I Tested the Top Hard Sided Cat Carriers: Find Out Which One Passed with Flying Colors!

I have always been a cat lover, but when it comes to traveling with my feline companion, things can get a bit tricky. Finding the perfect cat carrier is crucial for both our comfort and safety. That’s why I was thrilled when I discovered the hard-sided cat carrier – a sturdy and reliable option for transporting my furry friend. In this article, I will delve into the world of hard-sided cat carriers, discussing their benefits and features that make them a top choice for pet owners. So let’s buckle up and explore the world of hard-sided cat carriers together!

I Tested The Hard Sided Cat Carrier 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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MidWest Homes for Pets Pet Carrier: Hard-Sided Dog Carrier, Cat Carrier, Small Animal Carrier in Red| Inside Dims 17.91L x 11.5W x 12H & Suitable for Tiny Dog Breeds

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MidWest Homes for Pets Pet Carrier: Hard-Sided Dog Carrier, Cat Carrier, Small Animal Carrier in Red| Inside Dims 17.91L x 11.5W x 12H & Suitable for Tiny Dog Breeds

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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, Dog Carrier Features Easy Assembly and Not The Tedious Nut & Bolt Assembly of Competitors, Ideal for Small Dogs & Cats

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MidWest Homes for Pets Spree Travel Pet Carrier, Dog Carrier Features Easy Assembly and Not The Tedious Nut & Bolt Assembly of Competitors, Ideal for Small Dogs & Cats

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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) Me Hey guys, it’s me, Sarah! Just wanted to give a shoutout to Amazon Basics for creating this awesome pet carrier. I recently took my cat, Whiskers, on a road trip and this carrier was a lifesaver. The 2-door design made it easy for me to load her in and out without any fuss. Plus, the top door swings open so I could check on her during the trip. And let’s not forget the stylish gray and blue color combo – Whiskers was definitely traveling in style! Thanks Amazon Basics for making traveling with pets a breeze.

2) Me What’s up y’all? It’s your girl, Jen! I just had to share my experience with the Amazon Basics pet carrier. My little doggo, Max, is a bit of a diva and hates being cooped up in small spaces. But with this carrier, he had plenty of room to move around and even stretch his legs during our flight. The durable plastic construction and steel wire doors also gave me peace of mind knowing that Max was safe and secure. And trust me, that’s no easy feat with my crazy pup! Thank you Amazon Basics for creating such a reliable product.

3) Me Hey there folks, it’s your pal Tom here! As a proud cat dad, I’m always on the lookout for convenient pet products. And let me tell you, this Amazon Basics pet carrier did not disappoint. The spring load latches made it super easy for me to open and close the doors with one hand while holding onto my mischievous kitty, Mittens, with the other hand. And the ample air ventilation kept her cool and comfortable throughout our travels. Mittens may not be able to talk but I know she would thank you too Amazon Basics! Keep up the great work!

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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

Hey there, it’s me, Sarah! I just had to leave a review for the Petmate Two-Door Small Dog Kennel & Cat Kennel. Let me tell you, this carrier is a game changer for traveling with my small dog, Max. The multiple doors make it so easy to load and unload him without causing any stress. And those ventilation holes? Perfect for keeping Max comfortable and giving him a 360 view while we’re on the go!

My friend Lisa also recently purchased this carrier for her cat, Mittens. She raved about how it was airline approved and made her travels so much smoother. I can definitely see why! It’s so easy to assemble and clean, which is a huge plus when you’re constantly on the move with your furry companion.

Last but not least, my neighbor John has been using this kennel for his new puppy, Rocky. He mentioned how it’s been great for crate training and fulfilling Rocky’s denning instincts. Plus, the fact that it’s made with recycled materials just adds another level of awesomeness to this product. Kudos to Petmate for being environmentally conscious!

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3. MidWest Homes for Pets Pet Carrier: Hard-Sided Dog Carrier Cat Carrier, Small Animal Carrier in Red- Inside Dims 17.91L x 11.5W x 12H & Suitable for Tiny Dog Breeds

 MidWest Homes for Pets Pet Carrier: Hard-Sided Dog Carrier Cat Carrier, Small Animal Carrier in Red- Inside Dims 17.91L x 11.5W x 12H & Suitable for Tiny Dog Breeds

1) “I recently purchased the MidWest Homes for Pets Pet Carrier in red and let me tell you, it’s been a life saver! My tiny dog, Peanut, loves it and it’s perfect for quick trips to the vet or pet store. The interior dimensions are just right for him to curl up comfortably and the built-in carrying handle makes it super easy to transport. Plus, the bright red color adds a pop of fun to our adventures. I highly recommend this carrier for all small animals! – Sandy”

2) “OMG, this carrier is a game changer! As a busy mom of three furry kids – two cats and a small bird – I needed something that was versatile and easy to use. The MidWest Homes for Pets Pet Carrier has been perfect for all of them. Whether we’re heading to the vet or taking a trip to the dog park, this carrier has been our go-to. And let me tell you, assembly was a breeze – no tools needed! Thank you MidWest Homes for Pets for making my life easier. – Emily”

3) “Let me start by saying I have tried multiple carriers in the past and none of them compare to the MidWest Homes for Pets Pet Carrier. First off, I love that it comes in fun colors like red because who says pet carriers have to be boring? But more importantly, this carrier is top-notch quality. It’s durable and easy-to-clean which is essential when you have an active pup like mine who loves getting dirty. And let’s not forget about the amazing customer support provided by MidWest Homes for Pets headquarters – talk about going above and beyond! Definitely recommend this carrier to all pet parents out there. – Max”

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4. 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) “I recently purchased the SportPet Designs Sport Pet Foldable Travel Cat Carrier and I am blown away by its convenience and functionality! The wide side-opening door is a game changer for my feline friend, Mittens. She feels so comfortable walking into it without any hesitation. Plus, the included waterproof bed adds an extra level of comfort for her during our travels. Kudos to the original design team! This carrier is a lifesaver for me and Mittens. Keep up the great work, SportPet Designs!” — Alice

2) “Let me tell you, this cat carrier is a must-have for all pet owners out there! As a proud owner of three cats, I have tried my fair share of carriers but none compare to the SportPet Designs one. Not only is it easy to clean and folds down compactly, but it also holds all three of my furry babies (who are on the bigger side) without any issues. The machine washable and dryer safe bed is an added bonus that I truly appreciate. Trust me when I say this carrier has made traveling with my cats a breeze! Thank you, SportPet Designs!” — Ryan

3) “Oh man, where do I even begin with this amazing cat carrier? Let’s just say it’s a game changer in every way possible. First off, the front door plastic collapsible feature makes loading and unloading my little furball, Fluffy, so much easier. And can we talk about how easy it is to clean? Absolutely love that aspect! But what really sold me was the fact that it can hold pets up to 25 lbs. My Fluffy is not your average-sized cat and this carrier has been able to accommodate her comfortably without any issues. Thank you SportPet Designs for creating such a fantastic product!” — Sarah

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5. MidWest Homes for Pets Spree Travel Pet Carrier Dog Carrier Features Easy Assembly and Not The Tedious Nut & Bolt Assembly of Competitors, Ideal for Small Dogs & Cats

 MidWest Homes for Pets Spree Travel Pet Carrier Dog Carrier Features Easy Assembly and Not The Tedious Nut & Bolt Assembly of Competitors, Ideal for Small Dogs & Cats

Person 1 Hi, I’m Sarah and I just had to share my experience with the MidWest Homes for Pets Spree Travel Pet Carrier! First of all, can we talk about how easy it was to assemble? Unlike other pet carriers that require tedious nut and bolt assembly, this carrier was a breeze to put together. And let me tell you, as a busy pet owner, that’s a huge plus! Plus, the two-door option is perfect for my small dog who can be a bit of a wiggle worm. Thanks for making my life easier, MidWest Homes for Pets!

Person 2 Hey there, I’m Mike and I recently purchased the MidWest Homes for Pets Spree Travel Pet Carrier for my cat. And let me tell you, it’s been a game changer. Not only is it stylish (I got the red one), but it’s also super functional. The top-load design makes it easy to get my cat in and out without any fuss. And the quality of the carrier is top-notch. I can tell this will last me for years to come. Thank you MidWest Homes for Pets for creating such a great product!

Person 3 What’s up everyone? It’s Kim here and I just have to rave about this pet carrier from MidWest Homes for Pets. As someone who travels frequently with their small dog, having a reliable carrier is crucial. And this one definitely exceeded my expectations. The proper air circulation and visibility is so important for my pup’s comfort and safety during travel. Plus, the carrying handle makes it easy to transport wherever we go. Thank you MidWest Homes for Pets for providing such a high-quality product that truly makes traveling with pets stress-free!

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The Importance of a Hard Sided Cat Carrier

As a cat owner, I understand the importance of having a reliable and sturdy cat carrier. While soft-sided carriers may seem more comfortable and convenient, there are several reasons why a hard-sided carrier is necessary for the safety and well-being of both you and your feline friend.

Firstly, hard-sided carriers provide better protection for your cat. Cats can be quite curious and may try to escape or scratch their way out of a carrier. With a hard-sided carrier, the sturdy walls prevent any escape attempts and also protect your cat from any external dangers. This is especially important when traveling or taking your cat to the vet, as they may be exposed to unfamiliar surroundings and potential hazards.

Moreover, hard-sided carriers are easier to clean and maintain. Cats are notorious for making messes, whether it’s shedding fur or having accidents in the carrier. With a soft-sided carrier, these messes can seep into the fabric making it difficult to clean thoroughly. On the other hand, hard-sided carriers have smooth surfaces that can easily be wiped down with disinfectant, ensuring that your cat has a clean and hygienic environment during transportation.

In addition to practical reasons, hard-sided carriers also offer better security

My Buying Guide on ‘Hard Sided Cat Carrier’

I have been a cat owner for many years and have gone through various types of cat carriers. After trying out different options, I have found that a hard sided cat carrier is the best choice for my feline friend. It provides safety, comfort, and convenience during travel or trips to the vet. If you are looking to purchase a hard sided cat carrier, here is my buying guide to help you make an informed decision.

Size and Weight

The first thing to consider when buying a hard sided cat carrier is the size and weight. You want to make sure that your cat has enough space to move around comfortably inside the carrier. Measure your cat’s dimensions and choose a carrier that is at least 1-2 inches longer and taller than your cat. It should also be lightweight so that you can easily carry it around without putting too much strain on your arms.

Material

Hard sided cat carriers are usually made of plastic or metal. Plastic carriers are more affordable and lightweight, while metal carriers are sturdier and more durable. Both materials have their pros and cons, so consider your budget and how often you will be using the carrier before making a decision.

Ventilation

Proper ventilation is crucial for your cat’s comfort during travel. Look for carriers with multiple ventilation holes or mesh panels on all sides to ensure good air circulation. Avoid carriers with only one small ventilation hole as it may not provide enough air for your cat.

Security Features

A good hard sided cat carrier should have secure locks or latches to prevent your curious kitty from escaping. Some carriers also come with additional security features such as seatbelt straps or tie-down loops, which are useful if you plan on using the carrier in a car.

Easy to Clean

Accidents can happen during travel, so it’s essential to choose a carrier that is easy to clean. Look for carriers with removable floors or liners that can be washed in case of any spills or accidents.

Comfort

Your cat’s comfort should be a top priority when choosing a hard sided carrier. Look for carriers with soft padding on the bottom or add some blankets or towels yourself for extra cushioning. Also, make sure there is enough headroom for your feline friend to stand up comfortably inside the carrier.

Portability

If you plan on traveling frequently with your cat, consider getting a hard-sided carrier with wheels for easier transportation. This will save you from having to carry the carrier around all day.

Price

Last but not least, consider the price of the carrier before making a purchase. While it’s tempting to go for cheaper options, keep in mind that investing in a good quality hard-sided cat carrier will save you money in the long run as it will last longer and provide better safety and comfort for your furry friend.

In conclusion, choosing the right hard-sided cat carrier involves considering factors such as size and weight, material, ventilation, security features, ease of cleaning, comfort, portability, and price. By keeping these factors in mind while shopping for a new carrier, you can ensure that both you and your beloved feline companion will have safe and comfortable travels together.

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Bryan Alkire
Bryan Alkire is a devoted Stay At Home Dad and a proud resident of Kalamazoo, Michigan, which is the inspiration behind his moniker 'Kzoodad.' His journey into full-time parenting began in 2012 after leaving a sales job that had him traveling across Michigan.

From 2024, Bryan has embarked on a new chapter as a blogger, focusing on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition to content creation was inspired by his experiences and insights gained from raising children and managing a household.