10 Best Cat Carrier 2026 in the United States

The Sleepypod Air is a large-sized, airline-approved carrier designed for both cats and small dogs, making it a good choice for pet owners who travel by air. It’s made from durable nylon and polyester, which offers a sturdy yet lightweight construction at just under 2 pounds, helping with portability. The materials suggest it should be fairly easy to clean.

Ventilation is important in carriers, especially for air travel, and Sleepypod products typically include good airflow to keep pets comfortable. Security is well thought out since it’s airline-approved, meaning it meets strict standards to keep your pet safe during flights. The size is quite spacious compared to many other carriers, which should add to your cat's comfort, but if your cat prefers smaller, more enclosed spaces, this might feel a bit large.

Portability is strong here due to its lightweight design and compact dimensions that fit under airplane seats. However, since this is a soft-sided carrier, it might not be as protective against rough handling as hard carriers. This carrier suits pet owners who need a reliable, comfortable, and travel-friendly option for their cats or small dogs, especially those flying often. If your cat is a nervous traveler or you want something ultra-rugged, you might want to compare with other styles.

The Amazon Basics Folding Soft Crate is a lightweight, portable carrier made from tan polyester with a sturdy frame, offering good ventilation through mesh windows on all sides. Its size (36" x 24" x 24") is quite large, designed mainly for dogs up to 70 pounds, so it might be spacious for most cats but a bit bulky for small or timid ones. The crate sets up quickly without tools and folds flat for easy storage, making it convenient for travel or trips to the vet. Security comes from zipper closures and straps that keep the doors securely rolled up when open. However, since it’s soft-sided and made of fabric, it may not provide the same level of protection or durability as a hard carrier, especially if your cat is an escape artist or tends to scratch. Cleaning might be a bit tricky since fabric can absorb odors or stains, unlike hard plastic carriers that wipe clean easily.

Comfort-wise, the soft material and ventilation should keep your cat cozy during use, but adding a soft pad or blanket is recommended. While the crate is designed with dogs in mind, cat owners who want a roomy, breathable, and portable carrier could find it useful, especially if their cats are crate-trained and calm during travel. For those who prioritize easy cleaning or a compact size specifically tailored to cats, there might be better options available.

The Henkelion Large Soft Sided Cat and Pet Carrier is designed for cats and small dogs weighing up to 25 lbs. It measures 20 x 13 x 13 inches, offering ample space for your pet. Made from durable polyester fabric, this carrier is lightweight, weighing just 2 pounds, making it easy to transport.

The four-side mesh design ensures excellent ventilation and visibility, which helps keep your pet comfortable and allows you to keep an eye on them during travel. However, this carrier is not airline-approved, so it's not suitable for airplane travel, but it’s perfect for car trips, vet visits, or daily outings. The safety design includes an adjustable shoulder strap for hands-free carrying, enhancing convenience and security.

Portability is further improved by its collapsible nature, allowing for easy storage when not in use. Cleaning is a breeze as the carrier is machine washable. One consideration is that while it’s designed for pets up to 25 lbs, you should also check your pet's dimensions to ensure a good fit. This carrier is a great option for pet owners who need a durable, portable, and comfortable solution for short-distance travel with their pets.