Cats tend to enjoy an abundance of independence, and travel sometimes isn’t very easy for them. In case of travel, whether for vet visits or any other reason, travel carriers are a must. In this article, we will examine the significance of a cat carrier and what makes it an absolute necessity for transporting cats.
Why Is Using A Cat Carrier Important For Cats During Travel?
A travel carrier for a cat is not only just a means to bring the feline comfort but it also acts as a ‘safe handle’ during transport. Cats feel stressed out in unfamiliar surroundings, especially if it changes their daily habitats. To put it in simpler words, the advantages of using a cat carrier include:
- Protection: It protects your cat from moving around during travel wherein they could be harmed
- Security: It provides a cat with a small familiar space which would ease any anxiety that it may have.
- Ease: It helps in controlling the cat more easily when going to the vet or during an extensive journey.
In case of emergency situations such as an evacuation or natural calamities, a carrier enables the transportation of the cat safely.
Categories of Carriers for Cats
1. Carriers with Hard Sides
The hard-sided carriers are distinct in their ability to sustain an adequate level of protection, are not challenging to clean, and can last longer. The use of such carriers is advisable for nervous cats or any long travel.
Best For: For large cats, nervous travelers for species of cats that require the hardy durable type of carrier.
Drawbacks: Their bulky nature and additional weight sets them apart from other carrier types.
2. Soft-Sided Carriers
Travelers who use short trips and air travel opt for soft-sided carriers which are light and easy to carry around with them, unlike the Sherpa original deluxe airline-approved dog & cat carrier bag.
Best For: Medium-sized and small cats, traveling via air.
Drawbacks: Not advised for use with larger cats or with cats who are likely to scratch the surface.
3. Purse-Shaped Carriers
Cat Carrier Louis Vuitton, which are great for smaller cats, and offer a fashionable yet hidden look that combines practicality and elegance. These carriers are mostly stimulating to pet owners who have constant worries about their cuteness altogether at one moment.
Best For: Short trips for smaller breeds of cats.Â
Drawbacks: Can run short on space and ventilation which can get most uncomfortable.
4. Expandable Carriers
Expandable carriers have sections that you can unzip to add more space. It gives your pet room to stretch or lie down in the course of a long haul.
Best For: Traveling for long distances, is also great for cats who appreciate some extra space.
Drawbacks: When expanded, they can be a little awkward to carry.
5. Soundproof Carriers
These types of carriers are built to counter sound. It makes them perfect for cats that tend to meow a lot or get paranoid due to noise from outside.
Best For: Cats that are too vocal when traveling by any means in public.
Drawbacks: Generally more costly than the regular style carriers.
6. Backpack Carriers
Now these types of carriers are geared more towards hikers or urban adventurers as they enable you to go hands-free for a quick trip out. They can be a bit bulky, but they allow your cat to have proper airflow.
Best For: Cats and their owners that live life to the fullest and turn any trip into an adventure.
Drawbacks: There’s little room for those cats that are larger.
7. Extra-Large Carriers
These are suitable for multiple cats or large-breed cats like Maine coons. They are heavier as well as require more space but there’s still a certain amount of safety that need not be compromised.
Best For: Those that have multiple cats and want to move great distances with them.
Drawbacks: Greater weight and more difficult to carry around.
Cat Carrier vs. Dog Carrier
The following are recommendations that you should consider when selecting a carrier for your cat.
The primary difference between the dog carrier and the cat carrier is that a cat needs security and maximum tight space in the carrier. While for dogs, the carrier can be semi or full-open. Let’s not forget how easily cats tend to escape. That is why you see how dog carriers get rid of the essence of being closed to make it easier for dogs. Conventionally cat carriers tend to be more enclosed with less amount of opening, with openings that are found in dog carriers. Many dog owners will find and argue that there is no turnaround for dog carriers as they only cater to one specific purpose hand in hand perfect with structure.
Carriers are designed with closers that have strong latches to minimize escape. Something dog carriers and dog mamas never have to consider investing in. A feline will always feel enclosed and you will find with ease a cat carrier that is both low in size and wide.
Features to Look for in a Cat Carrier
1. Size and Space
Most of the time, cats will prefer a snug fit but when hunting for a cat carrier try to avoid anything that is too big but in ways that your cat can comfortably lie down or turn around. If your cat is of a large breed where it is over 10 to 12 pounds, do consider getting a carrier that is unlike the rest like a cat carrier large and a cat carrier extra large.
2. Ventilation
Carriers that come with mesh ventilation or holes in between them are always preferred as cat carriers. It makes the possibility of them suffocating or heating from the dominant source which is direct sunlight seem nonexistent.
3. Ease of Cleaning
Traveling always comes with its dismay moments. One thing all pet owners can agree on is that long rides are always bound to come with clean-up duties. Disposed liners that can be washed always make for a good alternative, that is only if you wish for your feline friend to travel in a clean environment.
4. Security Features
Robust locks, clasps, and zippers are required. Cats who have an unquenchable curious inclination can always find weak spots where they can escape out of the carriers.
5. Portability
Think of the way the carrier is going to be lifted up. For instance, some have handles, some have shoulder straps and even some have wheels which will ease transportation. However, for short distances, lightweight carriers serve as the best option.
6. Comfort Features
Providing soft bedding in the interior makes the carrier warm and friendly for your cat. Additionally, keeping their familiar items like a beloved toy or a blanket can aid in alleviating their stress.
Travel Preparation for Your Cat
While most cats don’t enjoy going for a ride, there’s a method to ease them into the experience, especially if they’re unfamiliar with the carrier or a car. Other animals, such as dogs, almost always associate owner-abandonment with being transported, something that should not be done, as it connects the carrier with negative memories. These procedures should be followed to prepare them adequately for transportation.
Familiarize Them With the Carrier
Keep the carrier around the house in the weeks leading up to travel in order to allow your cat to sniff around and get a feel for it. This has proven to be effective in eliminating any fear as the cat becomes accustomed to the item.
Make Moving Collage More Pleasurable
Utilizing shirts or blankets that carry your scent and placing them further inside the carrier can make it less daunting and more welcoming for a feline.
Massage Cat With Tasty Treats
A good way to coax a cat into the carrier is to simply use treats, and once they do, shower them with praise. Alternatively, toys may work too along with rewarding your cat by resting or exploring the inside of the carrier.
Gradually Make the Trips Longer
As cats find car rides pretty strange, begin practicing with short time durations and later extend them to help them fully ease into the new environment.
Best Feline Carriers
1. Petco Cat Carrier
For every cat, Petco has an extensive variety of choices that are not only practical but also affordable.
2. Walmart Pet Carrier Cat
Walmart’s affordable carriers that are easy to find around the neighborhood are perfect for day-to-day usage.
3. Sherpa Cat Carrier
Sherpa cat comforters caught my attention since they are airline-approved. This makes them ideal for frequent travelers.
4. Great Choice Cat Carrier
These carriers satisfy necessities because they are straightforward and long-lasting.
5. Cat Carrier for Louis Vuitton
Encases functionality along with style for individuals looking for an attractive alternative.
Ideas on Long-distance Travel with a Cat
If you own a feline and want to go on long travels with it, it requires some organizing.
Pick an Appropriate Carrier: a carrier that expands or has a fused litter box is a good option for long trips.
Secure the Carriers: Use seat belts or other types of restraints to mitigate motion while traveling in a car.
Stop at Intervals: Cats require breaks so ensure small meals or water is available for your pet.
Essentials: Bring along litter, food, and items to help clean the area in case of an emergency situation.
Addressing Health Concerns
Can Cats Carry Lice?
Cats can carry lice, but these parasites are species-specific and don’t affect humans. Regular grooming and hygiene prevent infestations.
Can Cats Carry Rabies?
Yes, if exposed to infected animals. Ensure your cat is vaccinated to protect against rabies.
Do Cats Carry Lyme Disease?
Cats don’t directly carry Lyme disease but can bring ticks into your home. Use flea and tick prevention measures to protect your cat and household.
Specialty Cat Carriers
Cat Car Carrier
These types of carriers are perfect in situations where you are going for a road trip as they’re able to be strapped with a seat belt.
Cat in the Bag Cat Carrier
This type of carrier is ideal for short trips as the design is tight which prevents cats from escaping while also preventing anxiety.
Long Distance Carriers with Litter Box
This type of carrier is designed for long-distance travel and ensures that the cat is comfortable and clean.
Conclusion
This overall ensures that your cat has a carrier that is easy to use and safe to travel with. From soundproof carriers to luxury options like Louis Vuitton, there’s a carrier for every need. By understanding your cat’s character along with the travel type and necessary features you would be able to make the right decision to assist both you and your cat to have enjoyable trips.
FAQs
Look for a carrier that will allow your cat to sit, stand, and lie with comfort. You will need to take the other cat and its size and also do the same for the carrier.
Hard-sided carriers are much safer and more robust while soft-sided carriers are typically light and easy to travel with. Based on your cat and trip you will have to choose one.
Soothe them with sprays, get them their favorite toy or blanket, and bring the carrier out before the day of travel.
