What’s the Best Extra Large Cat Carrier for UK Cats?

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For those of us with smaller cats, it’s easy to forget that there are domestic breeds that take up almost as much room in the home and the car as they do in our hearts.

 

For example, adult male Maine Coons can weigh between 15 and 25 pounds and grow to be 40cms long.

Big cats need bigger carriers, and you may need to buy an extra-large one to fit your handsome boy or gorgeous girl inside.

 

 

And okay, so shopping for cat carriers isn’t the most exciting way to spend a morning or afternoon but it is important to get the right one for you and your pet.

There’s no end of choice for small and mid-size cats but it can be a little trickier to find one suitable for bigger pets.  We wanted to see what the best extra large cat carrier for UK cats are and to provide some pros and cons for each as well as suitable links for you to research further or go ahead and buy. 

If you use one of our links, then we may make a small commission on any qualifying purchase 😊

Based outside the UK?  Click the link and if the product is available where you live, it’ll take you to your local page.

 

We’ve also written previous posts geared more to the US market:  Buying an extra-large pet carrier on wheels and what’s the best cat carrier for Maine Coons that you may find useful. 

How to Choose a Best Extra Large Cat Carrier for a UK cat

• It’s important with large cats that you measure and weigh them before buying. The manufacturer might have a different opinion about what large or extra-large actually is.  Going by your own measurements and comparing these to each individual product means you’re more likely to pick the most suitably sized carrier.

   

• With larger cats, weight can play a big role, too, so always check that your cat is within the maximum weight capacity listed.

   

• Soft-sided carriers can dip if there’s a heavy weight inside.  Look for a solid board in the middle or check the product reviews to see what people are saying about supporting the cat’s weight.

   

• You need to think about yourself when picking a cat carrier, too.  Some hard-sided ones are heavy before you’ve even put the cat inside.  Don’t be afraid of exploring less traditional options like a backpack or carriers on wheels if you’re prone to shoulder or back pain.
• If you’re traveling with your cat on a plane, then always double-check the sizing requirements before you fly as large carriers may need a collapsible frame to fit under the seat. 

Best extra large cat carrier for traveling in Aircraft hold – Karlie Transport Box –

This comes in 7 different sizes so you’ll be sure to find the one that’s right for your cat. 

Last update on 2023-05-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This comes in 7 different sizes so you’ll be sure to find the one that’s right for your cat. 

• Top and bottom sections can be unscrewed and stacked on in the other for easier storage
• Easy to assemble
• Lightweight
• Approved by all European airlines (but we always recommend checking).

Pros:

Strong and secure carrier

Suitable for in-hold airline travel

Take your pick of sizes – even for extra-large cats

Cons:

Make sure you measure your cat and pick the correct size.  These pet carriers are also designed for dogs so the sizes are bigger than you might expect for small, medium and large, etc. 

We really like this carrier because it’s sturdy, robust and durable BUT the sizes are going to come up big. If you think you need an extra-large cat carrier, check the dimensions first because it might actually work out as a medium or large.

 

Check Price on Amazon

Soft Sided Extra Large Cat Carrier UK- Mool Crate with Reversible Fleece Mat

This is super spacious for most cats.  As with the previous carrier, it’s important to measure your cat as some of these extra-large carriers may be too big even for big cats.  You can always click the next size down.

Last update on 2023-05-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This is great if you’re short on space as it’s fold down frame means it can be hidden away until you need it. 

• Easy to clean
• Lightweight
• Can be folded down when you don’t need it
• Easy access for the cat
• Two pouches to store paperwork or treats
• Strong design
• Excellent ventilation
• Great for car trips as you can fit it via the seatbelt to the rear seat
• Comes in three sizes

Pros:

Very spacious

Easy to carry

Great for car trips

Easy to store

Cons:

Not suitable from aggressive or difficult cats due to fabric and mesh

This is a roomy and comfortable carrier for big cats but it would also be suitable for smaller cats who like to travel together.  

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Xl Cat Carrier for Carrying – SturdiBag

We’re big fans of SturdiBags and they’re great for anyone who needs to be able to carry their cat on their shoulder. 

 

Last update on 2023-05-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

You can divide this carrier into two parts to transport two smaller cats if you need to. 

• Comfortable carrying strap with leather handle
• Mesh windows can be covered over
• Great for traveling in the car
• Carries up to 50 pounds (22.6kg)

Pros:

Smaller interior suits most cats

Not as bulky as other carriers

Attractive design

Divider means this carrier has real versatility

Cons:

More expensive than other carriers

We really like how this is an extra large cat carrier but it has a really cosy interior to help keep cats calm and comfortable. 

Check Price on Amazon

AmazonBasics Double-Door Folding Metal Dog Crate

This is more of a crate than a carrier but it works for some owners with large cats. 

This carrier has front and side-entrances for easy access

• Durable metal wire construction
• Good visibility of your pet at all time
• Good ventilation
• Can be divided into two sections
• Range of sizes to pick from
• Rounded corners for safety
• Folds flat to store easily

Pros:

Spacious carrier for bigger cat

Secure and safe space for aggressive cats

Easy to carry

Can be used as part of crate training

Cons:

 

You’ll need to add a fleece blanket or bed to make it comfortable

You may not have considered buying a crate but it’s always useful to think beyond traditional carriers. We’ve written a post before on crating a cat which includes some examples to buy. It’s always going to be tough with extra-large carriers so a cage or crate is a good way of expanding your search range. 

Click here to check on Amazon

FAQs

What’s the best size carrier for a cat?

Generally, a cat carrier should be around 1.5 times the size of your cat.  The cat should be able to stand up, lie down and turn comfortably. You should measure from nose to tail and from the paws up.  Take into consideration how wide your cat is if they’re larger.  For medium to large cats, you should always check the maximum weight capacity, too.

How do you get a cat to like a carrier?

You need to make the carrier a familiar space.  Often, we only bring it out when there’s a need to visit a vet which creates bad feelings.  Put the carrier out in your home with the door open so the cat can get used to and (hopefully) start to explore it and place familiar smelling bedding and favourite toys inside, too. You might also like to leave some treats to encourage the cat to go inside but don’t force it. This may take time but it’ll be worth it.  You can also buy cat calming sprays that use synthetic pheromones to help reduce stress and tension.  Follow this link to Amazon if you want to find out more about Feliway cat calming spray

Why does my cat poop in its carrier?

Unless it has a bad stomach from illness, your cat will be pooping because it’s frightened or anxious.  Getting it used to its carrier is key to reduce the fear that’s encouraging it to defecate inside.