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10 Best Cat Carriers For Large Cats 20 Lbs 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Henkelion Large Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier for Cats Dogs Puppies up to 25Lbs, Big Dog Carrier Soft Sided, Travel Puppy Carrier - Large - Grey

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,469
Size and Dimensions
Weight Capacity
Material and Durability

Most important from
51591 reviews

Size and Dimensions
Perfect fit for a mini dachshund weighing 15 lbs, with plenty of room to turn around and a sturdy bottom.
Weight Capacity
The pet carrier has ample room for a smaller dog up to 20 lbs, with zippered ends and mesh all around for visibility and ventilation.
Material and Durability
Construction is very good, making the product durable and built to last a long time.
Ventilation
The pet carrier has ample room for a smaller dog up to 20 lbs, with zippered ends and mesh all around for visibility and ventilation.
Ease of Access
The top opening allows pets to stick their head out, adding to comfort and visibility.
Comfort Features
The bottom is solid with a pad for comfort, and the carrying handle is strong, ensuring the carrier doesn't sag when carried.
Portability
Carrying handles are versatile, allowing for one-hand carry or shoulder strap use.
Security Features
The leash inside prevents pets from escaping when the sides are lowered, enhancing security.

The Henkelion Large Dog Cat Carrier is a versatile option for transporting larger cats or small dogs up to 25 lbs. Its dimensions (20 x 13 x 13 inches) provide a spacious environment for pets, but it's crucial to ensure that both the length and height of your pet fit within these measurements, not just their weight. The carrier is made from durable polyester fabric, making it both lightweight and sturdy, while the four-sided mesh design ensures good ventilation and visibility for your pet, which can help reduce their travel anxiety.

One significant drawback is that it is not airline approved, so it's not suitable for air travel but is perfect for car trips, vet visits, and daily travel needs. The carrier is easy to carry with both padded shoulder straps and handles, and it can be collapsed for convenient storage. Security features include an adjustable shoulder strap that allows for hands-free carrying, adding to its safety.

The interior is designed for comfort, though it might benefit from additional padding or a soft insert for longer journeys. At 2.6 pounds, the carrier is highly portable and easy to manage. The carrier is a solid choice for pet owners needing a durable, comfortable, and well-ventilated carrier for larger cats or small dogs for non-air travel purposes.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,469
Size and Dimensions
Weight Capacity
Material and Durability

Most important from
51591 reviews

Size and Dimensions
Perfect fit for a mini dachshund weighing 15 lbs, with plenty of room to turn around and a sturdy bottom.
Weight Capacity
The pet carrier has ample room for a smaller dog up to 20 lbs, with zippered ends and mesh all around for visibility and ventilation.
Material and Durability
Construction is very good, making the product durable and built to last a long time.
Ventilation
The pet carrier has ample room for a smaller dog up to 20 lbs, with zippered ends and mesh all around for visibility and ventilation.
Ease of Access
The top opening allows pets to stick their head out, adding to comfort and visibility.
Comfort Features
The bottom is solid with a pad for comfort, and the carrying handle is strong, ensuring the carrier doesn't sag when carried.
Portability
Carrying handles are versatile, allowing for one-hand carry or shoulder strap use.
Security Features
The leash inside prevents pets from escaping when the sides are lowered, enhancing security.
#2

Petmate Pet Porter Dog Kennel 24", Dark Gray & Black, for Pets 15-20lbs, Made in USA

Rating
8.8
Material and Durability
Ease of Access
Size and Dimensions

Most important from
8632 reviews

Material and Durability
The kennel is very well-built and sturdy, providing a secure space with no chance of pets escaping.
Ease of Access
Assembly is quick and easy, taking only a couple of minutes, making it hassle-free to set up.
Size and Dimensions
The size offers just enough room for large cats to fit comfortably, with space to relax or chill.
Comfort Features
Pets seem to settle well inside, showing no distress and even enjoying the space for play and rest.
Ventilation
The carrier’s ventilation is effective, ensuring pets get plenty of fresh air during travel or confinement.
Portability
Its lightweight design makes it easy to transport around the house or for travel purposes.

The Petmate Pet Porter Dog Kennel is a sturdy plastic carrier sized well for pets weighing 15-20 pounds, making it suitable for large cats up to about 20 lbs. Its exterior dimensions (24" x 16.7" x 14.5") and interior space provide enough room for comfort, though for very large or tall cats, a slightly bigger size might be better. The plastic shell is durable and easy to clean, with a smart stay-dry moat around the interior to help keep your pet dry if accidents happen. This is a nice feature for housebreaking or travel. Ventilation is good with openings on four sides, which ensures your cat gets plenty of fresh air during trips. The wire door has an easy-open latch that secures your pet while allowing quick access, and the fold-down handle makes carrying easier and more comfortable. It also meets most airline cargo requirements, so it's a solid choice for air travel.

This kennel is a bit basic in terms of comfort features like padding or soft lining, so you may want to add your own bedding for your cat’s comfort. Portability is decent given its light weight (around 4.5 lbs), but the rigid plastic design means it doesn’t fold down for compact storage. Security-wise, it offers reliable door latching but lacks additional locking features.

This carrier suits pet owners needing a durable, well-ventilated, airline-friendly option for a large cat around 20 lbs, especially if easy cleaning and basic portability are priorities. Those wanting more plush comfort or a collapsible design might consider other options.

Rating
8.8
Material and Durability
Ease of Access
Size and Dimensions

Most important from
8632 reviews

Material and Durability
The kennel is very well-built and sturdy, providing a secure space with no chance of pets escaping.
Ease of Access
Assembly is quick and easy, taking only a couple of minutes, making it hassle-free to set up.
Size and Dimensions
The size offers just enough room for large cats to fit comfortably, with space to relax or chill.
Comfort Features
Pets seem to settle well inside, showing no distress and even enjoying the space for play and rest.
Ventilation
The carrier’s ventilation is effective, ensuring pets get plenty of fresh air during travel or confinement.
Portability
Its lightweight design makes it easy to transport around the house or for travel purposes.
#3

Amazon Basics Hard-Sided Dog and Cat Kennel Single-Door Travel Pet Carrier with Metal Wire Ventilation, 23.6" L x 15.7" W x 13.0" H, Beige

Rating
8.5
Material and Durability
Size and Dimensions
Ventilation

Most important from
63294 reviews

Material and Durability
The carrier offers exceptional sturdiness and durability, providing solid protection with heavy-duty plastic and secure wire windows.
Size and Dimensions
Its spacious interior comfortably fits larger cats, allowing them to sit and turn around with ease during travel.
Ventilation
Ventilation is well-designed with multiple wire windows on the sides and front, ensuring good airflow while preventing paws from escaping.
Ease of Access
Assembly is straightforward and quick, with clear instructions and all necessary parts included for a secure fit.
Security Features
The locking mechanisms are reliable and user-friendly, featuring dual plastic locks that are convenient even for arthritic fingers.
Comfort Features
Adding a mat or cushion inside is recommended to improve comfort, as the hard plastic bottom can feel slippery or hard for pets.
Portability
The carrier’s weight and handle design make it suitable for short trips, though carrying it for extended periods may become tiring.

The Amazon Basics Hard-Sided Pet Carrier is a sturdy and practical option for large cats weighing around 20 pounds. Its dimensions (23.6"L x 15.7"W x 13"H) provide enough space for bigger cats to sit and turn comfortably, which is important for stress-free travel. Made from durable molded plastic with metal wire ventilation on the front door and sides, it ensures good airflow to keep your cat comfortable during trips. The single front door with a secure locking mechanism helps keep your pet safely inside without worry.

It features a top handle that makes carrying easier, though it might not be the lightest option at about 5.3 pounds, so longer carrying periods may feel a bit tiring. The hard-sided design offers solid protection against impacts, but it lacks soft padding or extra comfort features inside, so adding a blanket or cushion might be a good idea for your cat’s comfort. Accessibility is straightforward with one front door, but it might be a bit tricky to place larger cats inside or take them out quickly.

This carrier is suitable for pet owners who want a reliable, durable container for vet visits or short trips. For those needing multiple doors or more padding for extended travel, other options might be better. Its simple, modern design and secure build make it a dependable choice for safely transporting large cats.

Rating
8.5
Material and Durability
Size and Dimensions
Ventilation

Most important from
63294 reviews

Material and Durability
The carrier offers exceptional sturdiness and durability, providing solid protection with heavy-duty plastic and secure wire windows.
Size and Dimensions
Its spacious interior comfortably fits larger cats, allowing them to sit and turn around with ease during travel.
Ventilation
Ventilation is well-designed with multiple wire windows on the sides and front, ensuring good airflow while preventing paws from escaping.
Ease of Access
Assembly is straightforward and quick, with clear instructions and all necessary parts included for a secure fit.
Security Features
The locking mechanisms are reliable and user-friendly, featuring dual plastic locks that are convenient even for arthritic fingers.
Comfort Features
Adding a mat or cushion inside is recommended to improve comfort, as the hard plastic bottom can feel slippery or hard for pets.
Portability
The carrier’s weight and handle design make it suitable for short trips, though carrying it for extended periods may become tiring.

Buying Guide for the Best Cat Carriers For Large Cats 20 Lbs

Choosing the right cat carrier for your large cat is essential for ensuring their comfort and safety during travel. A well-chosen carrier can make trips to the vet, moving, or any other travel experience much less stressful for both you and your feline friend. When selecting a cat carrier, there are several key specifications to consider to ensure it meets your needs and provides the best fit for your large cat.
Size and DimensionsThe size and dimensions of the carrier are crucial because they determine how comfortably your cat can sit, stand, and turn around inside. For a large cat weighing around 20 lbs, you need a carrier that is spacious enough to accommodate their size. Look for carriers that are at least 18 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 14 inches high. If your cat is particularly large or long, you may need to go even bigger. Ensure there is enough room for your cat to move without feeling cramped, as this can reduce stress during travel.
Weight CapacityThe weight capacity of the carrier indicates how much weight it can safely hold. This is important to ensure the carrier can support your cat's weight without breaking or becoming unstable. For a cat that weighs 20 lbs, look for carriers with a weight capacity of at least 25 lbs to provide a safety margin. This ensures the carrier remains sturdy and secure, even if your cat moves around inside.
Material and DurabilityThe material and durability of the carrier are important for both safety and longevity. Carriers are typically made from hard plastic, soft fabric, or a combination of both. Hard plastic carriers offer more protection and are easier to clean, making them ideal for long trips or vet visits. Soft fabric carriers are lighter and more comfortable for short trips. Choose a carrier made from high-quality, durable materials that can withstand your cat's weight and any potential scratching or biting.
VentilationProper ventilation is essential to ensure your cat gets enough fresh air while inside the carrier. Look for carriers with multiple mesh windows or ventilation holes that allow for good airflow. This is especially important for longer trips or hot weather, as it helps keep your cat cool and comfortable. Ensure the ventilation openings are secure and cannot be easily clawed open by your cat.
Ease of AccessEase of access refers to how easily you can get your cat in and out of the carrier. Carriers with multiple entry points, such as top and front openings, can make it easier to place your cat inside and take them out. This is particularly useful for cats that are nervous or resistant to entering the carrier. Look for carriers with wide, secure openings that allow you to gently and safely handle your cat.
Comfort FeaturesComfort features such as padded interiors, removable mats, and soft bedding can make the carrier more inviting for your cat. These features help reduce stress and make the travel experience more pleasant. Consider carriers with washable and removable padding for easy cleaning. If your cat has specific comfort needs, such as extra padding for joint support, look for carriers that offer these options.
PortabilityPortability is important for your convenience, especially if you need to carry the carrier for extended periods. Look for carriers with comfortable handles, shoulder straps, or even wheels for easier transport. Ensure the carrier is lightweight yet sturdy enough to support your cat's weight. If you frequently travel by car, consider carriers that can be securely fastened with a seatbelt for added safety.
Security FeaturesSecurity features such as strong zippers, locking mechanisms, and escape-proof designs are crucial to prevent your cat from escaping. Ensure the carrier has secure closures that your cat cannot easily open. For added security, some carriers come with built-in leash attachments or harnesses. Choose a carrier with reliable security features to keep your cat safe during travel.

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