When looking for a cat carrier for a nervous cat, it’s best to make sure it has a lot of room and good ventilation. This will help keep your cat calm throughout the trip you are planning on taking him. Anxiety in cats is a common problem among cats that travel, and the first step to your cat’s safety and comfort is his carrier.
There are tons of different carriers on the market for a cat that it can sometimes be overwhelming. The main types of carriers you will want to avoid are small cramped carriers and cat backpacks.
Choosing the right carrier for your cat can relieve you from most of the issues you may encounter while traveling. I have compiled a few of the best cat carriers for nervous cats for you to choose from based on your preference.
At the end of the article I also go over a few frequently asked questions related to the topic of nervous cats.
Pet Fit for Life Extra Large Cat Carrier
This cat carrier by Pet Fit for Life is a good example of what to look for in a cat carrier for a nervous cats. Check the current pricing by clicking here to see it on amazon. The main focus of this cat carrier is its large size and well ventilated sides. As you can see from the above picture this carrier exceeds at giving your cat space and has great breath ability. The extra large size of this carrier is enough to hold up to two full grown cats with comfort. Although if you have a nervous cat then it would be best to have them ride solo.
The carrier is fully collapsible which makes it easy to put away and store. It’s made up of a super high quality nylon fabric that has a flexible steel frame for added stability and comfort. The exact measurements of this carrier are as follows: 32″ x 19″ x 19″. The bottom of the carrier is made up of a super soft velvet floor pad, but leaves enough room if you want to place your cat’s bed inside. As an added bonus, this carrier comes with a collapsible litter box for you and your pet’s convenience.
Another thing to look out for with a nervous cat is windows in a cat carrier. This one features two windows and a zippered front door with screens that will provide your cat with proper ventilation. This carrier is perfect for traveling or even the outdoors. On top of the portable litter box, there is also a cat toy and a collapsible bowl that it comes with as well. These don’t really have anything to do with helping a nervous cat, but it’s always nice to get something for free. Pet fit for life offers a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee and will work with you if you are not satisfied with their product.
User Reviews
The overall reviews from amazon about this product are mainly positive. Most users have commented that this carrier has made traveling with their cat a much better experience in general. Most user’s cats loved to ride in their carrier. With positive reviews will always come negative reviews as well.
Most of the complaints about this product is based on how sturdy the build of this carrier is. Some users have commented that their carrier has started to prematurely wear out and fall apart. A few users have also reported that it’s a little too flimsy for their liking.
Pet Magasin Luxary Soft Sided Cat Carrier
This cat carrier by Pet Magasin is another great choice for a nervous cat. To check the current price click here to see it on amazon. This carrier is soft-sided with a comfortable padding on the inside for your cat to relax on. It also boasts plenty of ventilation through the mesh on the sides. Ventilation is one of the best ways to keep a nervous cat calm. Having a carrier with poor ventilation can lead to an increased level of anxiety which can make an already nervous cat even worse.
Included is a carry-handle and adjustable shoulder strap to make traveling and transportation with this carrier easy. It’s also very sturdy and not flimsy which is a complaint a lot of owners have about other brands. This carrier will actually hold its shape when the panels are zipped up. Storage is easy with this carrier. Simply fold the carrier and store it away.
You also don’t have to worry about getting this carrier wet as it is made of waterproof materials. This also makes it very easy to clean. The exact dimensions of this carrier are: 18″ x 11″ x 10″. This is the perfect size for most cats and is very lightweight at 2.2 pounds. The bright color of this carrier also helps with making it stick out if you were to misplace it or make it easier to find during travel. Pet magasin offers a 2-year warranty and a 100% money back guarantee to ensure customer satisfaction.
User Reviews
The overall reviews of this carrier on amazon are positive. Many users have commented about the solid structure and durability of this cat carrier. A few of the negative reviews stated that their 15 pound cat was too big to fit into the carrier. A few other negative reviews also stated that the carrier was damaged during shipping.
Amazon Basics Soft-Sided Cat Carrier
This cat carrier is another great pick for a nervous or anxious cat and this is actually from amazon. Click here to see the current price of this cat carrier on amazon. As you can see from the picture, this cat carrier is very well ventilated. Every side has mesh and is open for your cat to see and breath from. The bottom is also very sturdy to keep your cat safe while traveling. Basic is the best way to describe this carrier.
This carrier has two different options for carrying. You can throw it over your shoulder with the adjustable strap, or you can carry it using the carry handles. The carrier is very study and offers zip up sides for easy access. The recommended max load of this cat carrier is 22 pounds. The dimensions of this carrier are: 19.7″ x 10.2″ x 11.2″.
User Reviews
The overall reviews of this cat carrier are positive. A lot of users have commented that this is an excellent price for what is offered. Other users have also commented that their cats were comfortable inside the carrier and loved traveling in it.
A few of the negative reviews of this product contain comments stating that this cat carrier is not big enough for big adult cats. It’s better to be used with smaller sized cats for optimum comfort and safety. You can’t go wrong with the price to quality when it comes to amazon’s cat carrier.
How to Choose the Right Carrier for a Nervous Cat
You will strictly be wanting to look at the most spacious cat carriers on the market that you can find. The more space the better it will be in keeping your cat calm. If your cat carrier is too small and cramped it will make you cat feel claustrophobic and his anxiety levels will be going through the roof.
To go along with lots of space, you will also want to make sure this carrier excels at ventilation. This means that we want to see holes. Holes everywhere. We want your cat to be able to breath from any corner or position that he gets into. A carrier with poor ventilation will lead to your cat having a panic attack. His breathing will be short and shallow which is something you won’t want to experience if you are 10,000 feet in the air.
Make sure the cat carrier is easily accessible. The carrier must have an easy way to open and close the carrier in case of an emergency. Zippers are the preferred method of access when it comes to a nervous cat. You can rely on zippers to do its job.
Lots of windows. You want your cat to know whats going on. Most carriers only have one opening that your cat can see out of, but if he hears a noise from behind and he can’t see what’s going on, that will cause a problem. Look for a minimum of 3 windows when searching for a carrier.
How Do I Get a Nervous Cat into a Carrier?
Your cat will do anything he can to escape that carrier. The best thing to do is to introduce him slowly to his new carrier. Place it in the middle of the living room so that he can walk around and examine it. Leave it open and he may even go inside himself without your help.
Be sure to reward your cat when you see any type of positive behavior by throwing him a little treat. This is called positive reinforcement and is the first crucial step to training your cat to get used to his carrier. If all else fails go ahead and capture your cat with a towel or pillowcase and in he goes.
Final Thoughts
When searching for a cat carrier for a nervous cat always remember to look for a very roomy carrier that is well ventilated. The more space and ventilation your carrier has will directly affect how nervous or anxious your cat will be during the trip. If you are still having problems with your cat and his carrier then it may be necessary to sedate him before going out. You can check out my article that I have written about how to sedate a cat for travel.
