Imagine this: you finally book that dream vacation, but then you remember the journey with your beloved, sizable feline friend. Does the thought of wrestling a grumpy Maine Coon or a sturdy Ragdoll into a cramped, flimsy carrier fill you with dread? You are not alone! Finding a spacious, safe, and stress-free travel solution for your large cat can feel like a genuine headache. Many standard carriers simply don’t offer the room your big buddy needs to stay comfortable, leading to anxious car rides and difficult vet visits.
We understand the struggle. Your large cat deserves a travel crate that feels more like a temporary, secure den than a tiny cage. That’s why we dove deep into the world of heavy-duty, extra-large pet carriers. By the end of this guide, you will know exactly what features matter most—from ventilation to durability—and you will discover our top picks for carriers built for bigger breeds.
Keep reading to ditch the carrier confusion and secure the perfect travel home for your magnificent companion!
Top Large Cat Carrier Recommendations
- 【Dimensions】LARGE SIZE pet carrier for medium, large cats or small dogs, HIGHER AND WIDER than other carriers on market, Recommended max load of 20 lbs (9 kg). Measures: 18.1"L x 11.8"W x 11.8”H. Please don't choose the carrier only based on weight but also reference your pet's length and height.
- 【Breathable and Private】GAPZER large cat carrier designed mesh all around to ensure normal circulation of air inside the box and easy for you to check on your pet. These roller blinds can be put down if your pet feels nervous.
- 【Collapsible & Lightweight】The cat carrier can be folded into a pad to save your storage space and is easy to take out. Top and side entry.
- 【Washable Liner】The large cat carrier is made from durable fabric-oxford material, and the faux lambskin liner which offers a cozy space for your pet can be removed entirely and machine-washed.
- 【Multiple-Ways of Use】 Designed for two carrying ways-shoulder straps and handles will be adjusted as you need. Filled the soft cotton into the cat backpack shoulder strap, and increased the width on it, helping to reduce load and relieve fatigue.
- The large pet carrier is only suitable for daily travel, car seat journey and pet hospital etc. Do not place it under an airplane seat
- The adjustable shoulder strap help you hands-free carrying and makes it the most safe and convenient pet carrier bag for your travel
- The four-side mesh will not only give a safe and comfortable travel for your pet, but also easy for you to check on your pet
- This dog carrier is easy to carry and store, which has a padded shoulder strap and handles
- The large cat carrier is designed for small and medium pets within 18" x 12" x 12"(smaller than product) and 25 lbs. Please do not choose your carrier only based on weight. Reference your pets' length and height in selecting a carrier size.
- Spacious and Comfortable for Two Cats This extra-large cat carrier bag comfortably fits two cats, providing them with enough space to relax and stretch out during travel. Perfect for road trips or vet visits, your cats will feel at ease in this roomy, cozy carrier.
- Quick Setup and Easy Storage Pop open the bag in seconds for immediate use, and fold it flat when you’re done. No tools required. The carrier comes with a storage bag for easy, organized storage in your car or closet.
- Secure and Stable for Travel With sturdy metal zippers and a reinforced frame, this cat carrier ensures stability during travel. Adjustable safety straps make car rides smooth, keeping the carrier securely in place while your cats are comfortably inside.
- Breathable Mesh and Clear Views Four sides of breathable mesh allow air to circulate, while giving your cats a clear view of their surroundings. This reduces travel stress and helps your pets stay curious and calm during the journey.
- Separate or Share – Your Choice The removable divider allows you to either give each cat its own space or remove it when they want to snuggle together. Plus, side pockets are perfect for storing treats and toys, keeping everything neat and easy to access.
- Hard sided pet carrier with 2 doors for front and top entry; suitable for cat or medium size dog weighing 12 - 20 pounds
- Durable plastic construction with steel wire doors; screws keep the top and bottom sections securely connected
- Spring load latches ensure easy one-handed door opening and closing; top door swings open to the left or right and includes a top carry handle
- Plenty of air ventilation on the sides, top, and back of the carrier
- Note: Be sure to measure the size of the pet when choosing carrier size
- Pet Carrier: 19” L x 12” W x 12” H, Recommended max load of 22 lbs cats small dogs. Please do not choose your carrier based on weight--please reference your pet's length and height in selecting a pet carrier size.
- Not for airlines. Every airline has a specific set of rules and regulations, please contact with airline before flying with your cats small dogs.
- Mesh windows for ventilation, top and side entry with locking zippers for safety. Carrying handles, adjustable shoulder strap which can also be used as seatbelt, and back strap can fasten the pet carrier to your luggage.
- Pet carrier comes with a removable base insert, which creates a solid surface for your pet to stand on, along with a removable & hand washable cozy fleece pet bed, which offers a cozy sleeping space for your traveling cats small dogs.
- "Toys for pets, of textile materials". Mostly used as a Toy of Fabric Pet Home for pets playing and relaxing.
- 【Oversized Free-Movement Space】: Prutapet large cat carrier has a spacious 24”x16.5”x16.5” interior, guaranteeing pets a cozy trip. Unlike tight backpacks, it lets them stand, turn and unwind freely, fitting cats over 20 lbs, multi-cats, small & medium dogs.
- 【Specially Optimized for Car Travel】: Prutapet large cat carrier is equipped with a dedicated seat belt buckle for cars, suitable for horizontal or vertical placement, as well as front and rear seat arrangements. It comes with buckles and shoulder straps that can firmly fix the carrier onto the car seat, providing all-round safety and stability for your beloved pet during the journey and adding peace of mind to your travel.
- 【Easy to Fold and Carry】: In just three steps, it can be opened or stored, enabling you to set up a comfort nest for your pet anywhere. The handle and shoulder strap combo allows for effortless moving, even with big pets.
- 【Excellent Breathability & Comfort】: This pet crate is equipped with 4 large ventilation openings, using high-density anti-scratch and breathable mesh fabric to provide fresh air for pets throughout the journey. The bottom is equipped with a removable waterproof mat, and the soft touch of the lamb wool fabric can effectively relieve your pet's travel anxiety, making the travel more pleasant.
- 【Enjoy a smooth outing experience】: The extra-large opening on the top is designed to easily handle cats that resist going out. Each curtain zipper is equipped with an anti-unlocking buckle, making it impossible for even the "escape experts" to get away. An additional safety lock buckle is provided inside the carrier. After connecting it to the pet's collar and harness, it effectively prevents accidental escapes, making your trips more reassuring.
- 【EXTRA LARGE SPACE】Petskd extra large cat carrier is designed with generous space measuring 24“ × 17” × 17“, which can hold large cats or medium dogs weighing up to 55 pounds, especially satisfying the need for medium to large cats to travel comfortably. Its expandable area measures 14“ × 12.5“ × 12.5“, providing pets with more room to move around.Additionally, this cat car carrier is specifically designed for large pets, making it ideal for car travel, vet visit, camping , and various other scenarios.
- 【Privacy Roll-Up Shade】This large cat carrier features multiple privacy roll-up shades. When traveling with cats, the owner can open and close them freely as needed to meet the diverse needs of different cats.During car rides, vet visits, or walks, lowering the side shades can soothe anxious Siamese cats or sensitive Maine Coons. When curious orange cats or American Shorthairs want to peer through the reinforced mesh, simply roll up the shades to let them observe freely. This satisfies their curiosity and reduces boredom or restlessness. The privacy shades act like a “cat mood regulator,” offering flexible adjustments to make travel both safe and enjoyable.
- 【SUITABLE FOR TRAVELING BY CAR】Cat travel carrier with litter box features waterproof fabric that effectively repels rain. It fastens securely to car seats via seatbelt loops, minimizing movement and ensuring a smooth ride for your pet. Includes a foldable water bowl and multiple storage pockets to meet feeding and storage needs, with a built-in removable waterproof bottom mat for stain protection. The included litter box with lid 14“ x 11.5” x 5" makes it easy to carry and clean up when traveling long distances.Includes an ID card and bell for easy identification, with a built-in removable hammock for your cat to rest.
- 【Five-Sided Ventilation】This xl cat carrier features ventilation on five sides, allowing your cat to breathe fresh air at all times while making it easy for you to care for your pet during travel. The top incorporates a half-mesh, half-roll-up shade design that effectively blocks sunlight while ensuring air circulation, allowing you to observe your pet at all times. A small mesh door at the bottom right corner enables your cat to monitor its surroundings when strangers or other animals approach, avoiding direct confrontation with potential threats. Additionally, multiple entry points throughout the carrier give your pet freedom to choose where to enter or exit.
- 【SAFE AND STURDY】Large pet carrier is made of durable, scratch-resistant oxford fabric and a sturdy metal frame, ensuring a stable structure that won't deform. The upgraded mesh material effectively prevents pets from chewing through it. The built-in safety strap and zipper lock design prevent pets from opening the door or scratching the zipper, giving you peace of mind when traveling. The handle and shoulder strap design allows for easy carrying, freeing up your hands and ensuring a smooth and convenient journey.
- 【3-STEPS QUICK SET-UP】 Step on the grey strap at the bottom of the soft-sided pet carrier and lift it up until you hear the "CLICK". Then join top bars with retractable spring. It's easy to set up or fold it down in one minute.
- 【30% SMALLER FOLDING SIZE THAN REGULAR】 The portable carrier is made of strong lightweight steel tube, and buttom tubes are retractable. With the updated collapsible design, the folding size is 30% smaller than other on the maket that doesn’t take too much spaces to store. Easier to leave it in any corner.
- 【MULTI SECURITY DESIGN】 Seat Belt Buckle- The design of webbing loop help fasten the carrier to the seat belt, securing it on back seat stop from sliding when cross-country move or road trip. Locking zippers-to help release your worrying about opening by smarter cats; Security Strap- designed to attach to harness to keep the pet inside the carrier safely.
- 【MULTI-WAYS TO CARRY】 The shoulder strap is detachable and the velcro padded hand carrying strap provides a comfortable carrying option. Accessory pockets on the top and sides provide much spaces to store waste bags, treats, and more.
- 【PLENTY OF ROOM TO PLAY】 24"×16"×16" Extra lage soft-sided pet carrrier provides plenty of room for at least two cats or one medium dog to rest insde, stand up and turn and move around freely. Screened panels on all sides offer better sunlight and breathability. Three mesh windows offer multiple access for pets.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Large Cat Carriers
Choosing the right carrier for your large feline friend is important. A good carrier keeps your cat safe and comfortable during travel. This guide helps you pick the best one.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, look for several vital features. These make the carrier better for you and your cat.
- Size Matters: The carrier must be big enough. Your cat should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. A cramped space causes stress.
- Secure Locking Mechanisms: Doors and latches must be strong. You do not want your cat opening the door by accident. Look for double-locking systems.
- Ventilation: Good airflow is crucial. Look for carriers with mesh windows or multiple air vents on several sides. This prevents overheating.
- Easy Cleaning: Accidents happen, especially during long trips. Carriers with removable, washable bedding or plastic surfaces clean up fast.
- Portability Options: Check how you carry it. Some have sturdy handles. Others offer a shoulder strap. A carrier with both options gives you flexibility.
Important Materials
The material affects durability and comfort.
Hard Plastic Carriers
These are very durable and easy to wipe clean. They offer excellent protection if something bumps into the carrier. However, they can be bulkier to store when not in use.
Soft-Sided Carriers
These are usually lighter and easier to store because they often collapse. They often feel more like a cozy den to the cat. Make sure the fabric is tough, like heavy-duty nylon, so your cat cannot scratch through it.
Metal Components
Check the metal parts, like zippers and hinges. Rust-resistant metal lasts longer, especially if you live in a humid area.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality is often seen in the small details.
What Makes a Carrier High Quality?
A high-quality carrier uses thick, non-toxic plastic or very sturdy fabric. Smooth, reliable zippers that do not snag improve the daily experience greatly. Good carriers often include a soft, removable mat inside.
What Lowers the Quality?
Thin, flimsy plastic cracks easily. Cheap zippers break quickly. If the carrier smells strongly of chemicals right out of the box, that is a red flag. Poorly designed doors that sag or do not close flush also reduce safety.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use the carrier most often.
Vet Visits vs. Long Trips
For quick trips to the vet, a carrier that opens from the top is very helpful. It lets the vet staff examine the cat without pulling them out the front door, which cats often hate.
Car Travel
If you travel often by car, look for carriers designed to be secured by a seatbelt. This stops the carrier from sliding around during sudden stops. The carrier should face the back of the seat for better stability.
Airline Travel
If you plan to fly, you must check the airline’s specific size requirements. Most in-cabin carriers must fit under the seat. Soft-sided carriers are usually preferred for this use case because they can squeeze slightly under the seat.
Remember, a familiar carrier reduces travel stress. Introduce the carrier to your cat weeks before a big trip. Leave it open in the house with treats inside. This makes the carrier a safe space, not just a scary travel box.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Large Cat Carriers
Q: How do I measure my large cat for the right carrier size?
A: Measure your cat from nose to the base of the tail. Then measure them standing up from the floor to the top of their head. The carrier should be at least 2 inches longer, taller, and wider than these measurements.
Q: Are hard-sided carriers better than soft-sided ones?
A: Neither is always better. Hard carriers offer more impact protection. Soft carriers are lighter and easier to store. Choose based on your primary need: protection or portability.
Q: Can I use a dog carrier for my large cat?
A: Yes, often you can, but check the door type. Cats often feel safer with smaller openings. Make sure the door has small enough openings so your cat cannot slip out.
Q: What is the best way to keep my cat cool in the carrier?
A: Ensure excellent ventilation on at least three sides. Never leave the carrier directly in the sun. You can place a frozen water bottle wrapped in a towel inside for a cool spot.
Q: How do I stop my cat from scratching the carrier mesh?
A: If your cat scratches excessively, switch to a hard-sided carrier, or choose a soft carrier made with reinforced, heavy-duty wire mesh instead of thin fabric mesh.
Q: Should the carrier have a top-loading door?
A: Top-loading doors are a huge benefit for anxious cats or vet visits. It allows you to place the cat in gently, rather than forcing them in through the front.
Q: Are carriers with wheels useful for very large cats?
A: Yes, wheels help immensely when moving a heavy carrier across airports or parking lots. Just make sure the wheels lock securely when parked.
Q: How often should I clean the carrier?
A: Clean the carrier completely after every major trip or accident. For regular use, wipe down the floor tray weekly to keep it fresh.
Q: What is the safest way to secure the carrier in a car?
A: Always place the carrier on the floor behind the front seat or secure it using the seatbelt looped through the carrier handles or openings, ensuring it does not move.
Q: How do I make the carrier feel less scary for my cat?
A: Place familiar bedding or a favorite blanket inside the carrier when it is at home. Feed your cat treats near the door, and eventually, put the treats just inside the door.