crate offers room for pets to stand, turn, and lie comfortably; with space for a cushion to enhance comfort"
- EASY ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE: The plastic dog crate shell is simple to clean; a stay-dry moat directs fluids away from pets
- CONVENIENT: Featuring steel doors with easy-squeeze latches and a foldable handle, this USA-made pet carrier for dogs & cats provides a less stressful travel experience.
- Ready for Every Little Adventure: Whether it’s a quick trip to the vet, the pet store, or the park, this hard-sided travel carrier keeps your furry friend safe and comfortable on the go
- Sized for Small Pets You Love: Designed for cats or extra-small dog breeds up to 15 lbs; carrier interior measures 20.7 x 13.22 x 14.09 inches, just right for cozy rides
- Easy to Clean & Carry: Durable polypropylene shell wipes clean in seconds, and the built-in handle means you can grab it and go without a second thought
- Breathe Easy, Ride Happy: Ventilated sides and a wide-wire door give your pet plenty of fresh air and visibility so they can stay cool and curious while traveling
- Quick Setup, No Stress: Patented 5-step assembly snaps together in minutes—no tools, no fuss; door can open either direction to make loading your pet simple and stress-free
- Ready for Every Little Adventure: Whether it’s a quick trip to the vet, the pet store, or the park, this hard-sided travel carrier keeps your furry friend safe and comfortable on the go
- Sized for Small Pets You Love: Designed for cats or tiny dog breeds up to 10 lbs; carrier interior measures 17.91 x 11.5 x 12 inches, just right for cozy rides
- Easy to Clean & Carry: Durable polypropylene shell wipes clean in seconds, and the built-in handle means you can grab it and go without a second thought
- Breathe Easy, Ride Happy: Ventilated sides and a wide-wire door give your pet plenty of fresh air and visibility so they can stay cool and curious while traveling
- Quick Setup, No Stress: Patented 5-step assembly snaps together in minutes—no tools, no fuss; door can open either direction to make loading your pet simple and stress-free
- SECURE AND COZY DEN: The Petmate Two-Door portable dog crate provides easy access with top or front-loading doors, offering a safe and comfortable space for your pet's natural denning instincts
- AIRLINE-APPROVED: This small dog carrier airline approved meets most airline cargo specs. Ventilation holes provide fresh air and 360-degree visibility for your pet
- IDEAL FOR SMALL PETS: Designed as a puppy carrier for small dogs 0-15 lbs, the 24-inch crate offers room for pets to stand, turn, and lie comfortably; with space for a cushion to enhance comfort
- EASY ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE: The plastic dog crate shell is simple to clean; a stay-dry moat directs fluids away from pets
- CONVENIENT: Featuring steel doors with easy-squeeze latches and a foldable handle, this USA-made pet carrier for dogs & cats provides a less stressful travel experience
- Hard-Sided Travel Pet Carrier: Designed to meet airline requirements, this durable pet carrier features robust plastic construction for enhanced strength and security. Ideal for quick trips to the vet, pet store, or other errands, it's perfect for small dogs and pets weighing up to 22 lbs.
- Sturdy and Robust Cat Carrier: Featuring a tough PP shell and reinforced steel wire, this construction offers both lightweight durability and superior ventilation. It’s easy to carry, impact-resistant, and ensures your pet remains comfortable with ample airflow during the journey.
- Dual-Door Access: Features both front and top entry options to simplify loading and unloading, especially for pets that are uneasy about confined spaces. This dual-entry design also improves emergency access, ensuring your pet's safety and comfort during the trip.
- 360-Degree Ventilation: Improves airflow to keep your pet well-ventilated and comfortable throughout the journey. This thorough ventilation system of pet travel carrier also helps alleviate pet anxiety by offering a clear view of the surroundings, making travel less stressful.
- Slide-Out Tray: Offers a simple and efficient solution for cleaning up messes or spills, helping to reduce odors and maintain a comfortable environment for your pet. Its slide-out design enables quick removal and replacement, minimizing disruption to your pet. Easy to remove and clean.
Best Cat Hard Sided Carriers Buying Guide
Before choosing the best cat hard sided carrier you should consider following options:
1. Your pet’s size: The first thing you should consider when choosing a hard-sided carrier is your pet’s size.
Most hard-sided carriers are designed for pets weighing 15 to 20 pounds, but you can find some for larger pets.
If you have a very small breed, look for a carrier that is specifically designed for smaller breeds, such as a dog or cat carrier from Airpan.
2. Your pet’s needs: There are a number of different types of carriers available to choose from and each serves a different function. For example, airline approved carriers are specifically designed to be easily stowed away in the overhead compartment of an airplane.
If you plan to travel by plane with your pet often, then this type of carrier is a must have.
If you have a cat that likes to look out the window while you drive, then a carrier with a top and side opening is a must have.
3. Your budget: You can find hard-sided carriers in a variety of price points.
If you want a premium carrier made from the highest quality materials, then you can expect to pay anywhere from $30 to $150 for a new carrier.
If you prefer to save money, then you can always look for a used carrier for sale. Just make sure the carrier is in good condition before you make the purchase.
4. The number of pets you want to carry: If you want to be able to carry more than one pet at a time, then you should look for a carrier that has two doors.
Not only does this make the carrier easier for your pet to enter and exit the carrier, but it also allows you to easily carry two pets at the same time.
5. Your travel plans: There are some carriers that are specifically designed for flying, while others are made for driving.
If you plan on traveling with your pet by plane, then it is a good idea to purchase a carrier that is specifically designed to be stowed away in the overhead compartment of an airplane.
6. The experience of your pet: Some carriers are easier for pets to enter and exit than others. If you have a pet that is afraid of the carrier, then you may want to purchase a carrier with an opening on the top.
This allows your pet to feel safe while looking around without having to enter the carrier.
What else you should know about cat hard sided carriers
1. What are the benefits of using a hard sided carrier for my cat?
The benefits of using a hard sided carrier for your cat include the following:
1. It provides a safe and secure space for your cat to travel in.
2. It protects your cat from the elements, including wind, rain, and snow.
3. It keeps your cat contained, which can be important if you have a rambunctious or curious cat.
4. It is easy to clean and maintain.
2. What are some of the best hard sided carriers on the market?
Some of the best hard sided carriers on the market include the Petmate Sky Kennel, the Aspen Pet Porter, and the Petmate Vari Kennel.
3. How do I choose the right size carrier for my cat?
There is no definitive answer, as the ideal carrier size for your cat may depend on a number of factors, such as your cat’s size, weight, and activity level. However, as a general rule of thumb, it is typically best to choose a carrier that is large enough to allow your cat to stand up and turn around comfortably.
4. What are some tips for using a hard sided carrier with my cat?
Some tips for using a hard sided carrier with a cat are to get the carrier big enough so the cat can move around a little bit, to put a towel or blanket in the carrier for the cat to lie on, and to put the carrier in a calm and quiet place.
5. What are some things to consider when travelling with my cat in a hard sided carrier?
Some things to consider when travelling with your cat in a hard sided carrier include:
-Ensuring that the carrier is big enough for your cat to move around comfortably in, but not so big that they can escape
-Packing some of your cat’s favorite toys or blankets to help them feel more at home in the carrier
-Making sure the carrier is well-ventilated so that your cat doesn’t overheat
-Labeling the carrier with your contact information in case it gets lost during travel
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best cat hard sided carriers. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best cat hard sided carriers will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.