Best Cat Backpacks Review Plus Buying Guide For 2022-2023

Best Cat Backpacks Review Plus Buying Guide For 2023-2024

February 19, 2023

Best Cat Backpacks Review Plus Buying Guide For 2023-2024 – Cat backpacks are a fantastic way to introduce your cat to the world around them without having to worry about them getting lost or hurting themselves.

They’re especially helpful for senior cats or lame cats that struggle with mobility. Furthermore, cat backpacks have proven to be a less stressful mode of travel for our feline friends than the standard cat crate, because your cat is being held close to you, allowing them to pick up your scent and calm down.

This makes them a great handsfree alternative for vet visits with anxious kitties. Cat backpacks come in all shapes, sizes, patterns, and materials. So there is a backpack out there for every kitty – even the scratchy kind.

Lucky for you we’ve sifted through the kitty backpack market for you and selected some of the best cat backpacks selling today to hopefully make your shopping experience more straightforward and stress-free.

To see them keep reading my Best Cat Backpacks Review Plus Buying Guide For 2023-2024.

Best Overall: Lollimeow Pet Carrier Backpack Amazon’s Choice

As a bubble backpack, you get an excellent combination of wide view for your cat plus ample ventilation to keep him happy. This easy to carry space capsule backpack also has another trick up its sleeve, with an expandable back to create a cozy tent bed.

Made from waterproof materials, the front of the carrier is clear bubble window, ideal for the cat that likes to see where he’s going. Plus, there’s nine large ventilation holes to let all the fresh air in. This is a cat window backpack which you wear on your front and has a small opening on either side so you can reach your pet for a little extra reassurance.

And, when your trip out is done, you can fold down the concertina mesh back to create a spacious, comfortable bed for a well-earned rest.

KEY FEATURES:

Front facing cat backpack
Clear bubble window
Extendable back panel
Nine ventilation holes

SPECIFICATION:

Brand: Lollimeow
Weight: 2.6 pounds

PRODUCT DETAILS:

?【Clear Window Design & Expandable Tent Bed】 Cats Love to Keep a Close Eye on Their Surroundings. Clear window makes it come true that cats are able to see everything in cat backpack. Easily Expand to Large Tent Bed provide more room playing and having a rest.
?【Excellent Ventilation】 9 large Ventilation Holes on both sides and front, left and right ventilation nets ensure fresh air for fur-kids. The back expandable anti-scratching net provides maximum breathability that your pet will enjoy the outdoor time with you.
?【Functional and Cool】 This pet carrier is super functional and cool also well made. Made with High-Quality Pet Safe Materials, Easy Clean and Lightweight. The pocket on the other side is nice to fill in pet snacks.
?【Be Close to You】 You can carry this pet backpack in the front of your body. The little opening on one side is nice to reach in and pet her when she’s nervous.
?【Item Dimensions:】Front Part 12.5″ L x 11″ W x 16.5″ H. Expandable Back Panel : 16.5″ L x 16.5″ H x 21″ H. Suggested Weight: 0-13lbs for small to medium cats, 0-10lbs for Dogs and puppies. Most Airline Approved under seat. Important: Please Check your airline requirements before traveling.

VIEW PRICE ON AMAZON

Best Durable: Petsfit Carrier Backpack for Cats

With the conventional looks of a daypack, but with plenty of space and ventilation for your cat, the sturdy Petsfit comfort backpack is worth checking out. Sized for small to medium cats up to 15 pounds, the pack retains its shape, thanks to the quality EVA material.

And it’s lightweight too, meaning it’s comfortable for cat owners to carry around. For air circulation, there are two sizeable breathable mesh side panels as well as a top mesh entry that zips out to create a spacious viewing window.

And if you pop in a pad for extra Petsfit comfort, your kit should soon feel right at home. And when your trip out with your cat is done, the whole cat hiking backpack folds down flat for storage.

KEY FEATURES:

Made from durable EVA
Mesh sides for ventilation
Top panel opens up as a window
Includes an internal tether

SPECIFICATION:

Brand: Petsfit
Weight: 3.59 pounds

PRODUCT DETAILS:

Please Note the Size before you buy. Size:16”H10”W13”L
Durable, Light and Comfortable for pet parents. Easier to carry your pet to travel
Almost there is quite a strain on your back with limited ergonomic support
Mesh sides for well-ventilated rides and allowing them the comfort to see freely without feeling cramped inside a cage
With one tether inside to secure your pets. For Pets up to 15 pounds

VIEW PRICE ON AMAZON

Best Bubble Backpack: Henkelion Cat Backpack Carrier Amazon’s Choice

We like the space-age look of this bubble pet backpack from Henkelion, with a full transparent window for your cat to see out – and be seen! And this space capsule backpack is versatile as you can wear it on your front or back. The bubble backpack is made from durable and weather resistant Oxford cloth, while the clear window is made from scratch resistant ABS.

Nine air holes promote air circulation and are spaced to give your cat the benefit of all-round fresh air. And cat owners are not forgotten too, as the padded shoulder straps take the weight out of carrying your feline. Perhaps not best for prolonged periods, but for shorter trips this carrier space capsule is a clear favorite.

KEY FEATURES:

Oxford cloth and ABS
Anti-scratch clear bubble front
Nine air holes for ventilation
Ergonomic design for comfort

SPECIFICATION:

Brand: Henkelion
Model: Most Wished for Cat Backpacks
Weight: 3.22 pounds

PRODUCT DETAILS:

?SPACE CAPSULE APPEARANCE – The unique and popular space capsule design makes your pet feel safer, comfortable and lets it have a broader vision of the outside
?BACKPACK & FRONT PACK – Henkelion pet carrier achieves your hands-free and makes it easier to take care of your pet during hiking, travel, cycling and walking etc, whether you wear it on the front or the back
?BREATHABLE & DURABLE – The solid ABS material and oxford cloth with nine-hole and air mesh bring both better air circulation and anti-scratch effect
?ERGONOMIC DESIGN – The straps of backpack can absorb sweat and relieve the pressure from your backpack to make you feel more comfortable
?TRAVEL WITH YOUR PETS – This dog backpack carrier is designed for outdoors and travel, you can use it to carry small dogs or cats for biking, hiking, camping, outdoor walking or meeting friends

VIEW PRICE ON AMAZON

Best Budget Pick: Texsens Pet Backpack Carrier for Small Cats Amazon’s Choice

This urban chic pet portable carrier will look smart with any outfit, but as a cat backpack it also hits the mark. Made from durable PVC mesh on three sides, with a pet-safe plastic back, the pack gives your kit a 180-degree view of the outside world to keep him entertained.

And with the mesh windows, he has plenty of air flow. A roll down entry door doubles up as a window and the whole pet carrier is scratch-resistant.

Add in comfort shoulder straps and chest buckles, breathable back mesh to keep you cool and a safety leash inside the backpack to keep your cat secure, and you get a nice piece of pet gear for your money.

KEY FEATURES:

180° view for your cat
Pet-safe PVC mesh
Zip open top for easy access
Lightweight and durable

SPECIFICATION:

Brand: Texsens
Weight: 2.58 pounds

PRODUCT DETAILS:

★ Pet Backpack Dimensions：13.1″ L x 12.6″ W x 16.7″ H. Perfect pet carrier backpack for dogs or cats up to 17-pounds. Before purchasing please measure your pet – LENGTH: neck to base of tail; HEIGHT: floor to top of shoulder
★ Breathable & Perspective: Three side was made of PVC mesh for the carriers. Well ventilated design for optimal airflow and checking on pet
★Reduce shoulder weight: This cat carrier backpack comes with chest buckles which helps to reduce the burden and keeps the shoulder straps from slipping while pet moving
★ Keep your pet comfortable: Removable cozy mat for easier cleaning and let your pet enjoy it inside.
★ Last Long Using and Easy Storage: Our premium pet carrier is quite scratch-resistant and sturdy for long lasting use. You can also rest assured that it is strong enough to stand up to the scratches or gnawing of your pets.

VIEW PRICE ON AMAZON

Best Stylish: Halinfer Space Capsule Cat Backpack Amazon’s Choice

As a space capsule style backpack, the halinfer works a treat, thanks to its lightweight and expandable design. You wear it as a front or back cat carrier, with a full clear hard-shell bubble for puss to see where he’s going.

For rest time the mesh back panel expands to create a neat and spacious cat bed. Sized for cats up to 12 pounds, as a backpack, it has just sufficient room, and a removable inner pad and built-in leash ups the comfort and security.

And when it comes to keeping everything fresh, you get plenty of air holes plus two side mesh windows for healthy ventilation. Anti-scratch and airline approved, this is a good carrier space capsule for the smaller cat.

KEY FEATURES:

Anti-scratch bubble front
Expandable mesh back
Inner leash and waist strap
Front or back carrying

SPECIFICATION:

Brand: halinfer
Weight: 2.8 pounds

PRODUCT DETAILS:

FRONT Expandable Cat Carrier Backpack for LARGE and Fat Cats up to 20 POUNDS. This cat backpack carrier increase your pet’s visual space via front transparent hard shell, Also the front expandable version FIXS VENTILATION & HOT issues vs. non-expandable version.
Are you still using the SMALL cat bubble backpack while your little kitten grows up. Your furry friend deserves to own a bigger one. That’s the exact intention we launch this front expandable cat backpack, 4″ extended in front means bigger and roomy inside, fits up to 20 pounds large fat cat.
ECO-FRIENDLY AND NON-TOXIC PET-SAFE MATERIALS MADE BACKPACK FOR CATS. Light weight and super wear-resistant shell perfectly against biting and scratching by pets. Entire backpack is less than 3 lbs only. Airline Approved and fits under the seat.
TWO CARRYING WAYS. Portable and Wearable shoulder pet carrying carrier backpack with adjustable chest buckle for travel and hiking outdoor activity, the real travel backpack for cats.
This backpack for cats, great bookbag carrier for cat provides protection for your furry friends and adheres to Amazon’s return policy.

VIEW PRICE ON AMAZON

Best Expandable Backpack: Pecute Pet Carrier Backpack

This large cat backpack is like a mini cat condo as it can be expanded to 90% of its original size! In standard mode, you get a neat backpack style carrier, with sufficient room for cats up to 18 pounds. Made from waterproof, anti-scratch Oxford cloth, it has large mesh windows on all sides, with a large zipped top entry.

For you, it’s comfortable to carry, thanks to the shock-absorbing design, including sponge back, padded shoulder straps and retractable chest and waist buckles. When you stop for a break or you need a more space for your kit, simply expand the back panel to create a portable travel bed they can lie down in. Add side pockets and a double-sided padded mat and you have a cracking cat carrier for your money.

KEY FEATURES:

Made from durable Oxford cloth
Expands up to 90% in size
Chest and waist straps
Double-sided padded mat

SPECIFICATION:

Brand: Pecute
Weight: 3.4 pounds

PRODUCT DETAILS:

【 EXPANDABLE & FOLDABLE 】 This pet carrier with an expandable back design gives your pet more space (increase by 90%) to rest and increase air circulation, allows your pet to move around more comfortably and reduces the anxiety. When you don’t need to use it, the folded pet backpack will only take up very little space. Airline approved? Each airline sets their own specific requirements, so it is advised to check with your airline of choice.
【 MAXIMUM AIR CIRCULATION & MULTIPLE ENTRANCES 】 Comes with 4-side breathable mesh windows, giving plenty of air for pets. Makes it easy for you to observe the movement of your pets while they are enjoying the scenery outside. With zippers on both top and front, your lovely pets can be put in and out of our pet carrier backpack easily.
【 SHOCK ABSORPTION DESIGN 】 Honeycomb mesh elastic sponge back cushion, breathable, decompression and shock resistance, release pressure and travel easily. Widened design, adjustable shoulder pad to help reduce load and increase comfort, two retractable buckles on the top and bottom of the cat backpack to prevent shoulder strap deviation and maintain the stability of the dog carrier.
【 SAFETY & STORAGE】 1, Made of high-quality oxford cloth, waterproof, anti-scratch, environmentally friendly, non-toxic and non-irritating, let your pet breathe freely and relax. 2, Adopts lock-type zippers design to prevent the zipper from being opened by pets. Built-in retractable hook safety rope with anti-escape zip to prevent pets from escaping. 3, The pockets on both sides can store food and trash bags and some necessary accessories, like snacks, keys, cards or mobile phones and so on.
【 STURDY & COMFORTABLE BOTTOM – DOUBLE-SIDED USED 】 The dog backpack has a removable firm bottom that can be unzipped and features soft, comfy padding for your pet to sit or sleep on comfortably. It can be used on both sides: the bottom mat is made of short plush. In the winter, pets can stay indoors to stay warm and comfortable; the other side is oxford-cloth design, suitable for summer, cool and breathable! It can be removed and washed separately!

VIEW PRICE ON AMAZON

Best for Outdoor Use: BEIKOTT Cat Carrier Bag

As a traveler bubble backpack, this airline-approved cat bubble carrier hits the mark. The backpack front is a semi sphere, giving your cat a clear view of the world outside. But the durable hard-shell keeps them feeling safe and secure.

There’s also two side windows, so you can reach in to comfort your pet, while the nine large ventilation holes keep everything fresh. The rest of this travel pet carrier is made from eco friendly Oxford cloth, with padded shoulder straps for your carrying comfort.

And we like the added touches, such as security leash and collapsible bowl. Designed for cats up to 13 pounds, it’s not for larger cats but for smaller kits, this is the way to travel in bubble style.

KEY FEATURES:

Made from Oxford cloth
Full height bubble window
Airline-approved carrier
Includes a free collapsible bowl

SPECIFICATION:

Brand: BEIKOTT
Weight: 2.8 pounds

PRODUCT DETAILS:

Comfort & Security. Unique transparent space capsule design, having more communication and interaction with your pet
Economical & Eco-friendly. Offering you and your pet a casual life style. Adjustable padded shoulder straps and carrying handle make you easier to use and carry
Ventilate, Safe & Convenient. With transparent capsule bubble and ventilate holes, Built-in security leash and soft washable pad. Front & side comes with zippers
Durable & Spacious. Made of oxford fabric/Polyester/Anti-scratch Fabric/Durable frame. Measured probably 13.9” x 9.8” x 16.5”(LxWxH). Load-bearing up to about 13lbs
Package Includes: Cat backpack, Soft mat, security leash, Collapsible pet bowl (free gift)

VIEW PRICE ON AMAZON

Best for Large Cats: Lollimeow Cat Backpack

Lollimeow has combined the best of both pet carrier worlds, with a bubble capsule window set in a traditional backpack design. The result is a carrier that, while it can only carry small cats, is durable as well as airline approved and would also make an ideal kitten backpack .

The bubble window resembles a ship’s porthole but gives a decent view, plus it’s removable and there’s an alternative top opening so they can safely pop out their head.

The side mesh panels allow for plenty of ventilation and the inner safety strap connects to their leash for total security. Waterproof, lightweight and easy to clean, you also get a couple of side pockets for all those essential pet travel treats.

KEY FEATURES:

Removable front bubble window
Waterproof and anti-scratch fabric
Side mesh windows and pockets
Airline approved

SPECIFICATION:

Brand: Lollimeow
Weight: 2.75 pounds

PRODUCT DETAILS:

?【 LARGE SIZE & ROMMY SPACE】 This pet backpack is designed for small dogs and fat cats. It holds up to 26lbs of cats and 20lbs dogs and provide roomy space for them to travel. Dimension: 17.7 x 11.4 x 15 inches. Most airline approved under seat. Important: Please Check your airline requirements before traveling.
?【BUBBLE WINDOW】Pets love being able to see from this cat backpack and feel much safer! Bubble window makes it come true that pets are able to see everything in pet backpack and bring travel more fun.
?【TOP OPENING FOR YOUR PET TO HEAD OUT】Top has main zipper opening along with smaller mesh opening that you can keep rolled with our snap feature so your cat can hang out from the opening top. Security leash hook attachment provides extra security when using this feature.
?【DURABLE & FUNCTIONAL】The cat backpack is made of superior material which is scratch-resistant, Waterproof, Easy Clean and Lightweight. It’s sturdy for long lasting use. The side pouches is also perfect for a can of friskies or a bag of treats!
?【EXCELLENT VENTILATION】Plenty of ventilation holes and two side and top mesh panel allow the air to circulate. A mesh window replacement is attached for more ventilated usage. You can also open the top window or take off bubble window for your fur friend. Security leash prevent your pet from jumping out of the carrier.

VIEW PRICE ON AMAZON

Best Back Support: PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack Amazon’s Choice

We think the PetAmi is a good choice for hiking as it’s comfortable and allows your cat plenty of space and fresh air. Made from 600D high grade polyester, the backpack has a sleek shape, and sits well on your back.

There’s extra thick padding on the shoulder straps and you get added waist and chest buckles for extra support. Inside your cat has a good view out, thanks to the front window opening and large side mesh panels.

There’s also a Sherpa lined pad to keep him cozy and a free water bowl. The inner structure is reinforced too, so that it doesn’t collapse while you both happily go about your travels.

KEY FEATURES:

600D high grade polyester
Two-way entry and zipped mesh
Sherpa lined bedding
Padded shoulder straps

SPECIFICATION:

Brand: PetAmi
Weight: 3.6 pounds

PRODUCT DETAILS:

Designed for the maximum convenience and comfort for you and your pet while hiking, traveling, or taking your best friend to the vet, or going for a walk in the park. Measures approximately 12.5″ x 10.2″ x 16.3″ (L x W x H). Easily fits cats, small dogs, and most other small/medium sized pets!
YOUR PET WILL TRAVEL IN COMFORT – Well ventilated design for optimal airflow, two-way entry for easy access, zip up mesh window for more headroom and visibility, and thick, cozy sherpa lined bedding so your pet can rest and relax. This backpack is firmly structured, providing ample room for your pet to move around.
DESIGNED WITH SAFETY IN MIND – Equipped with a firmly reinforced structure to prevent itself from collapsing on your pet while traveling. Also comes with a safety strap and buckle to secure your pet and prevent escape.
SUPERIOR COMFORT, FIT, AND CONVENIENCE – The back and shoulder straps are equipped with extra thick padding for more comfort during long trips. This backpack comes with both waist and chest buckles to give you extra support. We also added side pouches and a front pocket to store essential pet supplies and a collapsible pet bowl so you can keep your pet hydrated on the go!
QUALITY CONSTRUCTION – Made with durable 600D high grade polyester for a long-lasting experience; Available in 9 Colors – Black, Dark Gray, Heather Gray, Heather Taupe, Light Blue, Light Gray, Pink, Royal Blue, Red

VIEW PRICE ON AMAZON

Best Airline-Approved: PETRIP Cat Carrier

Our Premium Pick is this super-smart cat carrier, combining a space capsule design with an urban backpack look. Made from high quality Oxford mesh fabric and PU leather, it’s a sizeable pet carrier, with enough space for cats up to 22 pounds.

The front zip opener also gives the option of adding a bubble window, while two side mesh panels as well as ample air holes provide all the needed ventilation.

The shoulder straps are nice and wide to distribute weight and the chest strap helps to keep everything secure and stable. For the money, you get a fashion-forward travel pet carrier that you and your cat will be happy to be seen in.

KEY FEATURES:

Oxford fabric and PU leather
Interchangeable bubble window
Scratch-resistant and waterproof
Airline approved

SPECIFICATION:

Brand: PETRIP
Weight: 4.36 pounds

PRODUCT DETAILS:

?【Cat Backpack Fashionable Design】: Space capsule design makes this chest bag cool and futuristic. Bubble window can provide security and ease anxiety for your lovely pets. Convenient to enjoy the sunshine and scenery with your furry friend for traveling, riding, walking, sightseeing, camping, hiking and more outdoor activities
?【Airline Approved Pet Carrier Large Space】: This dog bag is 13.4″L x 12″W x 16.9″H, most airline approved under seat. Important: Please Check your airline requirements before traveling. Recommended up load cat 22 lbs. dog 15 lbs., dog carriers for small dogs, medium dogs and puppies
?【Cat Carrier Backpack Safe & Breathable】: Ventilated cat dog carrier backpack with 9 big air holes and mesh, pet will feel comfortable and breathable inside. A snap hook inside to keep your cute pet safe, no more worries about cat/dog jumping out and running away
?【Superior Quality & Easy to Clean】: This dog carrier is made from high quality, eco-friendly and durable materials– PU leather. Clean it with a rag and a light wipe, so easy. Scratch-resistant and waterproof
?【100% Satisfaction Guaranty】: 100% satisfaction guaranty is our company’s mission，Limited Lifetime Warranty: Petrip Products provides a lifetime warranty on this product against defects in material and workmanship. This warranty does not apply to normal wear or damage

VIEW PRICE ON AMAZON

Best Cat Backpacks Buying Guide For 2023-2024

How To Choose The Right Cat Backpack:

Security, comfort and ventilation are the essentials when it comes to your cat’s new backpack. Here what you should look out for:

Material:

You need your backpack to be durable, so look for quality materials that can keep up with the pace. Water-resistant fabrics such as Oxford cloth are a good choice as they are tough enough to cope with claws but is flexible and pretty lightweight. PVC and pet-safe plastic and mesh are other options.

Size:

Your backpack needs to be large enough to give your cat room to turn around, sit down and stand up, but not too large that she is too ‘loose’ inside or it becomes cumbersome to carry. It also needs to be able to carry her weight as most models are designed to only carry cats weighing up to a maximum of 10-12 pounds.

Bubble or mesh windows:

Cat backpacks have two types of windows, bubble or mesh. With a cat bubble backpack, you get a hard-shell exterior which includes a clear semi sphere window. However, you do need to ensure the backpack has sufficient ventilation. A mesh window cat travel backpack, on the other hand, is a softer carrier which includes mesh panels that double up as windows to let plenty of fresh air through.

Entry:

Cats can be wriggly creatures, so you need a quick and easy entry point to get them inside and settled. Many pet travel backpacks will provide both a top and side entry point for convenience, just make sure the zippers or locking mechanism are effective and easy to access.

Security:

Once inside their backpack, you want your pet to stay there and so your portable travel cat carrier should have essential security measures to keep them safe. As well as good zippers, look for a tether loop or inner leash to attach to your cat’s collar.

Ventilation:

Your kit needs to be able to breathe easily so ensure the carrier has sufficient ventilation. Most packs have several mesh openings which let air pass through. If you’re opting for a bubble backpack, check it has enough large ventilation holes to keep everything fresh inside.

Durability:

Your backpack needs to keep its shape as well as being scratch resistant and tough enough for everyday use. Look for a sturdy base and check the quality of the frame to ensure it won’t break easily or lose its shape.

Comfort:

Look inside the backpack to check it has a sturdy base to support your cat, and opt for a carrier that has a removable comfort pad if you can. As you will be carrying the pack, check out the design. Padded straps, waist and chest buckles will help you take the weight, while a padded back area will make it comfortable to carry.

Airline compatible: If you’re planning on using your new cat backpack to take your pet onto an airplane, then ensure the model you are looking at is airline approved.

Accessories:

A few added extras will be the finishing touch to your backpack. Pockets are always a great help when traveling with your pet. Other extras to look for include a collapsible water bowl and removable inner pads.

Cat Backpack vs Handbag-Style Cat Carrier:

While picking a cat carrier is a personal choice there are differences between a backpack and a more traditional cat carrier:

Cat backpack:

Designed to be sturdy yet comfortable, a cat backpack carrier can take the weight of your cat, leaving your hands free. They are also designed to be lightweight, giving you greater mobility and cat-carrying convenience.

And, as they are worn higher up on your body, your cat may well feel safer and away from any hazards on the ground. However, they are usually weight-limited so not suited to larger cats and not the best choice for long journeys.

Handbag-style cat carrier:

With the look of sports bag, these soft-sided cat carriers also allow your cat to also lie down, making them a good option for longer journeys. And they are convenient when flying, as long as you opt for a bag that’s airline approved. However, being soft sided, they don’t offer quite as much protection and you need your hands to carry them.

Tips for Getting Your Cat Used to the Backpack:

Your cat may be a little resistant of their backpack at first but there are steps you can take to encourage your kit to feel at home:

Give them time to explore and get to know the backpack. Place a few of her favorite cat treats inside the pack, then leave it on the floor with the entry open so she can have a look in her own time.
Once your cat is more confident getting inside the pack, briefly close the door, then open it again, giving her plenty of praise. Repeat as appropriate.
When she’s happy in the backpack and comfortable with the entry being closed, carefully lift the pack onto your back. Walk around your home or garden for a few minutes and monitor her reaction.
Once she is calm and settled, you are now ready to venture further afield. Start with short trips, building up the time she spends in her carrier until your kit is a total backpack riding pro!