How to Choose a Cat Carrier and Train Your Cat to Love It

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

For many cats, the sight of a carrier signals trouble. It appears, then the cat is stuffed in, driven somewhere frightening and poked by strangers. Small wonder that cats flee. Changing that association takes planning, but it makes life easier for both of you, especially in emergencies.

Choosing a carrier

A good carrier is:

• Sturdy, with secure latches and a solid handle
• Well ventilated, with openings on several sides
• Easy to open, ideally with a top-loading door and a removable lid, so you can lift a cat out rather than pull it out
• Large enough for the cat to stand, turn and lie down, but not too large to be unsafe in a car
• Easy to clean, with a washable pad
• Safe in the car, able to be secured with a seat belt

Hard-sided carriers are generally safer and easier to train with. Soft-sided carriers are lighter and suit some cats, particularly for short trips, but check for strength and ventilation. Avoid cardboard carriers except in emergencies, and avoid carrying a cat in an open basket or box.

For large breeds, such as the Maine Coon, choose a larger carrier.

Make it part of the furniture

Leave the carrier out in a living area, with the door open.

1. Place a soft blanket or bed inside.
2. Put treats and toys inside.
3. Feed meals near the carrier, and then inside it.
4. Spray a feline pheromone product, if your vet recommends it.

Most cats will begin to explore and nap in it. Never use the carrier only for vet trips.

Step-by-step training

1. Introduce. Let the cat investigate at its own pace. Reward any interest.
2. Reward entry. Toss treats inside, and praise when the cat steps in.
3. Feed inside. Move food bowls progressively into the carrier.
4. Close the door briefly. Start with a second, then increase, always with treats.
5. Lift gently. Pick up the carrier with the cat inside, take a step, set it down and reward.
6. Move around. Carry the cat around the house.
7. Practice car trips. Take short drives that end somewhere pleasant, not always at the vet. See how to travel with a cat by car.

Go back a step if the cat is scared.

Getting a reluctant cat into a carrier

If you need to get a cat in quickly:

• Use a top-loading carrier, and lower the cat in feet first.
• Wrap the cat in a towel if needed. See how to pick up and hold a cat.
• Place the carrier on its end, and lower the cat in from above.
• Never chase the cat or drag it out from under furniture.
• Stay calm. Cats sense tension.

Prepare a safe space ahead of time, for example by closing the cat in a small room before the trip.

In the car

Secure the carrier with a seat belt, or wedge it so it cannot slide. Cover it lightly with a towel, and keep the car calm. Avoid loud music. Never leave a cat in a parked car. See keeping cats cool in hot weather.

At the vet

Keep the cat in the carrier in the waiting room, and place it on a chair, not the floor. Use a towel for comfort. Ask whether the clinic offers cat-friendly practices, such as separate waiting areas. See cat vet visit costs, and use the US vet directory to find a cat-friendly clinic.

Carrier hygiene

Wash the pad regularly, and wipe the carrier with mild soap. Remove it from the sun after use. Replace carriers that crack or fail.

Emergencies

Know where your carrier is, and keep it accessible. In fires, floods or evacuations, a trained cat is much easier to move. See the emergency warning signs guide for medical emergencies.

Treats

Use high-value treats and small portions. See healthy cat treats.

When your cat is already afraid

If your cat already hates the carrier, go slowly. Remove the lid, so the base is a bed. Feed meals in the base for days, and then replace the lid. Use a calming feline pheromone spray if your vet suggests it. Do not hurry, since progress may take weeks. Consistency and patience can reverse even a strong fear.

Senior and sick cats

Older cats may find jumping into top-loading carriers hard. Use a carrier with a front door and a ramp, or lay a soft towel inside. Cats in pain need gentle handling, so ask your vet for advice on transport.

Multi-cat homes

Each cat should have its own carrier, and keep them separate during trips. See how to introduce a new cat to your cat.