How I Learned to Choose A Bag For A Cat– A Guide Based on Experience
As a cat owner who often takes my little furball Mimi on errands and weekend outings, I used to struggle with one question:
How do you choose A bag for a cat that actually works?
After trying several types—some comfy, some disasters—I’ve learned a few things. If you’re shopping for a cat bag, let me save you time and stress.
1. Know What You’ll Use It For
At first, I just wanted “a cute bag.” Big mistake.
You need to start by asking: Where will I actually use this?
| Purpose | My Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Quick vet visits or car rides | Soft-sided carrier bag — light and easy |
| Walking around town or hiking | A cat backpack — hands-free and secure |
| Long-distance travel or flights | Hard-walled or airline-approved bags with good ventilation |
Tip: For airline travel, I use the EverBliss Cataway Space Cat Backpack — soft, breathable, and accepted by most airlines.
2. Match the Bag to Your Cat’s Personality
All cats are different. Mimi is confident and curious, so she loves bubble backpacks where she can peek out. But if your cat is shy or gets stressed easily, enclosed carriers feel safer for them.
| Cat Personality | Best Bag Type |
|---|---|
| Confident / playful | Transparent or semi-open backpacks |
| Nervous / shy | Fully enclosed, quiet interior |
| Large or heavy | Reinforced or hard-shell bag |
| Kitten or senior | Soft interior lining for comfort= |
I learned this the hard way—once Mimi escaped from a flimsy zipper bag at the vet. Lesson: never underestimate your cat’s escape skills!
3. Measure Your Cat (Don’t Skip This!)
You might think, “My cat will fit in anything.” Nope.
Make sure your cat can stand, turn, and lie down comfortably.
Here’s what I do:
- Measure length: nose to tail base
- Measure height: floor to top of head while sitting
- Add 2–3 inches to both for space
I once bought a stylish tote that Mimi barely fit in. She refused to use it again. Cats remember bad experiences.
4. Key Features to Look For
After testing multiple carriers, I now check for:
Breathable mesh sides (no sweaty kitties)
Secure zippers – ideally lockable
Soft inner padding – cats nap better in soft spaces
Multiple access points – top + side is ideal
Easy to clean interior
Comfortable straps for me (especially with backpacks)
Bonus if it has a little window—Mimi LOVES looking outside while we walk.
My Go-To Recommendation
If you’re overwhelmed, here’s a quick pick based on my experience:
Best All-Around Cat Bag：Floof Voyager Cat Backpack – stylish, breathable, and sturdy
Best for Travel： Castle Cat Carrier– TSA-approved and crash-tested
Best Budget Option： Blue Port Cat Backpack – affordable and surprisingly durable
Final Thoughts
Choosing a cat bag isn’t just about how it looks—it’s about safety, comfort, and your cat’s trust.
If you pick the right one, travel becomes easier. Your cat won’t panic. You won’t sweat through your shirt trying to zip them in. Everyone wins.
Give your cat time to get used to the new bag at home. Toss in a blanket that smells like them. Let them explore it first.
Trust me, once your cat feels secure in their carrier, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it.
