Best Cat Backpacks

10 Best Cat Backpacks in 2023 – Buyer’s Guide

(Last Updated On: February 2, 2023)

When your cat is an adventurous animal, so when you give her a pet backpack, they would enjoy it. Most cat owners know their cats want to come along on a walk or get a better view when they accompany their person on a walk, they are becoming more common. Let’s face it, they are way better on the person wearing the backpack because it divides the weight more equally and keeps both of your hands-free as opposed to a standard carrier that places all the weight to one side of your body.

The health and comfort of your cat is of course your number one concern. All the backpacks we tested when creating this guide met all our standards about the best build quality. Style and color fall down to personal taste. Many of the backpacks included here come in a range of colors to match the tastes of everyone. Another aspect we would suggest that you bear in mind is that as compared with a cotton backpack, rigid cases may be very tough on the back and shoulders during a long trip.

In a Hurry? The test winners after 9 hrs of research

PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack for Small Cats

PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack for Small Cats – Best Value

Why is it better?

  • Well constructed and keeps shape without collapsing
  • The clasps on the zippers keep your cat secured
  • Plenty of pockets for food, water and collapsible bowl included with purchase
  • Chest and waist straps are helpful

Fat Cat Cat Backpack Carrier

Fat Cat Cat Backpack Carrier – Premium Pick

Why is it better?

  • Comes with a soft insert for the bottom
  • The carrier is comfortable to wear
  • Open top feature is amazing
  • The side pockets are also perfect to hold a few diapers, wipes, snacks & toys

Best Cat Backpacks – Overview

Want to travel, walk, or bike, but just don’t want to leave your pet behind? With a cat-friendly backpack, you will be able to carry them out for your walk. While observing the sights and sounds of nature, they will get to snuggle in next to you. A cat backpack offers adequate insulation, protection, and a good viewing range for your animal. We’ve tested hundreds of pet backpacks to find the best, highest-quality, cat backpack at every budget, based on criteria such as price, quality, materials, and others. If you have a dog, you should check our guide on the best dog backpacks.

Cat Backpacks Reviews

1. PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack for Small Cats – Best Value

PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack for Small Cats

The PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack for Small Cats is 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. Easily fits cats, small dogs, and most other small/medium-sized pets! 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.

Well ventilated design for optimal airflow, two-way entry for easy access, a 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. 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.

Key Features:

  • Sherpa lined bed for your pet
  • Multiple mesh windows
  • 2-side access points for convenient entry and exit
  • Includes a name tag I.D and a collapsible bowl

Specifications:

  • Brand: PetAmi
  • Dimensions: 16.3″ H x 12.5″ W x 10.2″ D
  • Weight: 3.64 lbs
  • Weight Limit: 12 lbs
Pros
  • Well constructed and keeps shape without collapsing
  • The clasps on the zippers keep your cat secured
  • Plenty of pockets for food, water and collapsible bowl included with purchase
  • Chest and waist straps are helpful
Cons
  • Since it is a more structured bag, the bottom can start to dig into your back on longer journeys

2. Fat Cat Cat Backpack Carrier – Premium Pick

Fat Cat Cat Backpack Carrier

Take your fur babies with you everywhere you go. Well, maybe not everywhere. But with Fat Cat Cat Backpack Carrier, both you and your cat will be so comfortable when traveling, you’ll plan adventures all the time! The backpack is sturdy enough to be seat belted into a car like a car seat. Use the spacious pockets on both sides for treats, a travel dish, and other supplies.

Interchangeable cover options include the bubble, which lets your cat see the world. The center opening rolls up and snaps back so that your cat can hang out. The secondary top opening is good for getting your cat into the backpack, and also acts as an unofficial chin rest. There’s a leash clip inside to secure a leash or harness so they are nice and safe.

Key Features:

  • Clip inside to attach a leash
  • Side pockets on both sides
  • Adjustable straps
  • Mesh sides, top, and air holes in the front

Specifications:

  • Brand: The Fat Cat
  • Dimensions: 17″ H x 14″ W x 11″ D
  • Weight: 3.1 lbs
  • Weight Limit: 19.8 lbs
Pros
  • Comes with a soft insert for the bottom
  • The carrier is comfortable to wear
  • Open top feature is amazing
  • The side pockets are also perfect to hold a few diapers, wipes, snacks & toys
Cons
  • The leash is placed at the top of the backpack, rather than the bottom

3. Blitzwolf Cat Portable Carrier Space Capsule Backpack

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The Blitzwolf Cat Portable Carrier Space Capsule Backpack is a fashion generous space capsule style and innovative transparent window design that can ease your cute friends’ anxiety, allow them to enjoy the outdoor scenery and don’t need to stay home alone anymore. Eco-friendly polycarbonate plus durable oxford cloth provides a comfortable and breathable environment for your close friends.

There is a pocket on the outer side of the backpack for humans to use. You could carry your cup or tissues or other things with this pocket. The pet bag outer surface is covered with a thin protective film and the role of the protective film is to prevent the outer shell from being scratched during long-distance transportation.

Key Features:

  • Adjustable comfortable padded back and “S” shoulder straps
  • Built-in elastic security lock
  • Two hook and loop on the sides
  • Waterproof outer shell

Specifications:

  • Brand: Blitzwolf
  • Dimensions: 16.5″ H x 11.3″ W x 8.2″ D
  • Weight: 3.1 lbs
  • Weight Limit: 10 lbs
Pros
  • Great for small/medium cats
  • There is a soft board at the bottom for the cat to sit
  • Holes at the sides and front so you can comfort your pet
  • Very sturdy
Cons
  • Not suitable for large cats

4. Texsens Innovative Traveler Bubble Backpack Pet Carriers for Cats

Texsens Innovative Traveler Bubble Backpack Pet Carriers for Cats

Texsens Innovative Traveler Bubble Backpack Pet Carriers for Cats is the perfect way for your pet to accompany you on all your globe-trotting adventures. The 180° viewing design helps pets to reduce their fear. Give your pet a better outdoor experience. Zip openings on both sides and topside for easy to pets access.

This cat carrier backpack has three sides that were made of PVC mesh. Multiple mesh windows for better airflow and outside view for your pet. Breathable padded shoulder strap and back mesh for comfort and moisture-wicking. Built-in safety leash to ensure extra security for your pet and to prevent escape.

Key Features:

  • Zip openings on both sides
  • 180° viewing design 
  • Multiple mesh windows
  • Non-toxic, chemical-free

Specifications:

  • Brand: Texsens
  • Dimensions: 16.7″ H x 13.1″ W x 12.6″ D
  • Weight: 2.6 lbs
  • Weight Limit: 17 lbs
Pros
  • Feels pretty sturdy
  • Three-sided mesh is awesome for your pet
  • The view is open & they can see everything
  • Two pockets holds keys, phone or other small items
Cons
  • There is no hip strap

5. PetAmi Premium Pet Carrier Backpack for Small Cats

PetAmi Premium Pet Carrier Backpack for Small Cats

The PetAmi Premium Pet Carrier Backpack for Small Cats is made with durable 600D high-grade polyester, available in 7 colors – black, dark gray, light gray, royal blue, light blue, red, pink. This backpack comes with both waist and chest buckles to give you extra support. We also added side pockets for extra capacity and a collapsible pet bowl so you can keep your pet hydrated on the go!

Designed for the best and most convenient travel outdoor experience for you and your pet! Well ventilated design for optimal airflow and checking on your pet, soft cozy sherpa lining bedding so your pet can relax and rest, collapsible bowl to keep your pet hydrated during travel

Key Features:

  • Sherpa lined bed for your pet
  • Multiple mesh windows
  • Top access point
  • Includes a collapsible bowl

Specifications:

  • Brand: PetAmi
  • Dimensions: 16″ H x 11.5″ W x 9″ D
  • Weight: 1.8 lbs
  • Weight Limit: 12 lbs
Pros
  • Sturdy back and bottom
  • Lots of mesh to keep temperature down and give your cat plenty of views
  • Very deep side pockets
  • Straps have a clip across the chest to keep the pack secure and better distribute the weight
Cons
  • No hip support

6. U-pet Innovative Patent Bubble Pet Carriers

U-pet Innovative Patent Bubble Pet Carriers

U-pet Innovative Patent Bubble Pet Carriers carry your pet in comfort and safety. Our practically designed backpack cases, satchels, and bags are great for keeping your furry friend with you on all your adventures. Take Fido and Kitty out to the ballgame, on a plane, or to the vet in your choice of colors and budget-friendly designs. Small pets, such as cats and rabbits can be difficult to keep in carriers. U-pet’s semi-sphere can stop them from escaping and keeps them safe in your care.

Your pet carrier’s window can be switched to mesh or removed for small dogs. Our solution-based designs allow your pets to enjoy the scenery and interact with the outside world. We care for your pets as if they were our own and with over 30 years of experience, we can help you give your pets the best care!

Key Features:

  • Semi-sphere window design
  • Built-in security leash
  • Two interchangeable straps
  • Top & side entries

Specifications:

  • Brand: Upet
  • Dimensions: 10.2″ H x 7.1″ W x 18″ D
  • Weight: 5.3 lbs
  • Weight Limit: 12 lbs
Pros
  • Thick straps
  • Tons of pockets
  • It is heavy canvas and looks super nice but is also breathable
  • The bag is well made and looks awesome
Cons
  • Straps are too long for short people

7. Tirrinia Pet Carrier Backpack for Cats

Tirrinia Pet Carrier Backpack for Cats

The Tirrinia Pet Carrier Backpack for Cats featured padded back and the padded shoulder strap makes it more comfortable to wear. It also comes with an adjustable waist strap and chest strap which helps to reduce the burden and keeps the shoulder straps from slipping while pet moving.

The carrier backpack has two entrances on the front & on the top which can meet pets standing & laying needs at the same time. You also can attach your pets to inside lock leash keep secure while put their head out on the top. Four mesh window provides your pets ventilation and visibility. Roomy space for pet stays comfortable during the trip. We also offer a free collapsible pet bowl, so you can keep your pet full during the trip! The bottom is hard but comes with a removable soft pad inside for comfort for your pet and easy cleaning.

Key Features:

  • Double zippers
  • Inside safety strap
  • Non-slip bottom
  • Foldable

Specifications:

  • Brand: Tirrinia
  • Dimensions: 16″ H x 13.2″ W x 11.2″ D
  • Weight: 2 lbs
  • Weight Limit: 15 lbs
Pros
  • The top is screened and zips completely open
  • The stiffened filler in the removable bottom is also removable so the fleece/fabric can go through the wash
  • The build quality is excellent
  • There are two adjustable front straps that really help with keeping the carrier in place
Cons
  • The bottom digs into your back a little bit

8. halinfer Expandable Cat Backpack

halinfer Expandable Cat Backpack

This halinfer Expandable Cat Backpack increases your pet’s visual space via front transparent hard shell, gives more room and playtime inside by expandable back panel. Lightweight and super wear-resistant shell perfectly against biting and scratching by pets.

Extra 9 vent holes around this carrier backpack and two side windows to perform great air circulation inside. Expanded back panel to be a giant tent bed for your furry friends to enjoy outdoor time with nature and sunshine well without feeling stuffiness in the backpack, the best ventilation ever.

Key Features:

  • Breathable raised mesh
  • Chest secure buckle
  • Expandable back
  • 9 vent holes around the back

Specifications:

  • Brand: halinfer
  • Dimensions: 16″ H x 11.5″ W x 26.5″ D
  • Weight: 3 lbs
  • Weight Limit: 12 lbs
Pros
  • The price is amazing for the sturdiness and durability
  • Besides the clear dome, the mesh sides and airholes also give them places to watch the world from
  • Bags are size adjustable
  • Pretty sturdy
Cons
  • The clear bubble is fairly easy to scratch so handle it with care

9. Lollimeow Large Cat Backpack Carrier with Bubble

Lollimeow Large Cat Backpack Carrier with Bubble

The Lollimeow Large Cat Backpack Carrier with Bubble is made of superior material that is scratch-resistant, waterproof, easy-clean, and lightweight. It’s sturdy for long-lasting use. The side pouches are also perfect for a can of Friskies or a bag of treats! The top has a main zipper opening along with a smaller mesh opening that you can keep rolled with our snap feature so your cat can hang out from the opening top.

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 a bubble window for your fur friend. Security leash prevents your pet from jumping out of the carrier.

Key Features:

  • 2 large side pockets
  • Top opening for your pet
  • A latch inside hook to the color of your pet
  • Soft mat at the bottom

Specifications:

  • Brand: Lollimeow
  • Dimensions: 15.3″ H x 12.6″ W x 8.6″ D
  • Weight: 2.8 lbs
  • Weight Limit: 10 lbs
Pros
  • Well ventilated for your cat
  • Materials feels really high quality
  • Sturdy and spacious
  • Very easy to change out the bubble window from the grid window
Cons
  • Not suitable for large cats

10. Pecute Pet Cat Carrier Backpack

Pecute Pet Cat Carrier Backpack

This Pecute Pet Cat Carrier Backpack gives your pet more space to rest and increase air circulation, allows your pet to move around more comfortably, and reduces the anxiety. The top of the cat backpack can be open, for your pet to stick their head out off, you can zip the cover on the mesh for breathability and visibility or you can snap on the shade cover to protect from the sun.

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 pet puppy carrier. This cat carrier 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

Key Features:

  • Adjustable shoulder straps and buckles
  • Double-sided use pad
  • Two zipper switch buckle for safety
  • Equipped with a safety belt

Specifications:

  • Brand: Lollimeow
  • Dimensions: 17.3″ H x 13.4″ W x 10.6″ D
  • Weight: 2.8 lbs
  • Weight Limit: 18 lbs
Pros
  • The main frame is sturdy
  • The straps are adjustable
  • The zippers also have a clasp so that they can’t sneak open the zippers
  • The back panel unzips and opens up the nylon compartment
Cons
  • The protection film is difficult to remove

Buying Guide

Size

You ‘re going to want to pick a backpack that allows your pet enough space for them to turn around to stand without being crouched. You’ll just want to make sure the carrier has a sufficiently sturdy bottom to bear her weight without collapsing. Many backpacks come with guidelines for the weight, either ten pounds or fifteen pounds, but make sure to check the weight of your pet before making a purchase.

Comfort

If you expect long periods of carrying your cat backpack, it is vital that it will not damage your shoulders or back. In general, the broader the straps on the back, the easier. Besides the shoulder straps, it is often good if there is a chest strap. Thus the weight is a bit more spread so that removes of the burden on your back. You’ll want to get your cat comfortable too. Although your bag has to be constructed of sturdy materials, your cat must still be secure enough to sit or lie on. Most cats’ backpacks come with reusable pads. That’s a fantastic function, especially if your cat happens to shed a lot.

Security

Your cat backpack should also include some extra protective features to prevent your pet from leaving the carrier. Most backpacks provide a leash to hold them safe in the carrier so that you may tie to your pet’s harness or neck. If your pet is likely to flee, avoid carrier with open tops, choose an alternative of mesh or clear plastic opening. Cats can fit even in tiny holes, so if you have an escape cat on your side, bear that in mind.

Bubble or Carrier Bag

There are two major forms of backpacks for cats: bubble and carrier bag. Bubble backpacks have a hard-shell lining, usually crafted from high-quality polycarbonate, and have a “bubble” semi-sphere for kittens to see outside. Such backpacks are time-tested and highly sturdy. They even give your pet a wide viewing space, thus ensuring they feel comfortable and protected. Usually, carrier bags are crafted from high-quality oxford cloth which is a dense and sturdy woven mix. Some of these may be used either as a bag or as a standard carrier. Usually, carrier bags have mesh-covered windows that allow your pet to see out and have good ventilation.

Durability

Be sure there’s a frame that will support your cat and search for different maximums of weight per each bag. Often, you’ll want to make sure the cloth is sturdy enough to hang onto cat claws. The last thing you want is for your poor cat to destroy the bag. Every quality cat backpack has a solid frame that remains in place. If the frame splits, your cat can escape, or even hurt.

Frequently Ask Questions

What is a cat backpack?

A cat backpack is a type of cat carrier which can be worn like a normal backpack on your back. It is used to take your cat with you when you’re traveling or just on daily trips such as hikes or vet visits.

Are cat backpacks cruel?

No, it’s no different than keeping your cat in a carrier or walking with a harness and leash. Once your cat uses it, they’ll probably look forward to getting inside it. Most cat backpacks are built with good ventilation, so in the end, they are relaxed.

How do I get my cat used to a cat backpack?

It’s a smart idea to put your cat’s favorite food in the backpack first and keep the bag open so that they can go in and out. You should shut the door for a few minutes after your pet goes in, so that they can continue to get used to the sensation of being inside the backpack. You should even compliment them for positive conduct in order to relax the environment. Before you finally take them on a ride with you, you can do this many times so that the animal has ample time to get used to the carrier.

Is a hard or soft cat carrier better?

Cat carriers come in all types and sizes based on the intended use, with different styles. Usually, soft-sided carriers are lightweight and simple to pack, whereas hard-sided carriers provide more robust protection.

How long can I carry my cat in a cat backpack?

This will depend on the nature and behavior of your cat. When a cat has acclimatized to the backpack, you can carry them on long journeys. Often make sure the backpack doesn’t feel too bulky and exerts a lot of weight on the neck and back. But if your cat gets too nervous when in the bag, it’s not recommended to hold them for prolonged periods of time.

How much weight can a cat backpack hold?

A cat backpack is usually made for small cats. This will vary from bubble or carrier bags as they will have different weight requirements.

Conclusion

We hope this guide was helpful for finding the best cat backpacks as well as our guide on features to look for in a cat backpack. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this guide, feel free to let us know in the comments section.