Top 5 Cat Backpacks: Your Essential Buying Guide

Ever dream of taking your feline friend on an adventure, but the thought of wrangling a grumpy cat on a leash makes you cringe? You are not alone! Many cat owners want to share their world with their pets, but traditional carriers feel bulky and confining. Choosing the perfect cat backpack solves this problem. It offers freedom for you and a safe, cozy spot for your kitty.

However, the market is flooded with options. Should you pick one with a bubble window or a mesh panel? How do you ensure it is comfortable and secure? These questions can make finding the right backpack feel like a chore instead of an exciting purchase. A bad choice leads to an unhappy cat and wasted money.

This guide cuts through the confusion. We break down the must-have features, discuss safety standards, and review popular styles so you can find the ideal carrier. Get ready to unlock stress-free outings with your whiskered companion. Let’s dive into finding the best cat backpack for your next journey!

Top Cat Backpack Recommendations

SaleBestseller No. 1

Texsens Innovative Traveler Bubble Backpack Pet Carriers for Cats and Dogs (Black)

Pet Backpack Dimensions: 12.6" L x 11.4" W x 16.5" H. Perfect for dogs up to 15-pounds, or cats up to 18-pounds. Easily fits cats, small dogs, and most other small/medium-sized pets! Please make sure your pet sits within 14.5 inches overall height and 12 inches wide
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 cosy 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

SaleBestseller No. 2

Cawypety Cat Backpack Carrier, Breathable Cat Carrier Large Space Bubble Pet Backpack for Kitty Small Dog up to 15lbs, Transparent & Foldable Pet Carrier for Travel Hiking

VENTILATED BACKPACK: With a breathable bubble window in the front, this clear pet backpack allows cats to enjoy the sun without feeling stuffy, there are exits on the side for pets to enter and exit, and you can also pet your kitten, which is the best ventilation in a space pack ever.
MORE SPACE AND FOLDABLE: Compared with others, our square design leaves enough space for cat (under 15 pounds)to turn around, besides, we design the backpack can be folded to very small package, and there are side pockets and hook holes, you will enjoy the greatest convenience when taking your cat out.
SAFETY & ANTI-SCRATCH: Made of 600d oxford cloth and nylon mesh, environmentally friendly and breathable. Not easily scratched by cat claws. There are protective films on the front and back of the shell, which is scratch-resistan, please watch our video to remove the membrane cleanly.
NO PRESSURE TO CARRY: The shoulder strap is equipped with a chest buckle to prevent the shoulder strap from falling, and the back is sewn with pearl cotton and breathable mesh, giving you a comfortable and breathable experience.
ANTI-ESCAPE AND DOUBLE SIDED CUSHION: Built-in harnesses keep your naughty friends from escaping, and the short plush cushion is double-sided for summer and winter. Can be disassembled and washed separately!

Bestseller No. 3

Cat Backpack Carrier Expandable for Outdoor - Foldable Cat Backpack with Breathable Mesh for Small Dog Puppy Kitten Up to 15 lbs - Soft-Sided Pet Carrier for Travel Hiking Camping (Gray)

Designed For Urban Cat Owners On The Move: This cat backpack offers a semi-circular expandable space that gives pets room to stretch and relax during subway rides or park walks. Say goodbye to cramped, stuffy pet carriers that stress your furry friend
Maximum Airflow & Visibility: Three-sided breathable mesh keeps the cat carrier well-ventilated while offering panoramic visibility. The 300D Oxford and PVC mesh ensures your cat feels safe, reducing overheating and travel anxiety in any season
Secure & Escape-Proof Design: Built with a lock-stop zipper, metal safety buckle leash, and reinforced seams, this cat carrier backpack prevents accidental openings. Ideal for nervous pets who tend to scratch or push - ensuring peace of mind every trip
Multi-Scene Travel Companion: Whether as a cat backpack or dog backpack carrier, it adapts easily to car seats, airplane seats, and trolleys case. Perfect for vet visits, hiking, camping, or weekend getaways with your pet
Trusted Quality & Durability: Made from premium 300D Oxford fabric and tested for durability, this cat backpack carrier supports up to 15 lbs. Loved by frequent travelers, cat and small dog owners who expect comfort, security, and long-term reliability

Bestseller No. 4

Cat Carrier Backpack, Pet Carrier Backpack Front Pack for Small Medium Cat Puppy Dog Carrier Backpack Bag Space Capsule, Airline-Approved Pet Carrier for Travel Hiking Walking Camping (Pink)

SPACE CAPSULE APPEARANCE: Transparent window design that cats are able to see everything, can ease your cute friends anxiety. And they don't need to stay home alone any more, enjoy more fun of travelling.
DURABLE & PET FRIENDLY MATERIAL: Made from solid ABS material and oxford cloth, our cat carrier backpack is waterproof, anti-scratch and pet-friendly. With nine-hole and air mesh, let your pet breathe freely and relax. Note: There is a layer of protective film on the backpack, please tear it off when you received it.
ERGONOMIC DESIGN: Thick Padded material provides waist and back with strong support. Adjustable padded shoulder straps and buckle help lighten the burden of shoulders. Thick handle make it effortless for you to carry. Can be used as front pack , backpack, or single-hand carrier bag.
GREAT DIMENSION: 14.2'' L x 10.2'' W x 15.7'' H. Recommended for pet weighs up to 18lbs. The pet carrier backpack is perfect for travelling, outdoor walking, hiking, camping, sightseeing. Important: Please measure your pet's size before purchase.

Bestseller No. 5

Cat Backpack Carrier, Pet Cat Carrier with Ventilated Design for Carrying Puppy Cats, Pet Carrier Backpack for Traveling/Hiking/Camping/Outdoors Airline Approved Travel Carrier(Pink)

Pet Carrier Backpack: This pet carrier backpack measures 12.2"L x 11.4"W x 16.5"H. Ideal for animals under 17lb. The transparent window provides a safe pet space while giving them full view of the area around them.
Breathable Material: Made of highly breathable materials, our backpack ensures that your pet stays cool and comfortable during travel. Every breath will be of pure comfort for your four-legged friend.
Designed for Pets Safety & Comfort: The snap hook inside to secure cat harness that ensures your friend stays safe during your trip, giving you peace of mind. This combined with the mesh windows on the side and vents will ensure your pet gets plenty of oxygen. Also features a washable soft pad on the bottom so your pet stays comfortable. Security and peace of mind are at your fingertips.
Ergonomic Design: Adjustable shoulder straps for maximum comfort, help relieve the pressure to your back and make the carrier a breeze to wear for long stretches of time.
Travel with Feline Friends with Us: Whether it be a visit to the vet, a trip to the park, or something more adventurous, travelling with your cat has never been easier.

Bestseller No. 6

Pecute Cat Backpack Carrier, Large Space Cat Bubble Backpack, Breathable Cat Carrier, Shaded Dog Backpack Carrier, Ergonomic 3D Design for Travel, Hiking, Suitable for Shopping, and Vet, Gray

Pet mobile safe house: This cat bubble backpack is strong and wide, with durable fabric, large space and convenient storage. It can not only resist animal bites, but also prevent the cat backpack from collapsing and squeezing the pet. All zippers are equipped with locks,and built-in safety leash ensuring the safety of pets and preventing them from escaping, while also allowing owners to take their pets out with peace of mind.
Breathable cat backpack that can block UV rays: The large mesh on both sides of the cat carrier allows natural wind to pass through easily, making the air inside the backpack smooth and comfortable. Lowering the waterproof sunshade can block UV rays from directly entering the cat bag.
Comfortable Carrying Experience: There is no pulling feeling when carrying the cat, and you don’t need to bend down when carrying it. The one-piece 3D printed back panel fits the back and improves the breathability of the back. A good cat backpack not only serves pets, but also serves pet owners.
Thoughtful Features: Includes front and side storage pockets for carrying pet essentials, snacks, leashes, waste bags, or medical records. The pet backpack is foldable for easy storage—when folded, it becomes slim enough to fit into a drawer, saving space. Comfortable and soft padding brings a good outing experience for pets. The padding can be removed for machine washing easly.
Friendly Reminder: Before purchasing, please measure your pet's size. The dimensions of the dog backpack are:16.5"×12.6"×10.2" (42×32×26cm) . Suitable for cats under 13.2lbs(6KG); suitable for dogs under 11lbs(5KG) with a body length not exceeding 16.4"(40cm). Pets weighing around 6.6-8.8lbs(3-4kg) will find it more comfortable. Pets under 6.6lbs(3kg) will have plenty of room.

Bestseller No. 7

PETUX Cat Backpack Carrier for Small Cat ＆ Dog up to 12 lb - Camouflage Style, Escape-Proof, Widened Interior, 3 Side Breathable Soft Sided Dog Backpack Carrier for Travel, Hiking and Vet - Green

3-SECURITY ESCAPE PREVENTION: The PETUX cat carrier backpack features a three-layer security structure—two-way self-locking zipper, a built-in adjustable safety leash, and an anti-scratch net—to prevent your cat and dog from escaping. Ideal for public transportation, crowded streets, and busy veterinary clinics where extra security is required
BREATHABLE AND COMFORTABLE LINING: The PETUX dog carrier backpack has a 3-sided mesh ventilation design that keeps airflow open and prevents your kitten and puppy from becoming anxious due to overheating. The kitten carrier allows your pet to have an open view while keeping the inside cool and fresh for walking, shopping, cycling, or trips
STURTY, NON-COLLAPSING FRAME STRUCTURE: The PETUX small cat carrier's reinforced support frame prevents injury to your furry friends from compression. Reinforced sides and bottom prevent sagging, creating a stable and spacious interior for your cat to sit or lie down comfortably. Ideal for everyday urban use and outdoor adventures
ERGONOMIC BACK SUPPORT: Designed with contoured, ergonomic shoulder straps and breathable back padding, this PETUX cat travel carrier distributes weight evenly to reduce pressure during long walks, commuting, hiking, or vet visits. The widened straps keep the backpack stable and comfortable for urban owners and travelers
CAMOUFLAGE DESIGN HIDES WEAR: The unique camo pattern helps conceal scratches, dirt, and daily wear, keeping your dog carrier backpacks looking clean and fresh even with frequent travel. A stylish and practical choice for city commuters, multi-pet families, and outdoor users

Bestseller No. 8

Pecute Cat Carrier Backpacks, Expandable Cat Backpack with Breathable Mesh, Pet Carrier Backpack for Cats Small Dogs Puppies Up to 17 Lbs, Dog Carrier Backpack Great for Travel Hiking Camping Outdoor

【 DIMENSIONS OF PET BACKPACK 】: Before purchasing, please measure the dog's sitting height (from front legs to the top of the head) to ensure that the dog's sitting height is within the recommended range, otherwise it may be too large or too small; L size: 17.4*13.4*10.6in, suitable for cats less than 15.4lbs; for dogs less than 13lbs and sitting height ≤15.6"; XL size: 19.3*15.7*12.9in, for cats that 15.4lbs~24lbs; for dogs 13lbs~22lbs, and sitting height /15.6"~17.6"
【 EXPANDABLE DESIGN 】: Expanded size: 13.4" L x 24.4" W x 17.3" H. This pet backpack with an expandable back design gives your pet more space to rest and increases air circulation, allowing your pet to move around more comfortably and reducing anxiety.
【 GREAT VENTILATION & COMFORT 】: 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. The pet backpack carrier offers multiple ways to let your pet in and out with ease. To enhance comfort, the pet cushion is placed inside the bag's bottom and has a removable, washable cover. This ensures your furry friend has a spot to rest while on the go.
【 ERGONOMIC DESIGN 】: The widened & padded shoulder straps and back provide support and help reduce load and increase comfort. 2 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, and non-irritating, let your pet breathe freely and relax. 2, Adopts lock-type zipper design to prevent the zipper from being opened by pets. Built-in retractable hook safety rope to prevent pets from escaping. 3, The pockets on both sides can store food, poop bags, and some necessary accessories.

The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Cat Backpack

Taking your feline friend on an adventure is easier than ever with a cat backpack. These carriers offer a safe and comfortable way to transport your cat. Picking the right one is important for both you and your pet. This guide will help you find the best fit.

1. Key Features to Look For

A good cat backpack needs several important features. These make the carrier safe and easy to use.

Visibility and Ventilation

Bubble Window or Mesh Panels: Cats need to see out. A clear bubble window lets them watch the world. Mesh panels offer great airflow. Make sure there are plenty of holes for fresh air.
Multiple Vents: Good ventilation prevents overheating. Look for vents on the sides and back.

Comfort and Security

Interior Leash Clip: This is crucial for safety. Attach your cat’s harness to this clip inside the bag. It stops them from jumping out when you open the zipper.
Comfortable Padding: Check the shoulder straps and the back panel. Thick padding makes carrying your cat for long periods much easier on your back.
Removable Mat: A soft, washable mat at the bottom gives your cat a cozy place to rest.

2. Important Materials

The material affects durability, weight, and breathability.

Durable Fabrics: Most good backpacks use sturdy polyester or nylon. These materials resist scratches and are easy to wipe clean.
Clear Plastic (for Bubbles): If you choose a bubble window, the plastic should be thick and scratch-resistant. Cheap plastic can yellow or crack quickly.
Breathable Mesh: Ensure the mesh used for ventilation is strong. Thin mesh tears easily.

3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Small details often separate a great backpack from a poor one.

Quality Boosters

Strong Zippers: Large, self-locking zippers are a sign of quality. They don’t break or slip open by themselves.
Sturdy Base: The bottom of the carrier must be firm. A floppy base makes the cat feel unstable, which causes stress.
Weight Capacity: Always check the maximum weight the manufacturer suggests. Do not overload the bag.

Quality Reducers

Strong Chemical Smell: If the bag smells heavily of chemicals when you unbox it, the materials might be low quality. Let it air out completely.
Flimsy Straps: Thin, narrow straps dig into your shoulders. Good quality bags have wide, adjustable straps.

4. User Experience and Use Cases

Think about why you need the backpack. This helps narrow down your choice.

Travel Scenarios

Vet Visits: A compact bag works well for short trips to the veterinarian. Prioritize easy access (top or front opening).
Hiking or Outdoors: For longer excursions, you need excellent support and more ventilation. A backpack with a built-in frame is best here.
Air Travel: If you plan to fly, check the airline’s specific size requirements. Many airlines require the carrier to fit under the seat, so measure carefully!

Remember, your cat’s comfort comes first. Introduce the backpack slowly at home before any big trips. Let your cat explore it while it sits on the floor. This builds positive association.

Cat Backpack Buying Guide FAQs

Q: How big should the backpack be for my cat?

A: The backpack should be large enough for your cat to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Measure your cat from nose to tail base and check the backpack’s internal dimensions against that measurement.

Q: Are bubble windows safe for cats?

A: Yes, bubble windows are generally safe. They provide great views, which reduces anxiety for curious cats. However, ensure the bubble is protected from direct, harsh sunlight, which can quickly overheat the interior.

Q: Can I use a cat backpack for a puppy?

A: Some small, lightweight dog breeds can use these carriers, but they are designed primarily for cats. Always check the weight limit. Dogs often need more rigid support than cat backpacks provide.

Q: How do I clean a cat backpack?

A: Most backpacks require spot cleaning. Remove the interior mat and wash it according to the instructions. Wipe the exterior fabric with a damp cloth and mild soap. Never submerge the entire bag unless the tag specifically says it is machine washable.

Q: What is the most important safety feature?

A: The internal leash clip is the most important safety feature. It prevents accidental escapes when you are opening the main zipper to check on your pet.

Q: Do all cat backpacks come with a shoulder strap?

A: Most high-quality cat backpacks include padded shoulder straps. Some larger models also feature a chest or waist strap. These extra straps help distribute the weight better.

Q: How long can my cat stay in the backpack?

A: For short trips, like a 30-minute drive to the vet, it is fine. For long hikes or extended travel, plan breaks every hour or two where the cat can stretch and drink water in a secure spot.

Q: Are hard-shell or soft-shell backpacks better?

A: Soft-shell backpacks are lighter and more flexible, often fitting under airplane seats better. Hard-shell carriers offer superior protection against bumps but weigh more.

Q: What if my cat is claustrophobic?

A: If your cat dislikes small spaces, choose a backpack with large mesh panels instead of a small bubble window. Also, look for models that open from the top, allowing easier access for you to soothe them.

Q: How heavy should the backpack be when empty?

A: An empty backpack should be as light as possible, ideally under 3 pounds for standard models. Heavy empty carriers quickly add strain to your shoulders once your cat is inside.