10 Best Soft Cat Carriers 2025 in the United States

The Henkelion Large Soft Sided Cat and Pet Carrier is a solid option for daily travel, car journeys, and trips to the pet hospital. It is designed for pets up to 25 lbs, but you should also consider the dimensions to ensure a comfortable fit for your pet (20 x 13 x 13 inches). Made from durable and lightweight polyester fabric, this carrier includes four-side mesh panels for excellent ventilation, allowing easy checks on your pet during travel.

It is not airline-approved, so it's unsuitable for air travel. The carrier is collapsible and easy to store, featuring padded shoulder straps and handles for comfortable portability. Additionally, it is machine washable, making cleaning straightforward.

While it offers a spacious interior for small to medium-sized pets, it's important to reference your pet's length and height beyond just weight when selecting this carrier. The key strengths of this product are its durability, ease of cleaning, and good ventilation. On the downside, the lack of airline approval limits its use for plane travel. It also may not be ideal for larger pets despite the weight capacity due to size constraints.

The Petmate Dog Crate in the 24-inch size is a solid choice for small cats or dogs weighing up to 15 pounds. Its plastic build offers durability and is easy to clean, which is helpful if your pet has accidents or if you use it often for travel. The crate’s ventilation is good, with plenty of holes allowing for fresh air and visibility, helping your pet feel less confined. Having two doors—a front-loading and a top-loading option—makes it easier to get your pet in and out, which is a big plus for both cats and small dogs who can be tricky to manage.

At just under 5 pounds, it’s fairly lightweight and includes a foldable handle, making it reasonably portable for short trips. The size offers enough room for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, which is important for their comfort during travel or vet visits. However, since it’s made of hard plastic rather than soft fabric, it’s less flexible and might take up more space when stored compared to soft carriers that can fold down. Also, while it’s labeled as airline-approved for cargo, it might not be suitable as a carry-on inside the cabin because of its rigid shape.

This carrier suits pet owners looking for a sturdy, easy-to-clean option that meets airline requirements and keeps small pets secure and comfortable. For those seeking something lighter or more compact for storage, a soft-sided carrier might be better, but this crate balances durability and comfort well for small pets.

The GAPZER Pet Carrier is a well-designed option for cat owners, especially those with medium to large cats or small dogs. Its dimensions (18.1"L x 11.8"W x 11.8”H) ensure that it can comfortably accommodate pets up to 20 lbs. One of its standout features is the breathable mesh design, which allows for good air circulation and easy monitoring of your pet.

Additionally, the roller blinds can provide privacy when needed, which is a thoughtful touch for anxious pets. The carrier is also collapsible, making it easy to store and carry around. It features both top and side entry points, adding convenience during loading and unloading, and its lightweight build (2.2 pounds) enhances portability. The inclusion of washable faux lambskin liner ensures your pet has a cozy spot that’s easy to clean.

The durability of the fabric-oxford material adds to its longevity. For carrying, the adjustable shoulder straps and handles make it versatile and comfortable. However, some users might find the size to be a bit bulky for smaller pets or tight spaces. Also, while the mesh design is great for ventilation, it might not be ideal in very cold climates. The GAPZER Pet Carrier is a strong choice for those needing a reliable and comfortable travel solution for their pets.