The 6 Best Top Load Cat Carriers

Last updated: 11th Dec 2023

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Top-notch cat carriers are adept at making moving a spirited feline from one location to another considerably more peaceful. Whether your destination is the veterinarian's office or an upcoming flight, a thoughtfully crafted carrier should encompass several crucial elements for the ease and well-being of your cat and yourself.

Within this guide, we present our favored top-load cat carrier options.

Credit: Amazon

Wild One Travel Cat Carrier Bag

First on our list of best cat carriers is this bag from Wild One. This lightweight and smaller-sized bag is packed with clever travel features. With breathable mesh walls, a dual-use leash/shoulder strap, and an interior cushion that folds out to become a cozy bed, this airline-compliant carrier is the home away from home your cat deserves. It is not recommended for dogs over 16 lbs (7 kg) or cats.

Pros:

1. Stylish Design: The carrier bag boasts a sleek and stylish design, blending fashion with functionality.

2. Comfortable for Cats: It's designed to be comfortable for cats, with ample space and ventilation, allowing them to feel at ease during travel.

3. Durable Materials: Made from durable and quality materials, ensuring longevity and reliability for frequent use.

4. Easy to Clean: The carrier bag is typically easy to clean, which is convenient for maintaining hygiene.

5. Functional Features: Often includes features like a removable cushion, multiple access points, and sturdy straps for easy transport.

Cons:

1. Size Limitation: Might not be suitable for larger cats or multiple cats due to its size limitations.

2. Limited Ventilation: Some users might find that the ventilation could be improved for better airflow.

3. Pricing: It might be more expensive compared to some other standard carrier options on the market.

4. Minimal Storage: Might lack additional pockets or compartments for storing essentials during travel.

5. Limited Color/Design Options: Might offer limited choices in color or design, which might not suit all preferences or home aesthetics.

Credit: Amazon

Sherpa Original Deluxe Cat and Dog Carrier

Travel in comfort and style with Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier. Airline Approved, excellent for traveling by plane or car, for a trip, or just to the vet. The patented spring wire frame allows the rear of the carrier to be pushed down, serving to under-seat requirements.

Carrier’s mesh panels offer ventilation locking zippers for safety. The seat belt safety strap doubles as a luggage strap. Top and side entry makes it easier to load pets comfortably. Large side zippered pocket holds your essential pet travel needs. The no-slip shoulder strap is adaptable with a padded support for comfort.

Pros:

1. Airline Approved: Typically meets airline requirements for in-cabin travel, making it suitable for air travel with your pet.

2. Comfortable Interior: Features a cozy, plush interior with a removable machine-washable liner, ensuring comfort and easy cleaning.

3. Sturdy Construction: Made from durable materials with mesh panels for ventilation and visibility, ensuring your pet's safety and comfort.

4. Convenient Features: Often includes a padded shoulder strap, seatbelt/luggage strap, and storage pockets for added convenience during travel.

5. Variety of Sizes: Available in various sizes, catering to different pet sizes and breeds.

Cons:

1. Sizing Limitation: Some users might find the sizing guidelines not fitting precisely for larger or specific breeds of cats or dogs.

2. Structure Rigidity: The carrier might lack some structural rigidity when not fully packed or when it's not carrying a pet.

3. Zipper Durability: Concerns about zipper durability have been raised by some users over extended use.

4. Bulkiness When Empty: When not in use, the carrier might be a bit bulky due to its structured design.

5. Limited Color Choices: Might offer limited color options, which may not suit everyone's preferences.

Credit: Chewy

Frisco Two Door Top Load Dog & Cat Kennel

The perfect crate for journeys, this kennel offers a two-door, top-loading design that prioritizes safety and comfort. It's available in two sizes, catering to smaller pets.

Thanks to the reliable spring-loaded latches, the wire mesh front and top doors give your pet easy access while ensuring they remain secure during travel. Each kennel side features numerous ventilation holes, facilitating fresh air circulation. These kennels have robust, collapsible handles for easy and safe transport.

Assembly and disassembly are hassle-free; for added convenience, one half neatly fits inside the other for storage. The two halves securely fasten together using wing nuts and bolts along the rim.

Pros:

1. Dual Entry: Features two doors, allowing easy access to your pet from the top or front, making it versatile for various situations.

2. Portable Design: Lightweight and easy to carry, making it convenient for travel and vet visits.

3. Sturdy Construction: Typically made of durable plastic, providing security and durability for your pet.

4. Ventilation and Visibility: Offers good ventilation with plenty of openings, ensuring proper airflow and visibility for your pet.

5. Secure Latching: Secure latch closures on the doors to prevent accidental escape.

Cons:

1. Limited Size Options: Might not accommodate large cats comfortably, limiting options for bigger breeds or multiple pets.

2. Assembly Difficulty: Some users might find assembly or disassembly challenging due to the design.

3. Latch Durability: Concerns about latch durability over time have been raised by a few users.

4. Handle Sturdiness: The handle might feel a bit flimsy to some users, especially when carrying heavier pets.

5. Aesthetic Variety: Limited color or design options might not cater to specific preferences or home aesthetics.

Credit: Amazon

Petmate Two-Door Top Load Cat Carrier

Easy access and versatility are enhanced with the inclusion of multiple doors.

A robust combination of steel wire and plastic materials ensures your pet's safety.

Your small companion can travel in style, thanks to the modern design.

The heavy-duty, ergonomic carry handle facilitates safer pet transport.

These kennels are available in two sizes, suitable for accommodating pets weighing between 5 and 20 pounds.

Pros:

1. Dual Entry: Offers two doors for convenient access, making it easy to get cat in and out.

2. Secure and Sturdy: Generally made of durable plastic with secure latch closures, ensuring safety and security during travel.

3. Ventilation and Visibility: Features ample ventilation holes and openings, providing adequate airflow and visibility for your pet.

4. Comfortable Interior: Often includes a comfortable and easy-to-clean interior for your pet's comfort.

5. Variety of Sizes: Available in various sizes, accommodating different cat sizes and breeds.

Cons:

1. Handle Durability: Some users have reported concerns about the handle's sturdiness, especially when carrying heavier pets.

2. Assembly Difficulty: Assembly or disassembly might be challenging for some users due to the carrier's design.

3. Limited Color Choices: Might have limited color or design options, limiting personal preferences.

4. Size Constraints: Might not be spacious enough for larger cats or multiple cats.

5. Latch Issues: Occasional concerns about latch durability have been reported by a few users over time.

Credit: Amazon

Mr. Peanut's Gold Series Expandable Pet Carrier

Introducing Mr. Peanut's Gold Series Pet Carrier, a brand renowned for its versatile and top-quality carriers. This specific model, priced affordably at under $100, caters to the comprehensive needs of cat parents.

Crafted from durable, water-resistant nylon fabric and featuring metal hardware, top and front entryways, this carrier assures reliability. To ensure your cat's comfort, it has a removable bed, a structured plywood base, and ample mesh for ventilation and visibility. A privacy flap is readily available for cats prone to stress to unroll and cover the mesh windows.

Cat parents will find the added convenience of seatbelt, luggage compatibility, and the flexibility of choosing between tote handles or the padded shoulder strap for carrying. Safety is paramount, as evidenced by the interior safety tether and self-locking zippers, reflecting the brand's commitment to the well-being of your feline companion.

Pros:

1. Expandable Design: Offers expandable sides to provide extra space for your pet to move comfortably.

2. Sturdy Construction: Typically made with durable materials, ensuring longevity and security for your pet.

3. Comfortable Interior: Often includes a cozy and padded interior with washable liners for your pet's comfort.

4. Ventilation and Visibility: Provides ample mesh panels for ventilation and visibility, ensuring proper airflow and allowing your pet to see outside.

5. Convenient Features: Might include features like padded shoulder straps, seatbelt straps, and side pockets for added convenience during travel.

Cons:

1. Size Limitations: When collapsed, might not offer as much space as expected, limiting comfort for larger pets.

2. Zipper Durability: Concerns about zipper durability over extended use have been reported by some users.

3. Folding Difficulty: Some users might find folding or collapsing the carrier a bit challenging due to its expandable design.

4. Handle Sturdiness: The handle might feel a bit flimsy to some users, especially when carrying heavier pets.

5. Limited Color Options: Might offer limited color choices, limiting personal preferences.

Credit: Amazon

Gen7Pets Geometric Roller with Smart-Level Dog & Cat Carrier Backpack, Red, Up to 20-lbs

The Geometric Roller-Carrier is a game-changer for hassle-free cat travel, offering two convenient modes: wear it on your back or roll it by your side. While some may find the backpack a bit bulky, its dimensions, shape, and adaptability make it exceptionally well-suited for frequent travelers.

This robust carrier boasts two front-loading doors, zippered side pockets, a top handle for quick lifting, and four sturdy bottom wheels. The interior features soft, machine-washable sherpa mats that attach with velcro to the base and back.

When in backpack mode, the carrier has two adjustable shoulder straps that clip onto D-rings at the lower back. Converting it to rolling mode is a breeze, taking just a few seconds. I found it as comfortable on my back as the other backpack carriers I tested. The padded straps were easy to adjust and maintained stability without bouncing against my lower back.

Pros:

1. Rolling Backpack Design: Features a versatile design that can be used as a rolling carrier or converted into a backpack for convenient transport.

2. Smart-Level Platform: Includes a smart-level platform that keeps your cat level while traveling, ensuring their comfort.

3. Ample Space: Provides enough space for pets up to 20 lbs, allowing them to move comfortably.

4. Ventilation and Visibility: Mesh panels offer proper ventilation and visibility for your pet.

5. Durable Construction: Generally made of durable materials, ensuring longevity and security for your pet.

Cons:

1. Limited Weight Capacity: The carrier is designed for pets up to 20 lbs, limiting suitability for larger pets.

2. Handle Durability: Some users have reported concerns about the durability of the handle, particularly when carrying heavier pets.

3. Complexity in Converting: Converting the carrier from roller to backpack might be slightly complex for some users.

4. Storage Limitations: Might lack additional pockets or compartments for storing essentials during travel.

5. Limited Color Options: Might offer limited color choices, limiting personal preferences.

FAQs

How do I help my pet adjust to a travel carrier?

Begin by introducing the pet carrier into your home and allowing your pet to become familiar. Please encourage them to enter it and even sleep inside. Another practical step is to take your pet on short car rides while in the carrier, gradually extending the duration with each trip. And remember, not all rides have to end at the vet's; reward your pet with treats to create positive associations. Enhance the carrier's appeal by lining it with your pet's favorite blanket or toy, making it a more inviting and comfortable space.

How much ventilation should a carrier have?

In the case of soft-sided carriers, Wolko recommends ensuring mesh ventilation is present on at least three sides of the bag. Airlines typically mandate ventilation on all four sides for carriers used in the cargo hold.

How long can a pet remain in a carrier?

It is generally safe for most pets to stay within an in-cabin travel carrier for six to eight hours, provided the carrier is appropriately sized for your pet. Dogs traveling in the cargo hold can stay a bit longer, provided they are comfortable and have access to pee pads, food, and water. Aiming for a bathroom break every six hours is recommended, which is more feasible on shorter flights or when using a private pet transport service.

What should I include in my pet's travel carrier?

While there are no strict requirements for in-cabin pets, veterinarians recommend bringing food, water, or treats for the journey and any necessary medications your pet may require. Ensure you have essential documents, like vaccination records, which may be needed for boarding or entry. Adding an absorbent pad to the carrier, including an item with a familiar scent (such as something that smells like your pet or you), and providing their favorite toy can help ease their travel experience.

How much does it cost to travel with a cat?

Fees for bringing a pet into an aircraft cabin can vary among airlines. For instance, at United Airlines, adding your cat to your ticket costs an extra $125 for a one-way flight. Delta charges a $95 fee for domestic flights. The cost of flying a cat in the cargo hold for a domestic flight typically amounts to around $300 per flight. If your cat travels on an international flight, this cost can be up to three times higher.