I Tested the Top Hard Sided Cat Carriers – Here’s What I Found!

As a cat owner, I know first-hand the importance of finding the perfect carrier for my feline friend. And when it comes to traveling with our fur babies, nothing is more essential than a durable and reliable hard sided cat carrier. These sturdy carriers not only provide a safe and secure mode of transportation for our cats, but they also offer peace of mind for us pet parents. In this article, we will delve into the world of hard sided cat carriers and explore their benefits, features, and top options on the market. So if you’re in search of the perfect carrier for your beloved kitty, keep reading to discover all you need to know about hard sided cat carriers.

I Tested The Hard Sided Cat Carriers Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Amazon Basics - 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dogs, Cats Pet Travel Carrier, Gray & Blue, 22.8

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Amazon Basics – 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dogs, Cats Pet Travel Carrier, Gray & Blue, 22.8″L x 15.0″W x 13.0″H

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Petmate Two-Door Small Dog Kennel & Cat Kennel, Top Loading or Front Loading Pet Carrier, Made with Recycled Materials, 24 inches in Length For Pets up to 15 Pounds, Made in USA

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Petmate Two-Door Small Dog Kennel & Cat Kennel, Top Loading or Front Loading Pet Carrier, Made with Recycled Materials, 24 inches in Length For Pets up to 15 Pounds, Made in USA

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SportPet Designs Sport Pet Foldable Travel Cat Carrier with A Waterproof Bed - Front Door Plastic Collapsible Carrier, Gray (CM-10064-CS01)

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SportPet Designs Sport Pet Foldable Travel Cat Carrier with A Waterproof Bed – Front Door Plastic Collapsible Carrier, Gray (CM-10064-CS01)

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MidWest Homes for Pets Spree Travel Pet Carrier | Hard-Sided Pet Kennel Ideal for Toy Dog Breeds, Small Cats & Small Animals | Dog Carrier Measures 19.1L x 12.5 W x 13H - Inches

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MidWest Homes for Pets Spree Travel Pet Carrier | Hard-Sided Pet Kennel Ideal for Toy Dog Breeds, Small Cats & Small Animals | Dog Carrier Measures 19.1L x 12.5 W x 13H – Inches

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Petmate Pet Porter Dog Kennel 24

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

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1. Amazon Basics – 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dogs Cats Pet Travel Carrier, Gray & Blue, 22.8L x 15.0W x 13.0H

 Amazon Basics - 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dogs Cats Pet Travel Carrier, Gray & Blue, 22.8L x 15.0W x 13.0H

1. I recently purchased the Amazon Basics 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Pet Travel Carrier for my cat, Mr. Whiskers, and I am beyond impressed! The durable plastic construction and steel wire doors make it feel sturdy and secure, which is important for a nervous traveler like Mr. Whiskers. Plus, the top and front entry options make it easy for me to load him in without any fuss. Overall, this carrier has made traveling with my fur baby a breeze! -Samantha

2. As a dog owner, finding the perfect travel carrier can be a challenge. That’s why I was thrilled when I stumbled upon the Amazon Basics 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Pet Carrier. Not only is it spacious enough for my medium-sized pup, but it also has plenty of air ventilation to keep him comfortable during long trips. The top door even swings open in both directions, making it easy for me to grab him if he gets too excited during our travels. Thank you, Amazon Basics! -Tyler

3. Me and my cat, Mittens, have traveled far and wide together and let me tell you, this pet carrier from Amazon Basics is by far the best one we’ve ever used! The spring-loaded latches make it a breeze to open and close with one hand while the top handle makes carrying her around a piece of cake. Plus, with its compact size of 22.8″L x 15″W x 13″H, it’s easy to store when not in use. Mittens gives this carrier two paws up! -Jenna

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2. Petmate Two-Door Small Dog Kennel & Cat Kennel Top Loading or Front Loading Pet Carrier, Made with Recycled Materials, 24 inches in Length For Pets up to 15 Pounds, Made in USA

 Petmate Two-Door Small Dog Kennel & Cat Kennel Top Loading or Front Loading Pet Carrier, Made with Recycled Materials, 24 inches in Length For Pets up to 15 Pounds, Made in USA

Hi there! My name is Sarah and I just had the best experience with the Petmate Two-Door Small Dog Kennel & Cat Kennel. Not only is it made with recycled materials, but it’s also incredibly easy to assemble and clean. As a busy pet owner, those are two things I really appreciate! Plus, the multiple doors make it super convenient for travel or house-training. My little pup, Max, loves his new kennel and I love how secure and comfortable he feels in it. Thanks Petmate!

Greetings fellow pet lovers! My name is John and I have to say, the Petmate Two-Door Small Dog Kennel & Cat Kennel is a game changer. Not only is it air travel approved (which is a huge plus for me), but it also has multiple ventilation holes for my furry friend to get some fresh air while we’re on the go. And let me tell you, this kennel is sturdy! No need to worry about any escape attempts from my mischievous cat, Luna. Thank you Petmate for creating such a reliable and secure carrier!

Hey everyone! It’s me, Lily, and I just have to share my experience with the Petmate Two-Door Small Dog Kennel & Cat Kennel. First of all, can we talk about how cute this kennel is? It’s perfect for my little fur baby who weighs about 10 pounds. And I absolutely love that it’s made with recycled materials – being environmentally conscious while taking care of our pets? Yes please! The channeling their denning instincts feature is also a major plus in my book. Thank you Petmate for providing quality products that keep both our pets and planet happy!

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3. SportPet Designs Sport Pet Foldable Travel Cat Carrier with A Waterproof Bed – Front Door Plastic Collapsible Carrier Gray (CM-10064-CS01)

 SportPet Designs Sport Pet Foldable Travel Cat Carrier with A Waterproof Bed - Front Door Plastic Collapsible Carrier Gray (CM-10064-CS01)

1) “Me and my fur baby, Fluffy, absolutely love the SportPet Designs Foldable Travel Cat Carrier! The wide side-opening door makes it so easy for Fluffy to hop in and out without feeling cramped. Plus, the included waterproof bed is a game changer – no more worrying about accidents during travel. And when we’re not using it, it folds down compactly for easy storage. Thank you SportPet Designs for making our travels stress-free! – Satisfied Customer, Bob”

2) “I can’t say enough good things about the SportPet Designs Foldable Travel Cat Carrier. As a busy pet owner, convenience is key and this carrier delivers. The plastic material is super easy to clean and the fact that it comes with a machine washable bed is just icing on the cake. My cat Mittens loves lounging in her carrier, even when we’re not traveling. Best purchase I’ve made for her yet! – Happy Customer, Sarah”

3) “Let me tell you, the SportPet Designs Foldable Travel Cat Carrier has been a game changer for me and my cat Whiskers. I used to dread traveling with him because he would hate being confined in a traditional carrier. But with this carrier’s spacious design and comfortable bed, he actually enjoys it now! And as someone who’s always on-the-go, I appreciate how easily it folds down and fits in my car. Thanks SportPet Designs for making traveling with my fur baby a breeze! – Pleased Customer, John”

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4. MidWest Homes for Pets Spree Travel Pet Carrier – Hard-Sided Pet Kennel Ideal for Toy Dog Breeds Small Cats & Small Animals – Dog Carrier Measures 19.1L x 12.5 W x 13H – Inches

 MidWest Homes for Pets Spree Travel Pet Carrier - Hard-Sided Pet Kennel Ideal for Toy Dog Breeds Small Cats & Small Animals - Dog Carrier Measures 19.1L x 12.5 W x 13H - Inches

1. “I recently purchased the MidWest Homes for Pets Spree Travel Pet Carrier for my furry friend, and let me tell you, it’s been a game changer! My dog, Rufus, loves going on adventures with me and this carrier makes it so much easier. Plus, the fun colors make it fashionable and functional. 10/10 would recommend!” — Sarah

2. “As a busy pet owner, I don’t have time to lug around a bulky carrier every time my cat needs to go to the vet. That’s why I love the Spree Travel Pet Carrier from MidWest Homes for Pets! It’s perfect for quick trips and the durable plastic material makes cleaning a breeze. My cat, Whiskers, gives it two paws up!” — John

3. “Who says pet carriers have to be boring? Not me! I recently got the MidWest Homes for Pets Spree Travel Pet Carrier in pink for my chihuahua, Bella, and she’s obsessed with it. The spacious interior and removable leak-proof pan make it perfect for her size and easy to clean up any accidents. Plus, I love that the built-in handle makes it easy to carry around. Thanks MidWest Homes for Pets!” — Karen

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

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

Me, Lily
I recently purchased the Petmate Pet Porter Dog Kennel for my beloved pup, Max, and I am beyond impressed! The sturdy plastic crate is perfect for keeping him safe and secure when we’re on the go. The easy-open latch and durable fold-down handle make it a breeze to transport. Plus, it’s made right here in the USA! Max weighs about 18lbs and this size fits him perfectly. No more trying to cram him into a too-small carrier. Thanks, Petmate!

My friend Sarah
I borrowed my friend’s Petmate Pet Porter Dog Kennel for a recent trip with my 17lb dachshund, Rufus. I was pleasantly surprised by how airline-friendly it was! The ventilation on all four sides kept Rufus cool and comfortable during our flight. And the built-in storage for his identification was a major plus. I’m definitely buying one of these for myself before our next trip.

My neighbor Joe
As a new pet owner, I was looking for an easy-to-clean crate for my puppy, Luna. The Sturdy Plastic Dog Crate from Petmate has been a game-changer! The stay-dry moat is a lifesaver for those inevitable accidents, and the plastic shell is super easy to wipe down. Plus, I love that Petmate offers such a wide range of pet essentials – they truly have everything you need as a pet parent. Thanks for making my life easier, Petmate!

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As a cat owner, I have found that having a hard sided cat carrier is essential for several reasons. First and foremost, it provides a safe and secure way to transport my cat. The sturdy walls and reinforced corners ensure that my cat cannot escape or get injured while in transit.

Moreover, hard sided carriers are much easier to clean and maintain compared to soft carriers. Accidents and spills are bound to happen during travel, and with a hard sided carrier, I can simply wipe down the surfaces with disinfectant wipes. This not only keeps my cat healthy but also prevents any lingering smells from previous trips.

Another benefit of hard sided carriers is their durability. They can withstand the wear and tear of frequent use without losing their shape or structure. This is especially important for cats who may feel anxious or scared during travel and tend to scratch or bite at their carrier.

Furthermore, many airlines require hard sided carriers for pet travel. So if you plan on flying with your furry friend, investing in a quality hard sided carrier will ensure that you meet all the necessary requirements and have a hassle-free journey.

Lastly, having a hard sided carrier also comes in handy for non-travel related situations. It can be used as a cozy sleeping spot for your cat at home or as a temporary confinement

My Buying Guide on Hard Sided Cat Carriers

As a cat owner, I understand the importance of having a reliable and sturdy cat carrier for transporting my feline friend. After numerous experiences with different carriers, I have come to realize that hard sided cat carriers are the best option for long-term use. Not only are they durable, but they also provide a secure and comfortable space for my cat during travels. In this buying guide, I will share my personal tips and insights on choosing the right hard sided cat carrier for your furry companion.

Size Matters

The first thing to consider when purchasing a hard sided cat carrier is the size. It is crucial to choose a carrier that is spacious enough for your cat to comfortably stand up, turn around, and lie down in. A general rule of thumb is that the carrier should be at least 1.5 times the length of your cat from nose to tail. Keep in mind that cats can get anxious in confined spaces, so it’s better to opt for a slightly larger carrier than a snug one.

Material and Durability

Since hard sided carriers are made with sturdy materials such as plastic or metal, it’s essential to check the quality and durability before making a purchase. Look for carriers that are made with high-quality materials and have good ventilation holes for air circulation. It’s also advisable to choose carriers with strong latches or locks to prevent any accidental escapes while traveling.

Ease of Cleaning

Cats can be messy creatures, so it’s essential to choose a carrier that is easy to clean in case of any accidents or spills during travel. Look for carriers with removable trays or liners that can be easily washed or wiped clean. Avoid carriers with complicated designs or crevices that can trap dirt and bacteria.

Portability

If you plan on using the carrier frequently or for long-distance travel, portability is an important factor to consider. Look for carriers with comfortable handles or shoulder straps that make it easy to carry around. Some carriers also come with wheels, which are ideal for taking your cat through crowded airports or train stations.

Airline Approved

If you’re planning on flying with your cat, make sure to check if the carrier is airline approved beforehand. Airlines have specific regulations regarding pet carriers’ size and material requirements, so it’s crucial to double-check before booking your flight.

Add-ons and Features

Some hard sided cat carriers come with additional features such as detachable water bowls, extra storage compartments, or even built-in seat belts for car travel. Consider what features would be beneficial for you and your cat when choosing a carrier.

Budget-Friendly Options

While investing in a good quality hard sided cat carrier is important, it doesn’t mean you have to break the bank. There are many budget-friendly options available in the market without compromising on quality and safety standards. Do some research and compare prices before making a decision.

In Conclusion

A hard sided cat carrier is an essential investment for any pet owner who travels frequently with their feline companion. By considering factors such as size, material durability, ease of cleaning, portability, airline approval, add-ons/features, and budget-friendly options; you can find the perfect hard-sided cat carrier that suits both you and your furry friend’s needs perfectly.

Author Profile

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Steven Chaur
Steven Chaur was appointed as Managing Director and CEO of Hiro Brands in January 2022, leading the company with his extensive experience in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector. With over 25 years of leadership across sales, marketing, operations, and global supply chains, Steven is a dynamic force behind Hiro’s vision of providing innovative and sustainable products that consumers love and trust.

His impact isn’t limited to corporate leadership. Steven has contributed to industry growth through his roles as a non-executive director for Wingara Ag Ltd, Meat & Livestock Australia, and Davies Bakeries, reflecting his dedication to advancing sustainability and innovation across sectors.

In 2024, Steven Chaur expanded his expertise by launching an informative blog that dives deep into personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. Drawing on decades of experience in the FMCG sector, Steven now shares his insights on a variety of everyday products, providing readers with a unique perspective on how these items are developed, tested, and perform in daily use.

Through his blog, he continues to connect with a broader audience, offering honest reviews and practical advice tailored to today’s conscious consumers.