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 Dog Carrier | Spree is suitable as a "Toy" breed dog carrier, cat carrier, small bird carrier & small animal carrier for quick trips to the Veterinarian, pet store, dog park, etc..
- Dog carrier interior dimensions: 17.91L x 11.5W x 12H inches & doorway measures 7.16W x 7.63H inches, green
- Pet carrier is available in 3 fun & fashionable colors & the design provides proper air circulation / visibility for your pet; Spree dog carrier is ideal for short trips
- Dog carrier made of durable, easy-to-clean plastic & includes built in carrying handle. Spree features a patented, quick & easy 5 step, no tools assembly. Our pet carrier assembles much easier than competitor carriers that use “nut & bolt” assembly
- Quality pet carrier; each Spree dog carrier includes our MidWest Homes for Pets Quality Guarantee 1-Year Manufacturer's Warranty
- FOLDING CAT CARRIER Folds down neatly for storage in your closet or on a convenient shelf, yet set-up in a cinch whenever you need to travel with your feline sidekick. It's quick, cozy carrying for on the go! For pets up to 25 lbs.
- DURABLY BUILT The plastic and steel construction offer a long life of use, and the sturdy door has a single-motion door lock – it stays securely shut, but opens easily for you.
- CAT COMFORT IN MIND The unique, triangular shape makes for a cozy lounging area for your cat, yet it has plenty of built-in slats and vents so your pet always has a complete, calming view if his surroundings.
- SECURE AND COZY DEN: Our Two-Door Kennel offers easy top or front-loading access, spring-loaded latches, and a foldable handle. Designed to support your dog’s natural denning instincts, it provides a safe, comfortable space for your furry friend.
- AIRLINE-APPROVED DOG CARRIER: Our small crate meets most airline cargo specifications and features ventilation holes on each side for fresh air and 360-degree visibility, helping your pet feel at ease during flights or car rides to the vet, park, or groomer.
- TRAVEL CRATE FOR SMALL DOGS AND CATS: With dimensions of 24.1" L x 16.8" W x 14.5" H, our kennel is suitable for small animals up to 15 lbs. Pets should have just enough room to walk inside the dog kennel, turn around, and lie comfortably. The floor can accommodate a pad for added cushion.
- EASY TO ASSEMBLE AND CLEAN: This puppy carrier's sturdy plastic shell makes it easy to wipe down quickly. The interior stay-dry moat directs fluids away from your pet in case of accidents, making it ideal for housetraining puppies. It has a strong wingnut bolt assembly, no tools required.
- PETMATE: The well-being of pets is at the heart of everything we do. For over 60 years, we've been dedicated to creating reliable, high-quality products that improve the lives of pets and their owners, knowing that pets are every bit as much a part of the family.
- Pet Carrier: 17.5” L x 11” W x 11” H, Recommended max load of 16 lbs cats small dogs. Please do not choose your carrier based on weight--please reference your pet's length and height in selecting a pet carrier size.
- Fits for under-seat dimensions of most airlines. Every airline has a specific set of rules and regulations, please contact with airline before flying with your cats small dogs.
- Mesh windows for ventilation, top and side entry with locking zippers for safety. Carrying handles, adjustable shoulder strap which can also be used as seatbelt, and back strap can fasten the pet carrier to your luggage.
- Pet carrier comes with a removable base insert, which creates a solid surface for your pet to stand on, along with a removable & hand washable cozy fleece pet bed, which offers a cozy sleeping space for your traveling cats small dogs.
- "Toys for pets, of textile materials". Mostly used as a Toy of Fabric Pet Home for pets playing and relaxing.
- Sturdy Plastic Dog Crate: Securely and safely protect your pet and your home with this small dog crate that features an easy-open latch to secure the sturdy wire door, and durable fold-down handle making carrying this dog travel crate a breeze
- Suitable for Pets 15-20 lbs: Pet Kennel exterior dimensions - 24" L x 16.7" W x 14.5" H; Interior dimensions - 21.5" L x 15" W x 13.5" H. Product weight – 5 lbs. If in doubt, buy a size up. No tools required for assembly
- Airline Friendly Dog Carrier: This pet carrier meets most airline cargo specifications. This travel dog crate also has ventilation on 4 sides. Includes built in storage for additional pet identification
- Easy to Keep Clean: Sturdy plastic shell on this dog carrier is easy to clean, with stay-dry moat that surrounds the interior to pulls fluids away from your pet in case of wet accidents, making it a great puppy carrier or kennel trainer for housebreaking
- For Pets and Pet Parents: Petmate provides everyday essentials for pet parents, dogs, cats and other pets such as: litter box accessories, pet toys, cat cages, dog cages, gravity water/food bowls, dog cages, pet beds, puppy crates, cat carriers and more!
- Hard-Sided Pet Carrier for Any Occasion | Atlas two door top load carriers are made of durable plastic and are great for traveling with your pet dog or cat, convenient front & top doors provide easy access to your pets & the included handle makes carrying a breeze
- Easy to Assemble Dog Carrier | No tedious nut & bolt assembly like other plastic carriers, the Atlas pet carrier uses buckles for a quick & secure assembly
- Dog Carrier Ideal for "Toy" Dog Breeds | 19-inch dog carrier is ideal for "Toy" dog breeds & XS small cats. Pet carrier dimensions: Outer 18.75L x 13W x 11.75H, Front Entry 8.5W x 9.25H & Interior 15.325L x 9.25W x 10.75H inches
- Low Maintenance Pet Carrier | Hard plastic shell & powder coated front / top doors are easy to clean, the included carrying handle folds down when not in use
- Quality Guaranteed Pet Carrier | Durable plastic shell & powder coated metal doors are built to last & are guaranteed by our 1-Year Manufacturer's Warranty
- PERFECT SIZE FOR A TRIP TO VET: A pet carrier that gives you the best features of both hard and soft carriers! 17" long by 13" high by 14" wide, it's suitable for cats, small dogs, and other pets.
- HARD BASE & PROTECTION: A hard top and hard base give you sturdy protection for your pet, and gives your pet a firm surface to stand on.
- EASY FOR STORAGE & COMFORTABLE INSIDE: The soft sides can be folded down so the whole carrier fits into a neat little package -- just the top and bottom zippered together. Takes up very little storage space while it's not in use. A padded mat in the floor gives your pet a comfortable place to lie down and a non-slip surface to stand on. A see-through mesh door lets him or her keep an eye on the world outside.
- EXTRA-SAFE & BREATHABLE: The carrier is made from premium materials, YKK zippers, and panels of tough but breathable mesh.
- Hard Sided Travel Pet Carrier - This airline-adaptable pet carrier is built with heavy-duty plastic for strength & security, for quick trips to the vet, pet store, etc. Perfect for small dogs & pets up to 10 lbs.
- Durable and Heavy-Duty Construction - Durable PP shell, extra strong steel wire provides a combination of lightweight durability and excellent ventilation. It's easy to transport, impact resistant, and ensures your pet stays comfortable with plenty of fresh air throughout the trip.
- Two-Door Easy Access - Provides both front and top entry options, making it easier to get your pet in and out, especially for pets who are fearful of confinement. The dual-entry design also improves emergency access, ensuring your pet's safety and comfort during transport.
- 360 Degree Ventilation - Enhance airflow to ensure your pet gets plenty of fresh air and stays comfortable throughout the trip. In addition, this comprehensive ventilation helps reduce pet anxiety by providing a clear view of the surroundings, making the travel experience less stressful.
- Removable Panel - Equipped with a removable urine diversion panel for easy cleaning, maintaining hygiene and providing a comfortable, dry space for your pet.
- Stylish Hard-Sided Pet Carrier: Jet dog carrier is suitable for “Toy” dog breeds and XS cats. This carrier is ideal for pets with an adult weight up to 6 pounds & length under 15.4 inches, assembled pet carrier dimensions are 18.51 x 12.6W x 11.42H, doorway measures 8.5W x 9.5H inches
- Great Entry-Level Pet Carrier with Quick & Easy Assembly: Unlike other hard-sided dog carriers that require a tedious nut & bolt assembly which loosens over time, the new Jet features four buckle clips for easy, long lasting & secure assembly
- Convenient Light Weight Design: Jet pet carrier is durable & lightweight with a carrying handle & a clear plastic door that opens in either direction, top of the carrier has two built-in slots designed for a vehicle’s seat-belt for additional safety while traveling. Note, pet carrier is not airline approved
- 4 Fashionable Colors: Jet pet carrier is carbon gray in color & available in 4 different buckle latch color options allowing you to accessorize to your pet's personality; choose between orange, fuchsia, gray or green
- Ferplast Quality Guarantee: Jet hard-sided dog carrier includes a 1-year manufacturing warranty. Be sure to measure your dog’s adult weight & length to ensure this carrier is large enough for your pet
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.