Best Cat Carrier Reviews UK 2023 – Top 9 Comparison

Last Updated On December 27th, 2021

While we don’t always use cat carriers that often, owning one is an important and essential part of being a cat owner. Cat carriers allow you to easily transport your pet anywhere you like. A good quality cat carrier is safe and comfortable for your pet, but it is also easy for you to carry. Many cat carriers are even airline size-approved so you can bring your furry friend adventuring by air, not just by car.

The type of carrier you choose for your cat will have an effect on your cat’s comfort and wellbeing during transport whether on holiday or that dreaded trip to the vets. For this reason, we’ve reviewed popular and top-rated products to help you find the best carrier in the UK for your pet.

Best Cat Carrier Reviews – Top 9 Picks

1. Morpilot Foldable (Editor’s Choice)

Morpilot FoldableOur top pick for the best cat carrier in the UK is the Morpilot Foldable. This soft-sided carrier provides your cat with added comfort and accessories that make it exceptionally easy to travel with your cat.

Features

The Morpilot cat carrier is constructed using durable polyester. It also comes with a support board on the bottom to promote shape retention. In addition, it boasts a breathable mesh top and sides that enhance your cat’s viewing experience. For loading, both a top and front opening make it easier to place your cat inside. Durable metal zippers and hooks paired with two carry handles and a detachable shoulder strap help make transport easy while also keeping your pets safe.

This pet carrier can withstand up to 6.8kg of weight and comes with a soft fleece removable cushion that is easy to clean in a washing machine. Additional accessories include a safety leash, exterior pocket, luggage or seat belt strap, and a collapsible pet bowl. The Morpilot front and top loading carrier is airline-approved and can fit under the seat in front of you.

On the downside, based on reviews, this carrier may lose its shape when both doors are open. Its smaller size also means it may not be ideal for larger cats.

Pros:
  • Collapsible water bowl
  • Airline-approved travel size
  • 2 large openings
  • Breathable mesh sides and top
  • Durable construction
Cons:
  • May lose shape when doors are open
  • May not be the best for large cats

2. Pecute Backpack (Luxury Choice)

Pecute BackpackThe Pecute Backpack pet carrier is our luxury pick. This product is made with high-quality materials and has a unique expandable construction that makes it great for travelling.

Features

This soft-sided carrier has a unique backpack design. It also features a pop-up mesh tunnel with a hanging plush ball toy that expands your cat’s play area. Additionally, it has mesh windows on the sides and top for added viewing pleasure and ventilation. The Pecute cat carrier makes loading your cat easy with its large side and front entrance. It also has a smaller top entrance that allows your pet to stick its head out.

This cat carrier comes with a stable steel frame and has a 10kg maximum weight load. A waist and chest strap helps secure the backpack on your body during transport and a safety leash and lockable zippers help to further secure your cat. The Pecute Backpack carrier also has multiple pockets for storage and even comes with a one year warranty.

However, this backpack-style cat carrier may be too narrow for bigger cats to lie down without the extension. Furthermore, there are reports of the zippers sticking.

Pros:
  • Expandable mesh tunnel
  • Waist and chest straps
  • Lockable zippers
  • Multiple storage pockets
  • Hardwearing steel frame
Cons:
  • Might be too narrow for large breeds
  • Reports of zippers sticking

3. Pet Magasin Soft-Sided (Best Value)

Pet Magasin soft-sidedAnother worthy contender on this list is the Pet Magasin Soft-Sided cat carrier. This soft-sided model is durable and comes with a waterproof interior for easy cleaning.

Features

The Pet Magasin cat carrier’s foldable construction makes it easy to store when not in use. It has a top carry handle and a removable padded shoulder strap for versatile carrying options. The firm bottom, mesh side windows, and mesh front provides a sturdy surface for your cat while also allowing it to view its surroundings.

The Pet Magasin Soft-Sided pet carrier can hold up to 9kg of weight. It is great for travelling by air and easily fits within most airlines travel size restrictions. You can choose between blue, orange, pink, or yellow colour options, and a mesh pocket and safety leash are also incorporated into this carrier’s design.

The single top handle construction of this cat carrier is not as stable as a dual handle design and may collapse the top slightly when using it to carry. Also, the single door is less ideal for difficult cats who can benefit from a top-loading design.

Pros:
  • Padded shoulder strap
  • Foldable design
  • Waterproof interior
  • Multiple ventilation windows
  • Airline approved size
Cons:
  • Single handle on top may not be as stable
  • Single opening may make it difficult to load some cats

4. MOOL Large Soft-Sided (Best Lightweight)

MOOL Large soft-sidedThe Mool Large Soft-sided cat carrier is a great choice for anyone looking to find a lightweight option that still gives your pet plenty of room to move around.

Features

The MOOL soft-sided cat carrier bag has a convenient fold-down construction with clips for easy storage. It has a durable steel frame with breathable mesh on all sides and the top for ample viewing. The top, side, and front doors feature a rollback design and loop closure that creates easier access. Mool cat carriers are made with water-resistant material for easy cleaning and can hold up to 15kg of weight.

The Mool Large has two padded handles and comes with a reversible cushion mat with fleece on one side for warmth and polyester on the other side for cooling. A zipped pouch pocket on the top and a removable hanging pouch on the back allows you to store pet accessories like treats and toys. It is available in 8 fun colour options.

It is worth noting, however, that this cat carrier does not come with a shoulder strap and the side walls are a bit flimsier due to their expansive mesh design.

Pros:
  • 3 openings
  • Spacious and breathable interior
  • Lightweight construction
  • Multiple pockets
  • Rollback openings
Cons:
  • Sides may be slightly flimsy
  • No shoulder strap might make carrying more difficult

5. AmazonBasics Medium (Best for Smaller Pets)

AmazonBasics MediumAmazonBasics Medium cat carrier is next up on our best cat carrier in the UK list. It makes a great choice for those seeking a cat carrier with lots of room to keep their cats comfortable during a trip.

Features

The AmazonBasics soft-sided cat carrier bag has almost entirely mesh sides with large front and top openings that make it easy to get your cat in and out. It comes in solid black and can carry up to 7.3kg. A removable base makes this carrier easy to clean while two handles and a shoulder strap make it easy and comfortable to carry.

This pet carrier comes with a removable fleece cushion that is machine washable and has a seatbelt or luggage strap. The Medium cat carrier bag comes with a spring wire-frame that allows it to conform to a more confined area making it a suitable size for most airlines as well.

It is important to keep in mind that the high visibility of this pet carrier is not ideal for anxious cats. The smaller than usual sizing may make you want to size up for a larger pet.

Pros:
  • Superior breathability
  • Spring wire frame
  • Multiple openings
  • Machine washable fleece pad
  • Dual handles and shoulder strap
Cons:
  • Might not be a great choice for anxious cats
  • May be smaller than usual sizes

6. Happy Hachi Padded Waterproof (Best for Air Travel)

Happy Hachi Padded WaterproofThe Happy Hachi Padded Waterproof soft-sided pet carrier is a good choice if you have an anxious cat that could be more comfortable with added coverage. It is also fully washable for easy cleaning and maintenance.

Features

The Happy Hachi cat carrier bag includes a small zip window, a large zipper front door, and a mesh top. It is made with waterproof durable materials and has two handles and a padded shoulder strap for a comfortable carry.

This cat carrier also has a plush fleece removable and machine washable pad. Additionally, it comes with a safety leash, and three pockets with a removable trash bag, and a seatbelt or luggage strap. Furthermore, the Happy Hachi cat carrier bag is airline-approved and can hold up to 5kg. It is available in light pink, purple, black, or blue.

You may want to consider that this cat carrier has a lower weight limit compared. Also, it doesn’t have a top-loading option which could make it harder to get some cats inside.

Pros:
  • Good for anxious cats
  • 3 pockets
  • Machine-washable
  • Airline travel approved
  • Pet trash bag included
Cons:
  • Lower weight limit may not be ideal for larger felines
  • Might be challenging to load difficult or anxious cats

7. Pet Magasin Hard Top (Best Ventilation)

Pet Magasin Hard TopThe Pet Magasin Hard Top pet carrier is another great choice on our best cat carriers list. Its unique and stylish design is a blend of both soft-sided and hard shell carriers and gives your cat plenty of space to move around and be comfortable.

Features

This Pet Magasin cat carrier comes with a hard top and a hard base with soft sides that create a sturdy structure to keep your pet safe. It is also collapsible for easy storage. The large front and top doors make it easy to use. Extra tough breathable mesh walls with an aerated cover for added protection adorn this carrier for added pet visibility and ventilation.

The Hard Top pet carrier comes with a padded mat and can hold up to 8.16kg. It also comes with lockable zippers for your pet’s safety.

Keep in mind that this carrier might not be ideal for anxious cats that are known to try and claw their way out of a carrier. Its single-handle construction lacks stability making it harder to carry.

Pros:
  • Unique style
  • Hard top and bottom
  • Space-saving storage design
  • Lockable zippers
  • Spacious interior
Cons:
  • Anxious cats may not like the mesh sides
  • May lack stability due to the single handle construction

8. Siivton 4 Way (Best Expandable Option)

Siivton 4 WayThe soft-sided Siivton 4 Way highlights a highly expandable design to keep your cat comfortable. It also comes with a well-made sturdy frame that is great for use during long excursions.

Features

The Siivton 4 Way cat carrier provides superior comfort for your pets with its extra-long, foldable fleece bed that spans the bottom and both sides of the carrier. It folds down on all four sides for more space and enhanced ventilation which your cat is sure to like. This Siivton carrier has a top and side opening with a sturdy baseboard and is made with waterproof material.

The Siivton 4 Way is airline-approved for travel and can hold up to 6.35kg. Two top handles and a shoulder strap make for an easy, even carry. There’s also a luggage or seat belt strap for stabilising the carrier, which will help calm down an anxious cat. Non-slip bottom pads and a safety leash help keep your pets safe during travel while the side pocket makes for easy storage.

Unfortunately, according to some reviews, this cat carrier has lower quality zippers that may stick. It is also not for larger cats due to its lower weight limit.

Pros:
  • 4-way expansion
  • Long fleece cushion
  • Enhanced breathability
  • Sturdy and foldable
  • Airline approved
Cons:
  • Lower quality zippers may stick
  • May not be suitable for larger cats

9. HITSLAM Large (Best for Travelling)

HITSLAM LargeThe HITSLAM Large soft-sided cat carrier is great for anyone whose pets like to look around at their surroundings. This cat carrier is also lined with faux lambskin for your pet’s comfort.

Features

The HITSLAM Large cat carrier boasts an almost entirely mesh structure, minus the wood base and frame, of course. It comes with a collapsible spring wire alloy steel frame that can conform to a smaller space for airline approved travel. Both a front and top entrance make this cat carrier easier to use. In addition, its two handles and a shoulder strap make for an even, stable carry.

A machine-washable dual-layer faux lambskin cushion comes with this cat carrier to ensure your cat’s comfort and the front entrance’s zippers are lockable to provide you with extra peace of mind. Front and rear mesh pockets allow you to easily store small items like toys and pet waste bags while the carrier can hold up to 10.5kg.

The HITSLAM Large cat carrier has a less durable mesh that may not hold up with anxious cats who are known to claw and the less secure zipper top may be no match for escape artist pets.

Pros:
  • Highly breathable construction
  • Lockable front zippers
  • Sturdy wood base
  • 2 mesh pockets
  • Spring wire frame
Cons:
  • Less durable mesh may rip
  • Less secure zipper top may become loose

Cat Carrier Buying Guide

That’s all for our top cat carrier reviews. Now let’s explore some of the most important things to consider when choosing a cat carrier. This buying guide also aims to answer lingering questions like, what is the safest cat carrier? Or, what is the best type of cat carrier?

What to Look for in a Cat Carrier

Listed below are some of the most important things to consider when in the market for the perfect carrier. While you may not need to consider all of these traits, simply knowing your options should help you find a better match for your cat’s car or air expeditions.

Size

kitten inside travel pet crateAs with other pet accessories like dog harnesses, cat beds and cat feeders, we think size is the best place to start when looking to find a new cat carrier. You want to first make sure your cat can comfortably fit inside the carrier and that it doesn’t exceed the weight limit. Take measurements of your cat and add some extra space for them to freely move around. This way, you’ll know exactly what you need. If you have a large breed cat, make sure to look for a long or large cat carrier, UK sizes may vary.

Doors and Handles

Some cats will walk right into a carrier, but you may need to think about the door options on a cat carrier if you have a particularly anxious cat or a cat that struggles to get into a carrier without a fight. A top-loading cat carrier or a carrier with extra doors can often help you get your cat inside, even during a struggle. However, one large door can also do the trick if the opening is wide enough and you stand it on its end and lower your cat in from above.

Cleaning and Maintenance

It is not uncommon for cats to have an accident inside their cat carrier, especially if they are nervous. That’s why we think it’s important to find a cat carrier that is also easy to clean. Having large doors or multiple doors can help you access the interior better and a machine washable cushion doesn’t hurt either.

Comfort

The best cat carriers will also provide your pet with a level of extra comfort by including a cushion. Another way to make sure your cat is comfortable is by ensuring the carrier offers plenty of ventilation so your pet can get all the air it could possibly need. A stuffy cat carrier will only make your cat uneasy.

Intended Use

You may also want to consider how you plan to use a cat carrier. Is it for car travel? Or a long plane ride? Your answer could affect the type of carrier you need. If you intend to only take it in your car, size may not be as important. However, if you intend to take it on a plane you will need to make sure it fits within airline size restrictions.

Different Types of Cat Carriers

shy feline inside pet carry bagThere are three main types of cat carriers: soft-sided, hard shell, or backpack. Almost all of the carriers on our list are soft-sided because we like that they are lightweight, are more easily airline compliant, and require less storage space when they are not in use.

Hard shell cat carriers are stronger, as long as they don’t crack, but often don’t have as many doors or nearly as much viewing capability. Hard shell carriers are also good for cats that are known to scratch and may be able to puncture mesh.

Backpack carriers are fun and convenient to carry but generally aren’t ideal for longer excursions. This is because they don’t provide as much space for cats to move around or stretch out and lie down. Are cat backpacks cruel? No, we just don’t recommend them for longer journeys.

Do cats prefer hard or soft carriers? It all depends on your cat. One cat may need a hard shell to protect against scratches, while another will be better served by a carrier bag.

Benefits of a Cat Carrier

Cat carriers enable you to take your cat outside of your home and are actually a requirement if you want to take them on a plane. A well-made cat carrier can provide you with a sense of security when you travel. It will keep your cat safe while you travel and can even make your cat less anxious in unfamiliar territory by providing it with a covered place to hide.

Choosing the Best Cat Carrier

If you’re still unsure which cat carrier to pick, we recommend our Editor’s Choice, the Morpilot Foldable.

We believe it could easily be the best cat carrier in the UK as it offers all the comforts a cat could need. Aside from the durable construction, it has a collapsible water bowl, a plush cushion mat, two large openings, and breathable mesh windows. The Morpilot foldable cat carrier also comes in a size that’s airline-approved, can hold up to 6.8kg of weight, and has several safety features. It is easy to carry and clean as well.

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