When you need to safely transport your beloved feline friend, where do you put them? Choosing the right cat kennel can feel like a huge puzzle. You want your cat to be comfortable and secure, but many carriers look flimsy or too cramped. It’s stressful when you worry if your pet will panic during a car ride or a trip to the vet.
Finding a kennel that balances safety, durability, and your cat’s happiness is key. A poor choice means stress for both of you. This guide cuts through the confusion. We break down the essential features you must look for, from ventilation to size.
By the end of this post, you will know exactly what makes a great cat kennel. Get ready to confidently select the perfect, safe haven for your cat’s next journey!
Top Cat Kennels Recommendations
- Hard sided pet carrier with 1 door for front entry; suitable for a cat, dog, or other small pet
- Durable molded plastic construction; locking door mechanism for secure closure
- Top handle for easy carrying
- Metal wire door and side panels provide ventilation
- Product Dimensions: 23.6 x 15.7 x 13 inches (LxWxH)
- Hard sided pet carrier with 2 doors for front and top entry; suitable for cat or medium size dog weighing 12 - 20 pounds
- Durable plastic construction with steel wire doors; screws keep the top and bottom sections securely connected
- Spring load latches ensure easy one-handed door opening and closing; top door swings open to the left or right and includes a top carry handle
- Plenty of air ventilation on the sides, top, and back of the carrier
- Note: Be sure to measure the size of the pet when choosing carrier size
- Tall 3-tier indoor cat cage playpen provides cats or kittens with a safe place to rest or play
- Durable rust-resistant steel wire construction with secure-locking door latches and 1.36 inch bar spacing for safety
- Sets up quickly; 4 locking wheels for smooth maneuvering and secure placement; folds down flat for easy carrying and compact storage
- 2 swing-open doors for easy upper and lower interior access; 3 interior shelves offer vertical space for perching or napping; Removable leak-proof plastic floor pan for easy cleaning
- Product Dimensions: 35.8 x 22.4 x 50.6 inches (LxWxH)
- Pet Carrier: 17.5” L x 11” W x 11” H, Recommended max load of 16 lbs cats small dogs. Please do not choose your carrier based on weight--please reference your pet's length and height in selecting a pet carrier size.
- Fits for under-seat dimensions of most airlines. Every airline has a specific set of rules and regulations, please contact with airline before flying with your cats small dogs.
- Mesh windows for ventilation, top and side entry with locking zippers for safety. Carrying handles, adjustable shoulder strap which can also be used as seatbelt, and back strap can fasten the pet carrier to your luggage.
- Pet carrier comes with a removable base insert, which creates a solid surface for your pet to stand on, along with a removable & hand washable cozy fleece pet bed, which offers a cozy sleeping space for your traveling cats small dogs.
- "Toys for pets, of textile materials". Mostly used as a Toy of Fabric Pet Home for pets playing and relaxing.
- Sturdy Plastic Dog Crate: Securely and safely protect your pet and your home with this small dog crate that features an easy-open latch to secure the sturdy wire door, and durable fold-down handle making carrying this dog travel crate a breeze
- Suitable for Pets 15-20 lbs: Pet Kennel exterior dimensions - 24" L x 16.7" W x 14.5" H; Interior dimensions - 21.5" L x 15" W x 13.5" H. Product weight – 5 lbs. If in doubt, buy a size up. No tools required for assembly
- Airline Friendly Dog Carrier: This pet carrier meets most airline cargo specifications. This travel dog crate also has ventilation on 4 sides. Includes built in storage for additional pet identification
- Easy to Keep Clean: Sturdy plastic shell on this dog carrier is easy to clean, with stay-dry moat that surrounds the interior to pulls fluids away from your pet in case of wet accidents, making it a great puppy carrier or kennel trainer for housebreaking
- For Pets and Pet Parents: Petmate provides everyday essentials for pet parents, dogs, cats and other pets such as: litter box accessories, pet toys, cat cages, dog cages, gravity water/food bowls, dog cages, pet beds, puppy crates, cat carriers and more!
- 【Indoor/Outdoor Cat Enclosure】Measuring 24" L x 16" W x 36" H, the catio outdoor cat enclosure is ideal for 1-3 cats indoor. The spacious cat cage is also suitable for other small pets like rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchilla, ferret, squirrel, etc. We provide free hammock, you could purchase other cat supplies to decorate the metal wire cat enclosure, making a spacious and comfy room for your cats indoor or outdoor. Please check the dimensions before purchasing
- 【Multi-door Design】Our cat playpen provide 3 doors. You can assemble the doors at different places of this cat crate, which would be super convenient to interact with your pet, feed, clean the cat cages indoor and easy access for the small animals
- 【Safe Platform & Ramp】The platforms connected by ramps allowing your small pets to climb and explore safely. This 3-tier cat playpen for indoor cats enclosed provides cats or kittens a secure and stimulating environment to play and rest
- 【Easy To Assemble】Customize Your Perfect Cat Kennel! You can DIY assemble this cat cage with the accessories included in the this jaula para gatos. You can tailor the size and layout to match your style and your cat’s needs. ATTENTION: To ensure its stability: ①The connectors need to be fully tightened. ②Use the wooden hammer to reinforce the connectors. ③Tie the panels with zip ties to further reinforce the entire product. ④Read the manual carefully
- 【Sturdy and Durable】With unique anti-tipping design, secure the indoor cat enclosure to the wall with expansion screws and fixed straps. Crafted from durable rust-resistant steel wire, the cat cages comes with door locks and upgraded connectors, while included zip-ties increase the stability and durability of the kitten cage
- IDEAL FOR UP TO 10 LB DOGS: Measures 18.5 x 12.5 x 14.5 inches – perfect for Maltese, Japanese Chin, Brussels Griffon & similar breeds. For dogs near 10 lbs, consider sizing up to our 22-inch model so they have plenty of room to get comfortable.
- WE DON'T CUT CORNERS, WE PERFECT THEM: Precision welding, rounded corner clips & slide-bolt latch with Paw Block mitigate snags, cuts & escapes. With rigorous safety testing, iCrate provides peace of mind knowing your dog is safe while you're away.
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Sturdy metal wire design with a protective black e-coat finish, the iCrate resists rust and everyday wear. Complete with leak-proof tray, rubber feet, carry handle, and tool-free assembly, it's ready for years of use.
- SUPPORTS CRATE TRAINING: A divider panel lets the crate grow with your dog, from puppy kennel to full-size crate. Large openings and low thresholds ease the crate training process and help your dog feel more at home.
- LIFE GOES BETTER WITH PETS: A family-owned business based in Indiana, MidWest Homes for Pets brings over 100 years of pet product expertise and a commitment to quality, rigorous safety testing, and excellent US-based customer service.
- Medium 4-door folding pet travel kennel with soft sides for cats, dogs, rabbits, and other small animals
- Top door for sunlight and breathability, front and side doors with zipper lock clips for added security; Included straps to roll up and secure fabric doors when leaving the portable dog crate open
- Carrying handle and padded shoulder strap for easily transporting when pet kennel is folded; includes removable fleece pet bed pad
- Convenient pop-up pet crate design can be set up and folded down in seconds with no tools required
- Product Dimensions: 30 x 21 x 21 inches (LxWxH). Water-resistant base
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Finding the Perfect Cat Kennel
Choosing the right cat kennel is important for your feline friend’s safety and comfort. Whether you need a carrier for vet visits or a temporary home for travel, this guide will help you make the best decision. We look at what matters most so your cat stays happy.
1. Key Features to Look For
Good kennels have features that make life easier for both you and your cat. Think about these important parts:
- Security and Locking Mechanisms: The door must lock securely. You do not want your cat escaping, especially during car rides. Look for strong latches that a curious paw cannot easily open.
- Ventilation: Airflow is crucial. Kennels must have plenty of vents or mesh windows on multiple sides. Good ventilation keeps the air fresh and prevents your cat from feeling trapped or overheated.
- Size and Space: The kennel should allow your cat to stand up, turn around easily, and lie down comfortably. A space that is too small causes stress.
- Easy Cleaning Access: Accidents happen. Look for kennels with removable trays or doors that open wide. Cleaning should be fast and simple.
2. Important Materials
The material affects durability, weight, and how easy it is to clean. Different materials suit different needs.
Hard Plastic Carriers
These are very popular. Hard plastic is durable and easy to wipe down. It offers excellent protection against bumps. Ensure the plastic is thick and does not crack easily.
Wire Crates
Wire crates offer the best ventilation. They are lightweight. However, they might feel less secure to some cats. If you choose wire, make sure the spacing between the wires is small enough so your cat cannot slip through.
Soft-Sided Carriers
These are great for short trips. They are lightweight and often fit under airplane seats. Look for strong nylon or canvas fabric. Mesh panels should be tear-resistant.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality matters for longevity and your cat’s well-being. High-quality kennels often cost more, but they last longer and provide better safety.
What Improves Quality:
- Sturdy Hardware: Metal hinges and strong zippers (for soft carriers) show better craftsmanship.
- Comfort Padding: Removable, washable fleece or foam bedding adds comfort, reducing travel anxiety.
- Airline Compliance: If you plan to fly, check that the carrier meets specific airline size and door requirements.
What Reduces Quality (Things to Avoid):
- Sharp Edges: Inspect plastic seams or wire joints. Sharp edges can injure your cat.
- Flimsy Doors: Doors that wobble or feel weak are a major safety risk.
- Poor Ventilation: Any kennel with very small or few air holes should be avoided.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Think about *why* you need the kennel. This dictates the style you should buy.
Vet Visits and Short Trips:
Soft-sided or small, top-loading plastic carriers are ideal. Top-loading makes placing a reluctant cat inside much easier.
Long-Distance Travel or Temporary Housing:
Sturdy, hard-sided kennels are recommended. They offer the best protection during accidents or rough handling. Ensure there is enough room for a small water dish to attach.
Home Use (Crate Training):
If the kennel stays mostly at home, a wire crate with a comfy cover can work well. Crate training helps cats view the kennel as a safe den, not just a scary box.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cat Kennels
Q: What size kennel do I really need?
A: Your cat must be able to stand up without its head touching the top, turn around completely, and lie down naturally. Measure your cat from nose to tail base, and add a few extra inches for roominess.
Q: Should I get a top-loading or front-loading kennel?
A: Many owners prefer top-loading carriers for nervous cats. It is easier to gently place a cat inside from above rather than pushing them through a front door.
Q: Are soft-sided carriers safe for car rides?
A: Yes, if they are secured. Many high-quality soft carriers come with straps to buckle them into the car seatbelt, which prevents sliding.
Q: How do I stop my cat from panicking in the kennel?
A: Introduce the kennel slowly at home weeks before travel. Put familiar blankets and treats inside. Never use the kennel only for bad experiences like the vet.
Q: Are plastic kennels heavy to carry?
A: Hard plastic kennels can be heavier than soft carriers, especially the larger sizes. Always lift with your knees, not your back, when carrying a cat.
Q: Can I attach a litter box inside a travel kennel?
A: Only for very long trips (like long car drives or moving). For short trips, adding a litter box takes up too much crucial standing room. Small puppy pads are better for short travel.
Q: What is the difference between a crate and a kennel?
A: The terms are often used interchangeably. Generally, “kennel” refers to a carrier for transport, while “crate” often means a larger, more permanent enclosure used in the home.
Q: Do I need to cover the kennel during transport?
A: A light cover or blanket can help reduce anxiety by making the space feel more den-like and blocking out scary sights.
Q: How often should I clean my cat’s kennel?
A: If used regularly, clean it thoroughly once a month. After any accidents or illnesses, clean it immediately with pet-safe disinfectant.
Q: Are metal wire crates safe for outdoor use?
A: Wire crates are generally not recommended for long-term outdoor shelter. They offer little protection from weather or predators. They are best used indoors.