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Backpacks for carrying cats are a little more unusual than regular hard or soft carriers.
But they’re great because they offer a hands-free way of getting your cat from A-to-B securely.
Cat backpacks are popular with hikers but they can also be worn for taking a pet to the veterinarian, around the neighborhood, or on public transport.
For owners suffering with arm, wrist, shoulder or elbow pain, the weight distribution of a cat backpack can make it more comfortable than a traditional carrier.
There are different styles and materials to choose from.
Owners should think about the personality of their cat before purchasing. Mesh material, for example, could be less suitable for cats prone to biting or scratching at carriers.
Bubble backpacks are among our favourite carriers because they make cats look like little furry astronauts (and if that’s not a reason to buy one, we don’t know what is).
In a hurry? We’ll add links to our top 3 cat backpacks below so you can jump straight into shopping or keep reading for more information.
If you use one of our links and make a purchase, then we may make a small commission at no extra cost to you 😊
Last update on 2024-12-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Buying Backpacks for Carrying Cats: Things to Consider
- You’ll need to measure your cat from nose to tail to make sure you’re buying a carrier that’s big enough.
- Think about why you’re buying a cat backpack and what you’ll be using it for. If you’re planning on going hiking, then look for a pack that’s durable with strong stitching and check that it has a secure loop to attach a leash or harness to for added security. You may also need to consider the material it’s made from: do you need something that’s waterproof or only splash proof?
- If you’re hoping to fly on an airline with your cat in a backpack, then always double-check the regulations before you go. Often for in-cabin flights you need a soft-sided carrier than can be pushed down under the seat in front of you. Plastic cat backpacks or ones that can’t depress under airline seating may not be suitable.
- You might always want to see if there are pockets or zips that you can store items in. It’s useful to have a collapsible bowl to hand or space for some treats.
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Some cat backpacks fold down which makes them a good option for anyone looking to save space on carrier storage.
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Some backpacks for carrying cats are entirely see-through so it gives the cat a better view of the environment during travel. For some cats, this may be over stimulating or may cause motion sickness.
PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack
This is an attractive cat backpack and it comes in a great range of colors. It also has a raft of good reviews on Amazon and comes with a free collapsible water bowl.
- LARGE ROOMY DOG BACKPACK CARRIER: PetAmi Cat Carrier Backpack measured 12.5" x 10.2" x 16.3" (L x W x H) and is designed for maximum convenience and comfort for your pet and you while hiking, camping, and traveling, or taking your pet, cat to the vet, or dog walking. Easily fit large cats, small medium dogs, and other size pets with Max Weight limit 18 lbs. There are 2 ways to enter from both sides of the backpack carrier and it comes with ample room and bed so your pet travels in comfort.
- VENTILATED CAT CARRIER BACKPACK: Our pet backpack has well ventilated design for optimal airflow, two-way entry for easy access, zip up mesh window for more headroom and visibility, and thick, cozy sherpa lined bedding so your pet can rest and relax. This dog backpack carrier is reinforced with firm structure, making this the perfect weekend dog backpack for hiking, camping, dog walking, pet traveling, road trip, airplane travel.
- AIRLINE APPROVED PET BACKPACK: Designed with safety in mind, this puppy backpack, dog bookbag has firm structure that does not collapsed on your pet while traveling and hiking. Comes with safety strap and buckle to secure your pet to prevent escape. This dog backpack carrier is TSA approved so you can travel with peace of mind through the airport and plane. Additional pockets to hold all essentials, supplies and must have for your dog, cat, pet.
- SUPERIOR COMFORT, FIT, AND CONVENIENCE: The back and shoulder straps of the dog carrier backpack are equipped with extra thick padding for more comfort during long trips. This cat backpack comes with both waist and chest buckles to give you extra support. We also added side pouches and a front pocket to store essential pet supplies and a collapsible pet bowl to keep your pet hydrated! This airline approved cat backpack carrier is a must have essentials for dog mom, dad, owner and trainer.
- DOG BACKPACK CARRIER FOR SMALL MEDIUM DOGS: Made with durable 600D polyester, PetAmi pet backpack carrier fits most small medium dogs and medium large cats, rabbits and pets. This pet backpack is perfect for cycling, hiking, camping, walking and traveling while keeping your pet and you comfortable throughout travel. It makes a perfect gift for new dog owner, dog mom, dad, trainer and is available in multiple colors.
Last update on 2024-12-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- Measures approximately 12.5″ x 10.2″ x 16.3″ (L x W x H).
- Suitable for cats weighing up to 18 pounds.
- There’s plenty of ventilation.
- Two-way entry gives easy access into the backpack.
- A zip-up mesh window gives more space and increased visibility.
- Sherpa bedding for warmth and comfort.
- Durable re-enforced design
- Has both a safety strap and buckle for security
- Thick padding on the straps with additional support around both the waist and chest.
- It comes with a collapsible pet bowl
- Side pouches and a front pocket for easy access and storage.
- Good range of colors
- Good for carrying dogs, too.
We’re pretty impressed by the two-way entry system on this. You don’t always see that feature on cat backpacks. Our only concern with this carrier is that a few reviewers have said that the bottom platform (that sits inside) is a little too big. Several reviewers have gone on to make their own base board but that’s obviously not always ideal.
Henkelion Cat Backpack Carrier
This one gives the space capsule cat backpack feel but it has a completely clear front face to allow you cat to see out into the world.
- 🐶SPACE CAPSULE APPEARANCE - The unique and popular space capsule design makes your pet feel safer, comfortable and lets it have a broader vision of the outside
- 🐶BACKPACK & FRONT PACK - Henkelion pet carrier achieves your hands-free and makes it easier to take care of your pet during hiking, travel, cycling and walking etc, whether you wear it on the front or the back
- 🐶BREATHABLE & DURABLE - The solid ABS material and oxford cloth with nine-hole and air mesh bring both better air circulation and anti-scratch effect
- 🐶ERGONOMIC DESIGN - The straps of backpack can absorb sweat and relieve the pressure from your backpack to make you feel more comfortable
- 🐱TRAVEL WITH YOUR PETS - This dog backpack carrier is designed for outdoors and travel, you can use it to carry small dogs or cats for biking, hiking, camping, outdoor walking or meeting friends
Last update on 2024-12-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- Size: 12.2 by 11.4 by 16.5 inches
- Weighs: Fits most pets up to 10 pounds
- Ideal for hands-free traveling as can be worn on the back or the front of the body.
- Good ventilation and airflow throughout
- Adjustable shoulder strap helps distribute the weight evenly.
- Comes with a safety tether
- It’s a bestseller on Amazon
Several reviewers have commented on the strong manufacturing smell present when you first get it. We’d recommend putting it outside to air in the sun.
Texsens Innovative Traveler Bubble Backpack Pet Carriers for Cats and Dog
We think these are incredibly cute. They make cats look like they’re in a space capsule! The smaller viewing area may be more suitable for cats that don’t want a full view of where they’re going. The synthetic leather may be hardier that some of the fabric cat backpacks if you have an anxious cat.
- 1. Revolutionary semi-sphere window design adds a unique function in addition to its switchable mesh panel. Small pets, such as small cats and dogs can be easy to keep in carriers.
- 2. Economize your carrying effort, eco-friendly casual life style. Adjustable padded shoulder straps and carrying handle make our carrier easy to attach to a seat belt.
- 3. Built-in security leash, mesh panels & ventilation holes, soft washable pad, top & side entries for maximum accessibility, easy storage and travel - comfort, convenience and safety. Practically designed backpack cases, satchels, and bags are great for keeping your furry friend with you on all your adventures.
- 4. The semi-sphere window design can stop them from escaping and keeps them safe in your care. It also provides a more interesting and safe space for your pet, which allows your pets to enjoy the sunshine and scenery with you and interact with the outside world.
- 5. Dimension: 13.39 "L x 9.84 "W x 17.32 "H. Carrier Weight:4.4 Pound fits cat up to 13 pounds and perfect for 10 pounds cat.
Last update on 2024-12-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- Dimensions: 12.99″L x 9.05″W x 15.74
- This backpack fits cats under 13 pounds but the optimum weight is 10 pounds and under.
- There’s just something so adorable about seeing a cat in an astronaut bubble backpack, and we weren’t kidding — take a look at the video on the product page.
- The semi-sphere window gives the cat a secure place from which to view the world and see what’s going on around them without the risk that they’ll bite or claw through the soft fabric.
- There’s a built-in security leash for added security.
- There’s good ventilation as well as mesh panels around the backpack.
- The adjustable shoulder straps are great for added comfort and for supporting the weight of the cat against your back.
- The top and side entry of the backpack allows for easy accessibility.
- It comes with a plastic bubble dome that has 3 ventilation holes and a mesh cover.
The product may have a strong manufacturing smell when unboxed so you may need to leave it to air for a few days before using.
Pecute Pet Carrier Backpack
We love how this expandable cat backpack is spacious when being used but it’s also collapsible so it’s easy to store.
- 【 NOTICE 】: Before purchasing, please measure the dog's sitting height (from front legs to the top of the head) to ensure that the dog's sitting height is within the recommended range, otherwise it may be too large or too small; L size: 17.4*13.4*10.6in, suitable for cats less than 15.4lbs; for dogs less than 13lbs and sitting height ≤15.6"; XL size: 19.3*15.7*12.9in, for cats that 15.4lbs~24lbs; for dogs 13lbs~22lbs, and sitting height /15.6"~17.6"
- 【 EXPANDABLE DESIGN 】: Expanded size: 13.4" L x 24.4" W x 17.3" H. This pet backpack with an expandable back design gives your pet more space to rest and increases airflow, allowing your pet to move around more comfortably and reducing anxiety.
- 【 GREAT VENTILATION & VISIBILITY & COMFORT 】: A 3-panel acrylic board design can provide excellent light transmission and visibility. 4 ventilation holes are located on both sides and at the top with a breathable mesh, ensuring airflow and no sultry heat. To enhance comfort, the pet cushion is placed inside the bag's bottom and has a removable, washable cover. This ensures your furry friend has a spot to rest while on the go.
- 【 ERGONOMIC DESIGN 】: Widened and padded design, adjustable shoulder straps help reduce the load and increase comfort, as well as adjustable chest and waist buckle design of the cat carrier backpacks to prevent shoulder strap deviation and maintain the stability of the pet puppy carrier.
- 【SAFETY & STORAGE 】: 1, Made of high-quality Oxford Cloth, waterproof, anti-scratch, and non-irritating, let your pet breathe freely and relax. 2, Adopts lock-type zipper design to prevent the zipper from being opened by pets. Built-in retractable hook safety rope to prevent pets from escaping. 3, The pockets on both sides can store food, water bottle, poop bags, and some necessary accessories.
Last update on 2024-12-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- Product size: 34 by 27 by 44 cm / 13.4 by 10.6 by 17.3 in
- Extended size: 62 by 34 by 45 cm / 24.4 by 13.4 by 17.7 in
- This cat backpack can be opened out to give your cat some extra space when you’re not carrying it.
- Good ventilation
- You can adjust the shoulder straps to make the backpack more comfortable and for better weight distribution.
- Made from waterproof and anti-scratch fabric
- You can zip and unzip on both sides
- It has storage pockets on both sides
- The double-sided pad that fits in the bottom will help keep your cat warm in the winter and cooler in the summer.
- There’s a safety leash.
Some reviewers have said that the cat backpack heats up quite quickly in very hot weather.
Pet Gear I-GO2 Roller Backpack
This is a really versatile way to travel with your cat because it’s multiple carriers in one.
- Five products in one: carrier, car seat, backpack, roller bag, and tote
- Included tether for attaching to pet's harness for added safety
- Telescoping handle stores away like a suitcase
- Expandable sides provide 3 inches of additional space; features two side storage pouches
- Dimensions: 16 x 13.5 x 22 inches; suitable for pets up to 25 pounds
Last update on 2024-12-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- The cat backpack measures 16″L x 12″W x 15″H
- This isn’t just a backpack but a car seat, carrier, roller bag and a tote all-in-one.
- Its telescopic handle allows you to pull it along like a suitcase.
- You can add an additional three inches of space by expanding the sides.
- The side storage pockets are useful for things that need to be kept close to hand.
- Some reviewers have said it’s ideal for trips to the veterinarian’s office but less so for use in airline cabins.
- There’s a removable washable pad
There are three size options so we’d recommend that you measure your cat before buying. Also, some reviewers have said that it’s a little bulky as a backpack.
Are Cat Backpacks Cruel?
Backpacks for carrying cats are no crueler than a regular carrier.
It’s the same principle as a hand-carrier but it has straps and you hold it on your back.
Of course, some cats might not like being enclosed in a backpack because while there’s ventilation in a backpack they might prefer to feel the air on their whiskers.
It will probably depend on the personality of your cat and how they usually react to being put in a carrier.
Cat backpacks are enjoyed by countless owners and pets. They might not be for everyone but they’re not cruel if used correctly and with the cat’s best interests in mind.
Backpacks for carrying cats are a great alternative to more traditional carriers. Some cats will love them and if your feline has a taste for the open country or enjoys being up high then they’re ideal.
Nice list of backpacks for cats! The first time I heard of this idea I bought one lol. I got mine from kittybackpack.com but the brand’s you mention also sound pretty cool! Have you seen the carriers with transparent windows? My baby loves it!
I LOVE the ones with the windows. They’re so cute 🙂 I’ll check the website out – thanks x