It’s not always a pleasant experience, but trimming your cat’s nails is an essential element of caring for your furry friend. There are a ton of benefits to trimming down those claws — both for you and for your kitty. For example, trims help prevent nails from curling inward and digging into your cat’s sensitive paw pads and prevent them from getting snagged on items.

A good trim can also, admittedly, help protect your furniture, rugs, and clothes, too. We’re going to walk through how to trim cat nails in a safe and effective way, and we’ll offer you some quick do’s and don’ts while we’re at it. With our tips, you can make the process easier, safer, and less stressful for both you and your cat. Soon, you’ll be able to trim your cat’s nails like a pro.

Let’s start with the basics of how to trim cat nails

• When trimming your cat’s nails, it’s easiest to sit your cat so that he’s right in front of you, facing away. Some cats may sit there willingly, but others may need to be gently restrained with a towel or blanket.
• Hold your nail clippers in your dominant hand, and with your other hand, lift up one of your cat’s paws. It’s easiest to start with the front paws.
• Gently squeeze your cat’s paw pad and the top of his paw with your thumb and the edge of your pointer finger. This will extend your cat’s claws.
• Look at each nail. You’ll see a lighter, white outer tip, and then a darker section that begins a little bit further up the nail. That darker section is called the “quick.” It’s sensitive and will bleed if you trim it. Make sure to trim only the nail, avoiding the quick.
• Position your clippers around the tip of the nail and close them with a quick, strong motion. In most cases, the faster you clip, the cleaner the cut will be. Again, make sure that you avoid the quick. If you’re unsure of how much to take off, always err on the side of caution and take off less.
• Repeat this process with each nail on each paw. Your cat may need some breaks, or you might need to trim just a nail or two during each session.

The “do’s” when trimming cat nails

• Do introduce nail trims when your cat is young. To make nail trims easier, introduce them ideally when he’s a kitten. You can get your cat used to having his paws handled by touching them briefly, then gradually increasing the amount of time you handle his paws. This will help him learn to accept nail trims and make the process less stressful.
• Do carefully time your trims. It’s best to play with your cat, tire him out, and then time the trims for when he’s relaxed and quiet. Don’t attempt a trim before your cat has breakfast or when he’s energized and playful. A happy, relaxed cat will probably be more willing to cooperate than a cat who’s full of energy.
• Do watch your cat’s reactions during the trim. He may need to take a break, and giving him a break can make it easier for him to cooperate.
• Do properly restrain your kitty. For your cat’s safety, you can wrap him up in a towel or blanket like a burrito, removing just the one paw that you need at a time. You may find it easier to enlist another human helper to help position and hold your cat.
• Do find the right tool. The right cat nail clippers can make the trimming process easier and safer. Look for sharp clippers that are appropriately sized for your cat’s nails. The clippers need to fit securely in your hand, and should be able to be operated with one hand only. Clippers with textured grips can create a more secure feel, which can help build your confidence as you’re learning to do these nail trims.
• Do reward your kitty. Focus on making each nail trim a positive experience for your cat. Reward your cat for a job well done with cat treats, praise, pats, and playtime.

The “don’ts” of trimming your kitty’s nails

• Don’t pull his paw out too far. This makes your cat instinctively pull it back in, which can be a losing battle. Instead, keep his paw as close to his side as possible while you trim.
• Don’t rush: Trimming your cat’s nails can take time and patience. Don’t rush the process or force your cat to comply.
• Don’t trim all nails at once: Trimming all nails at once can be overwhelming for your cat. Start with one nail at a time and take breaks if needed.
• Don’t punish your cat: Avoid punishing your cat for not cooperating during the trimming process. This can cause fear and anxiety and make future trimmings even more difficult.
• Don’t let him win the fight. If you sit down to trim his nails, get at least one or two nails done before giving in to his resistance. If he fights you and no trimming ends up happening, he has learned that he can do the same thing next time.

Learning to give your cat a nail trim requires some patience and practice. If you’ve never done a nail trim before, you can ask your vet to guide you through the process during your next appointment. They can give you some additional tips that are specific to your cat, and they can help you find the quick in your cat’s nails so you can be sure to avoid it. Before long, you and your cat will be more accustomed to nail trims, and the process should be smoother and easier for you both.

We can’t exactly tell if this kitty was absentmindedly playing with her toy or if she’s a diabolical genius who has set out to teach human owners a lesson; commenters seemed to lean toward the first (and we do too). In the video, the little mouser sits atop a sofa and playfully waves her toy in front of her owner, clearly trying to get him to swing at it. This clip is entitled “Derp has turned the tables playing with derp daddy” and was posted to the Animals Being Derps subreddit, a place for some particularly funny pics and videos of pets.

The top comment perfectly summed up what the cat was thinking “Here catch it……. NOT,” says u/Earthling2112. It’s true this little guy seems to be egging on her person. u/Roland1232 took it a step further and responded,”‘Demeaning, isn’t it?'” while u/PM_ME_NEW_VEGAS_MODS declared the man’s attempts “Pawthetic.”

Others leaned into the existential nature of the video a bit with u/AKWire_Princess saying, “I like the cat’s grey eyebrows and mustache… definitely a when the student becomes a teacher moment.”

u/_stoneslayer_ agreed with the instructor vibes and put out there, “His look of disappointment at his human’s failed attempt is hilarious.”

Why do cats play with toys?

While it might look silly when a person gives the string toy a go, it’s important for your pet’s overall health to give him mental stimulation. When you first bring your beastie home, try a few different types of playthings and see what sticks. Every animal has unique tastes. Some prefer the squeaky mouse version, and others will immediately gravitate toward ones that dangle from a pole or even their cat tree. No matter which accessory your cat picks, he’ll want to have a little fun with it, and you.

Next time your cat decides that it’s playtime, see if he’s interested in having you give the feather toy a go. You might wind up with a very confused feline, or you could discover a new game. Maybe showing him this video will give him a few ideas!

While you probably know that your dog needs a decent amount of exercise, you might not realize that your cat does, too. Experts estimate that most indoor cats don’t get enough exercise, and as many as 40% could be overweight or obese. Some big kitties might need a bit more, just as would be true for many dogs. One way to help encourage their heart rate is to gift them a structure. A cat tree for large cats will stimulate both their bodies and their minds.

Why do our felines love cat trees?

In the wild, cats climb trees, every one of those felines, from your escaped house cat to lions and leopards — they all love to get height. You might also see your indoor pet trying to do the same in your house with mixed success. Many pet parents investigate a sudden noise to find their little jumper now sitting on top of the cabinets or on a bookcase. If you give them a cat tree, that will satisfy much of their need to climb. It also allows the kitty to have space to themselves up high when they want to get out of the way and burn a few of those calories.

What are the benefits of a cat tree?

Cats love to climb whether they live inside, outside, or both. Some owners like to mimic the great outdoors by installing a cat tree indoors. It should be fun for your kitty, but it will also have health benefits. This is a great way to give them a little exercise, a scratching post, and mental stimulation. Make sure to pick the right one, depending on your cat’s size, interests, and behaviors.

Which one should I get for my big cat?

A large cat needs a sturdy cat tree! Stick to a few of these bigger and safer ones that will work perfectly for your larger animal.

FEANDREA 67-inch Multi-Level Cat Tree for Large Cats

This tree, aptly billed as “Exclusive Luxury for Cats,” will give them plenty to do no matter what mood hits them. With this cat tree, your feline has multiple heights, hidey holes, and balls to bat on. Most importantly, it’s incredibly stable and boasts high reviews — a distinguished 4.8. One top reviewer said their 20-pound beastie even fit on it, so this one works well if you have a big kitty.

Furhaven Tiger Tough Cat Tree Double Decker Playground

While the Feandrea has many options and so looks quite compact, this Furhaven tree has a more spacious and airy feel to it, but it still has plenty of attributes. Your kitty might enjoy the various activities that encourage them to play and stretch their brain, like the IQ busy box. Reviewers comment that it’s easy to assemble and since the tower is tall, it’ll work well for your big animal.

Amazon Basics Multi-Level Cat Tree Indoor Climbing Activity Cat Tower

Our last pick is slightly smaller but a great deal for the price and will still hold up for your big creature. It also has a number of different tiers and scratching posts galore. The current top reviewer remarks this the model is a “well-built and sturdy cat tree,” and many go on to mention the good price.

While you might have to do a bit more research, it’s absolutely possible to find the perfect cat tree even for a monster kitty that has a little extra weight on them. This will give your furry friend a lot to do safely while also engaging their mind and keeping them healthy.

It turns out they do exist — in a few forms. That’s good news for pet parents, especially people in multi-animal homes. Sometimes, your kitty may just need some extra space or a safe spot to keep food away from a dog that eats anything, including cat food. Here’s what to know about types of cat gates and how to choose one.

Types of pet gates for cats

When choosing to invest in a pet gate for cats, skip the baby-gate aisle. Baby gates have tiny humans in mind — not animals. They lack the sturdy construction and design cats and dogs require. Your best bet is to hit the pet store and source a pet gate.

Pet gates, in general, come in three types:

• Freestanding: You can move these gates around and set them up in different configurations. You don’t have to use screws or anchors to adhere them to the walls. Some come with walk-through gates and some don’t.
• Pressure-mounted: As you might guess, pressure-mounted gates extend between doorways or halls and stay in place with tension. They’re a little more restricted, and you have to step over them.
• Hardware-mounted: This option is best for people who own their property. These are permanent gates that stay where you place them. You can find walk-through gate options, or you can find some without. Choose your placement carefully before you start drilling.

Why you might need a cat gate for your door

At first, the notion of a cat gate might sound strange. Cats go wherever they want. It isn’t uncommon with their inquisitive nature to find your feline friend on top of bookshelves, exploring the space above the fridge, and even searching the cabinets. Do you always want them in those places, though? Not so much.

Cat gates may not always prevent the most athletic cats from their explorations, but they help define strict borders within the house. As your cat encounters the new obstacle, they will pause and consider why the doorway or stairs are blocked. Intelligent kitty minds go to work, and they’ll often wander away. Unless something is exciting on the other side of that cat gate, it’s not worth the energy to jump.

Non-cat uses for cat gates

Of course, if you share a home with cats and dogs, the pet gate takes on a new meaning. Maybe the gate helps your cat instead of hindering them.

Do these situations ring a bell?

• Your dog thinks the cat’s food tastes better
• You have a cat who needs to eat small meals throughout the day
• The dog thinks the litter box contains “treats”
• The cat needs a “dog-free” zone to relax in

Your pet gate can solve those problems. Most cats have no problem jumping over pet gates, but dogs? They don’t have the same ability.

What about jumpers?

Of course, sometimes you want to keep cats from an area. And most pet gates for cats just aren’t designed with cat anatomy in mind. Athletic breeds view that hurdle as a challenge. The dog may stop short, but cats have no problem launching themselves over the cat gate. If you want to keep cat hair off the new couch or shut your feline out of the kitchen during Thanksgiving prep, what can you do?

To start with, there are extra-tall cat gates on the market that attempt to foil that leaping prowess.

Most cats jump gates to figure out what they’re missing on the other side. If you take away the mystery, they lose interest. Here’s what you should do:

• Create a safe pile of objects on the opposite side of the gate. You’ll block your cat’s view.
• Set up hurdles in front of the gate. Your cat might get so interested in that game, they’ll forget the gate entirely.

If distraction doesn’t work, you can always switch to plan B and make the area unsavory to your cat’s senses:

• Place a sheet of sandpaper on the ground in front of the cat gate. Cats don’t like rough textures on their paws. It won’t hurt them, but they’ll start avoiding the area.
• Spray a cat deterrent around the gate. Most deterrents don’t affect your sense of smell, but cats despise them and hightail it.

Best cat gates to get for your pet

If you’re in the market for a cat gate, consider these options.

Richell 3-in-1 Convertible Pet Gate

A sturdy wooden cat gate, such as the Richell 3-in-1 Convertible Pet Gate, holds up against even a running start from the largest dogs. Better yet, you have the option of converting it into a pen, granting your kitty a zone of respite wherever it’s needed in the house. Pet gates define areas that are cat-friendly and easy for them to reach. Meanwhile, your dog learns to stay out of the “cat zone.”

Carlson Extra Tall Walk-Through Pet Gate with Small Pet Door

The Carlson Extra Tall Walk-Through Pet Gate with Small Pet Door measures a full 36 inches tall, so it can deter your cat from trying to jump over the gate. It can be adjusted to fit openings from 29 to 36.5 inches wide, meaning it will work with most doorways in your home. It also includes a 4-inch extension kit, making it a highly versatile option you can use throughout your home. The gate is highly durable — steel construction — and is chew-proof and nontoxic. It can be quickly removed and installed. The gate even features an 8-by-8-inch pet door that can let cats through while keeping larger pets out. The pet door can be locked to keep all your pets contained.

Namsan Magic Pet Gate for Dogs and Cats

The Naman Magic Pet Gate for Dogs and Cats is made of a strong nylon mesh and metal tube frame, so your cat can still feel like part of the action without having to look through metal bars. The mesh is strong enough to withstand cat claws. It measures approximately 39 by 32 inches, so it can discourage your cat from trying to jump it. It also fits most typical doorways and hallways. Pick a place for the cat gate and set it by drilling four holes in the wall. Use the rubber plugs to fix the pipe clips with screws. It easily swings open and closed for the humans of the house, while staying locked for your feline friend.

Safety 1st Eco-Friendly Nature Next Bamboo Gate

The Safety 1st Eco-Friendly Nature Next Bamboo Gate creates a solid yet safe surface to effectively keep your pets on one side. It adjusts easily between 28 and 42 inches wide, making it suitable for a variety of installations, such as in doorways and stairwells. It measures 24 inches high and features a durable bamboo frame. The panels are made of recycled plastic, so you can feel good about this eco-conscious product. Non-marring bumpers help protect your woodwork from damage, and the gate installs on pressure alone — no tools needed, and no assembly required!

You may need to take some deep breaths and work through some tricks, but you can manage cats and dogs with pet gates. The simple barrier helps your feline kiddo learn where it’s safe (or not) to go.

You just need to remember where you place those gates, so you don’t trip over them!

You’ll want to find the perfect cat Halloween costume for your fur baby. There are plenty of Halloween costumes for cats to choose from, but it’s important to get one that’s not only cute, but that’s also safe and easy to get on and off. Your furry friend might not be wild about dressing up, so be sure to consider their behaviors and preferences when deciding which costume is right for them. We’ve highlighted five great Halloween costumes for cats to help narrow down your choices as you shop.

Considerations for cat Halloween costumes

Unless you have a hairless breed of cat, odds are your cat hasn’t spent much time in clothing. That makes shopping for a cat costume a little trickier. Not impossible, though. If you’re willing to take some time with the process, you’ll find Halloween costumes for pets that’ll suit your feisty feline.

• Measure twice: Halloween costumes for pets aren’t always specific to cats — some work for cats OR dogs. Look over the measurement guidelines carefully so your cat doesn’t feel squashed or end up drowning in their new costume.
• Fabric choice: Cats love to slink and stretch. You want fabrics that let them enjoy their natural movements. Cotton and cotton-polyester blends have the most give of any materials and make the best cat costumes.
• Watch the head: Many Halloween costumes for pets feature headpieces. They’re adorable, but you don’t want to obstruct your cat’s whiskers. Remember, those whiskers help your cat sense the world around them.
  

Dressing a cat in a costume

If you’ve never placed an outfit on your cat before, Halloween may present a new experience — for both of you. It’s essential to observe your cat’s body language during the costuming process. Negative responses indicate that it’s time to remove the cat costume and give your cat a break:

• Flattened ears
• Hissing
• Lashing tail
• Swatting

You may also see your cat stiffen up and fall flat on the floor. (Amusing and alarming all at once!) The reaction’s normal for cats combatting a new “threat.” As your cat adjusts to the cat costume, they’ll get up and start moving. Provide reassurance and cat treats, and they’ll learn the outfit isn’t out to get them.

Cat Bat Wings Costume

This costume may be simple, but that’s what makes it such a great choice for your cat — especially if you have a black cat. These felt wings are lightweight and let your cat move around without being restrained. They’re adjustable, and one size fits most cats. Velcro closures secure the wings on, so you can quickly put them on and remove them as needed.

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Comfortable for your cat
• Convenient Velcro closures

Cons:

• Available in only one size
• Wings are a little basic (consider adding some glitter)

Frisco Bread Cat Costume

With this costume, your cat can attend Halloween as the in-bread cat meme! It’s a realistic-looking costume and features hook-and-loop fasteners for easy on and off. One size fits most cats, and the soft design helps your cat stay comfy. You’ll use this costume at Halloween and year-round for fun photoshoots.

Pros:

• Soft, comfy design
• Easy on and off

Con:

• Available in only one size

RYPET Cat Halloween Costume

With this fun cat costume, you’ll get both a collar and a hat, both made of quality polyester. The collar features six jingle bells for a festive sound that’s sure to make your cat the life of the party. The collar and hat are both adjustable.

Pros:

• Adjustable collar and hat
• Six jingle bells on the collar

Cons:

• One size only
• Jingle bells might take some getting used to

Pet Krewe Lion Mane Costume

With this fun costume, you can let your cat’s inner lion roar. Perfect for the king of the jungle, this costume will look fantastic on an orange or tabby cat. A hook-and-loop closure allows for a semi-customized fit. This mane can be easily hand-washed for cleaning as needed.

Pros:

• Washable
• Highly realistic

Con:

• Only some sizing adjustment is possible

Frisco Front Walking Teddy Bear Costume

This cute and cuddly costume will make it look like your cat is a walking teddy bear when viewed from the front. The costume is made with soft plush, so it’s easy and comfy to wear. The separate headpiece includes earholes to keep your cat comfortable. It’s available in six sizes, so you can get the perfect fit.

Pros:

• Available in multiple sizes
• The headpiece has ear holes for comfort

Cons:

• Might be a little overwhelming for more timid cats
• Your cat needs to step into the sleeves

These Halloween costumes for cats are plenty cute and fun, but they’re also designed with your cat’s safety in mind. They feature soft materials and designs that keep your cat comfortable, increasing the chance that he’ll be willing to wear the costume. When choosing a costume, be sure to consider how easy it is to put on and how quickly you can remove it in case your cat decides he doesn’t feel like dressing up. Velcro closures are quick and easy to undo, and they can help keep your cat safe. When introducing a costume, always put it on your cat gradually and give him time to get used to wearing it. By Halloween, hopefully, he’s comfortable in his outfit.

PetLuv Happy Cat Premium Cat Carrier

This carrier is great for transporting your cat in the car and out of it. It’s made of a durable rubber mesh to prevent tearing. It has four access panels and three privacy settings, giving your cat free rein or full privacy. The zippers lock, too, so smart kitties can’t escape. There is a large pocket for storage, and it comes with seat belt loops for secure car travel. This cat car seat is available in three colors and two sizes, making it great for all cats and owners.

Henkelion Pet Booster Car Seat

This hammock for the car is best suited for curious cats (or small dogs) who enjoy looking around while on the road. The booster seat fits securely in your vehicle using two safety straps. There is also an interior ring to attach to your cat’s harness, so he is not running around your car. The hammock is made of hard-wearing, waterproof material, making it breathable, comfortable, and easy to clean. You can choose from five fun colors, including black, pink, and blue.

Pet Gear Carrier and Car Seat for Cats and Dogs

The Pet Gear Carrier & Car Seat offers the best of both worlds: It’s safe to use in the car and for carrying your pet to and from. It easily and safely attaches to your vehicle using only the seat belt. The carrier is padded for comfort and has an interior tether for the harness, which adds more security. It’s made of a sturdy mesh that offers your cat a 360-degree view of his surroundings. The carrier is available in black, blue, and floral.

K&H Pet Products Bucket Booster Pet Seat

The K&H Pet Products Bucket Booster Pet Seat keeps your pet elevated while in the car to prevent motion sickness and provides a better view. It attaches safely in the vehicle using the seat belt and can be placed in the front or back seat. The car seat is padded and quite comfortable. Plus, it has a removable and washable cover. The booster seat also comes with a one-year limited warranty.

Siivton Airline Approved, Soft-Sided Pet Travel Carrier

This deluxe cat carrier comes with four expandable side attachments, giving your kitty plenty of space to stretch out. The soft-sided carrier offers plenty of ventilation for cats. It’s made of waterproof and strong material, ensuring you’ll be able to use this carrier for a long time. It’s airline-approved and can be buckled into your car for safe travel. This travel carrier comes in a stylish gray for you and has comfy padding for your pet.

Pet Fit For Life Collapsible/Portable Cat Condo

This portable cat condo is perfect for when you’re on the go and for outdoor excursions. You can buckle it into your car for added security or, if using it outdoors, stake it into the ground. The Pet Fit For Life Collapsible/Portable Cat Condo also comes with a feather toy, fleece floor pad, collapsible bowl, and portable litter box. The carrier is blue-and-white gingham and comes in medium or large.

Kurgo Car Pet Booster Seat for Dogs or Cats

The Kurgo Car Pet Booster Seat securely attaches to your car seat using two safety straps. You can also link your cat’s harness to the seat for even more security. It is super durable, and the liner is machine-washable. It can comfortably support pets weighing up to 20 pounds. The Kurgo car seat comes in fun, fashionable colors.

Car rides with cats can be challenging for everyone involved. But with these high-quality car seats, you can ensure your ride is as safe and stress-free as possible. Who knows? Your cat may even begin to like the open road!

We’re happy to report that yes, there are at least three awesome cat flea and tick collars, all for less than $60 each, that deliver on their promises, so both you and your cat are happy in a clean household. Below are some of the best cat flea and tick collars available. They use effective ingredients, are designed with your cat’s safety in mind, don’t have a greasy feel, and are made to keep up with your active outdoor cat. If you’re shopping for new flea and tick protection for your cat, give these collars a look.

ShengKou Flea and Tick Collar for Cats

• Uses citronella oil, cinnamon oil, garlic oil, lemongrass oil, and thyme oil
• Water resistant
• Will break in emergencies

The ShengKou Flea and Tick Collar for Cats puts natural ingredients to work to help repel fleas and ticks. This collar uses citronella oil, cinnamon oil, garlic oil, lemongrass oil, and thyme oil, not harsh chemicals. Its sustained-release design offers up to 12 months of protection, and it doesn’t feel greasy. The collar is made to break in emergencies, so your cat can safely play indoors and outdoors.

It’s designed to be used for cats of any size, and you can adjust the collar and then cut off the excess strap. The collar is water-resistant and can be left in place until you’re ready to replace it. With this value pack, you’ll get two collars and a free flea-removal tool.

Seresto 8-Month Flea and Tick Collar for Cats

• Odorless and greaseless
• Gets fleas and ticks on contact so they don’t have to bite your cat for it to work
• Starts working within 24 hours of putting on the collar

This vet-recommended Seresto 8-Month Flea and Tick Collar for Cats is adjustable for kittens 10 weeks and up. It’s great both for indoor and outdoor kitties. With this collar, low concentrations of feline-safe flea and tick killer release gradually over eight months with no additional treatment needed.

Seresto collars use imidacloprid against fleas and flumethrin against ticks. This is the only collar on the market that uses this combo. Once the collar is fully activated, after the first 24 hours it’s on, it kills new fleas within 2 hours.

Hartz UltraGuard Pro Flea & Tick Collar for Cats and Kittens

• Water resistant
• Features a reflective strip
• Safe for kittens 3 months and up

The Hartz UltraGuard Pro Flea & Tick Collar can be worn at the same time as a regular collar, ensuring outdoor cats won’t get lost because they’re missing an ID tag. Additional safety features include a reflective strip that reflects direct light up to 450 feet and a breakaway, safety-release snap. With a water-resistant design, rain won’t affect the collar’s ability to kill and repel fleas, ticks, flea eggs, and flea larvae. The collar is effective for seven months and is safe for kittens 3 months and older.

When applying a flea collar, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions. Some collars are water-resistant instead of waterproof, and others may take different amounts of time before you start to see their effects. It’s important for the collar to fit your cat properly, both to prevent rubbing and to keep him safe.

If your cat already has a flea infestation, then you’ll need to pair the collar with other remedies, including treating your home for fleas and actively vacuuming bedding, furniture, carpeting, and other spaces where fleas may have laid their eggs. Breaking the flea life cycle can be challenging, and investing in a quality flea collar is just one step in managing fleas and ticks for your cat.

Best for flat storage

The Pet Magasin Soft-Sided Airline-Approved Dog and Cat Carrier Bag features a lightweight design paired with internal padding and mesh windows, so your pet can stay comfy during the flight or in the car. The carrier features a handle and a padded shoulder strap, making it easy and comfortable to carry through the airport. A waterproof outer material keeps your cat safe and dry, even in bad weather, while end panels hold their shape so the carrier doesn’t collapse down.

When you’re done using it, this carrier folds up flat for easy, space-saving storage.

Best hard-sided cat carrier

The Petmate Vari Dog and Cat Kennel is a hard-sided carrier that meets USDA and IATA pet travel requirements, so it’s a great choice whether you plan to fly or drive. The kennel is equipped with a squeeze latch door for secure travel. Side and rear ventilation ensure your cat gets plenty of air, while a seatbelt loop notch on the top lets you easily buckle your cat into place for extra safety.

Assembling this carrier is easy, and the plastic quickly wipes clean. There’s even an internal moat, so if your cat does have to relieve himself during a long trip, he’s able to stay up and out of the mess. The carrier is available in three sizes, so you can choose the size that’s just right for your cat.

Best stylish cat carrier

If you’re looking to impress, the Mr. Peanut’s Airline Approved Soft Sided Pet Carrier is bound to turn heads. This distinctive-looking carrier is available in multiple stylish colors, and its sophisticated design will have you and your cat looking polished, whether you’re strolling through the airport or getting in and out of the car.

This carrier features a plush faux fleece padding to keep your cat comfy, while breathable mesh windows on the top and four sides maximize ventilation. A zippered pocket is perfect for treats and other must-haves, while a padded shoulder strap and carry handle make for comfortable and easy transportation. This carrier even has automatic self-locking zippers that can’t be opened from inside, so it can help to keep your cat from escaping.

Best expandable cat carrier

Whether you’re flying or driving, your cat can use a little extra space to stretch out during a long trip. The Mr. Peanut’s Expandable Airline Approved Soft Sided Pet Carrier offers that capability. This carrier features a size that, when unzipped, expands into an extra space for your cat, allowing him to sleep more comfortably and easily turn around.

This carrier also features a ventilated top, meaning it meets the regulations of most major airlines. There’s also mesh on all four sides of the carrier, so your cat can see what’s going on and will get plenty of fresh air. The travel bed is removable, and the carrier has a plywood base that gives your cat support. There’s a zippered storage pocket for your essentials, including plenty of treats, and there are also seatbelt attachments if you choose to drive.

Best carrier for in-cabin travel

The Sherpa Original Deluxe Lattice Stitch Travel Bag Pet Carrier is designed to meet the strict requirements for carriers used for in-cabin travel. This airline-approved carrier features a spring wire frame that can be pushed down, allowing it to fit underneath airplane seats. It also features mesh sides that allow for plenty of ventilation, while a top and side entry option makes it easier to get your cat into the carrier.

The carrier’s locking zippers help to prevent escapees. The base liner is removable and machine washable for easy cleaning, and the base is waterproof, just in case of any accidents. When you’re not flying, this carrier doubles as a soft-sided crate or carrier for trips around town and to the vet.

When you’re choosing a carrier and are planning to fly, always confirm that the carrier meets the requirements of the airline that you plan to use. Different airlines have different requirements, and requirements for in-cabin travel can also vary from cargo travel specifications. To get the most use out of your carrier, look for one that isn’t only suitable for use when you fly, but that’s also convenient enough to use during shorter trips, like visits to the vet. Investing in a good, versatile carrier is a great choice, especially since it can help to keep your cat safe and comfortable, so your trip is less stressful for your best friend.