The 12 Best Cat Backpacks of 2023

If you like traveling with your cat, you need to do it comfortably for both you and your pet. This is where a cat backpack comes in. Again, it is not practical to hold your cat all the time while on the move. You need to place him in a convenient place for easy carrying.

Considering that, we have researched and come up with a list of the best cat backpacks in the market. Read through, then select the most suitable one for you and your pet.

7 Best Cat Backpacks: Review

1. Best Overall: Lollimeow Bubble Backpack

• Dimensions: 12.5 x 11 x 16.5 inches
• Materials: Oxford, Polycarbonate
• Weight Limit: 13 lbs.
• Item Weight: 2.6 lbs.

This backpack owes its best overall status to its expandable design, clear window, and excellent ventilation. It has a zipper around the back panel that opens up an expandable tent bed, which gives your cat more playing and resting space.

The other side is fitted with a clear polycarbonate window that lets your cat see everything as you go outdoors for walks and hikes.

Nine ventilation holes and two nets keep fresh air flowing inside to keep your pet cool. Apart from the window and nets, the other parts are made using pet-safe oxford material that is lightweight, waterproof, and easy to clean.

All in all, this is one of the best cat bubble backpacks, but it only has a single pocket. This might not be enough to keep all the pet food and accessories for the trip.

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2. Best Budget: Morpilot Cat Backpack

• Dimensions: 13 x 11 x 16.5 inches
• Material: Polyester
• Weight Limit: 15 lbs.
• Item Weight: 3.01 lbs.

Despite its reasonable price, Morpilot's cat backpack is durable, spacious, and has a convenient design. The product is built using eco-friendly polyester material, which is scratch and wear-resistant.

It is very roomy inside. The unit measures 13 x 11 x 16.5 inches and combined with the material's strength, it can accommodate cats weighing up to 15 lbs.

While transporting your pet, pockets on both sides give you convenient storage spaces for bowls, toys, snacks, etc. A foldable pet bowl is included, and you can use this to feed or water your cat.

You also get a mesh skylight and a reflective strip for nighttime safety. The only issue is that the bottom section digs into your lower back, which makes it uncomfortable. Some customers complained of this issue.

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3. Best Expandable: Pecute Pet Backpack

• Dimensions: 13.4 x 10.6 x 17.3 inches
• Material: Oxford
• Weight Limit: 18 lbs.
• Item Weight: 4.09 lbs.

Pecute's unit offers the most expandability in this cat backpack review because it increases your pet's space by 90%. Additionally, this extra space increases air circulation and reduces anxiety.

When folded back inside, the backpack features four side mesh windows and multiple entrances that include one on the side, top & back.

A shock-absorbing back panel gives you an easy time when carrying your pet. It consists of a honeycomb mesh elastic sponge that cushions and decompresses easily. On top of that, it is breathable for maximum comfort.

Another valuable feature is the double-sided bottom, which has a soft, plush side for winter use and an oxford cloth side for summer use. This section is removable for easy washing. On the downside, the product is expensive.

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4. Best for Hiking: Henkelion Bubble Bag

• Dimensions: 12.2 x 11.4 x 16.5 inches
• Materials: Oxford, ABS, Polycarbonate
• Weight Limit: 10 lbs.
• Item Weight: 3.39 lbs.

Hiking is all about getting good views from the top and this bubble bag is built for that. It has a large polycarbonate clear window that lets your cat enjoy nature as much as you are. This design makes it look like a space capsule, which looks very cool.

What's more, the unit has an ergonomic design that relieves pressure from your back for comfortable carrying. Also, the straps are absorbent and keep you free from having excessive sweat. All in all, you can wear it on the front or back, which makes one of the best cat hiking backpacks.

However, the product can only carry 10 lbs., which is the lowest in our review, and it has a single pocket. This storage space is not enough to hold treats, toys, and other items for the hike.

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5. Best Ventilated: Lollimeow Pet Backpack

• Dimensions: 15.2 x 11.4 x 16.5 inches
• Weight Limit: 16 lbs.
• Item Weight: 2.6 lbs.

This cat backpack is unique because it has a fully breathable mesh design on three of the four sides. In addition to ventilation, your pet gets complete visual ability and you get to monitor him easily at a glance.

The unit is very lightweight as it weighs only 2.6 lbs. This makes it very comfortable to carry. Additionally, it is airline-approved to fit under the seat so that your pet does not stay far from you when flying.

Two entrances (one on the side and the other at the top) give you convenience when loading or unloading your cat. You can use the upper window to give your pet some space to let out his/her head.

On the downside, a few buyers complained of some parts such as the zipper and safety strap being of low quality. As such, the product is best for small cats because they don't apply too much pressure on these parts. On the bright side, the backpack is very affordable.

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6. Best for Camping: PetAmi Deluxe Pet Backpack

• Dimensions: 12.5 x 10.2 x 16.3 inches
• Material: 600D Polyester
• Weight Limit: 18 lbs.
• Item Weight: 3.64 lbs.

PetAmi's Deluxe is the ultimate backpack to take your cat in when going camping as it has all you need for the trip and overnight stay. For starters, it has a durable 600D polyester construction with a firmly reinforced structure that prevents your cat from being collapsed on.

Additionally, a safety strap and buckle are built in to secure your pet from escaping into the bush. To top it off, a collapsible pet bowl is included to help keep your pet hydrated and fed while at camp or on the go.

On your end, the backpack features a breathable padded back mesh and shoulder straps for maximum comfort & moisture wicking. However, some customers expressed displeasure with the lower back padding. It is not comfortable enough, especially when carrying large cats.

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7. Most Comfortable: Apollo Walker Pet Backpack

• Dimensions: 12.6 x 11.4 x 16.8 inches
• Item Weight: 3.72 lbs.

Apollo Walker's unit is one of the best cat travel backpacks primarily due to its comfort. It has extra thick padding on the back and shoulder straps for hassle-free carrying during long trips. On top of this, you get chest and waist buckles for extra support.

That said, your cat is not left out in this as the backpack features soft fleece bedding for comfortable resting. Its interior is well ventilated and the frame is firmly structured to give your pet ample room to move around.

The only issue is a lack of reflective strips for safe nighttime use.

Other Recommended Cat Backpacks

8. Halinfer Cat Backpack

Halinfer's backpack is very practical because it has an expandable design to increase your pet's roaming space and tent bed. At the same time, it features a transparent bubble front that is a clear window to the surroundings. This feature comes in very handy when hiking.

The product is very lightweight because it weighs 2.5 lbs., and it can carry cats weighing 12 lbs. at most. Anti-scratching polyester material ensures the unit remains intact despite your cat unleashing its claws on it.

Key Features

• Expandable design.
• Transparent bubble front.
• Lightweight.
• Anti-scratching polyester construction.

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9. Petkit Pet Backpack

This is one of the best kitten backpacks because it affords the proper care that these small pets deserve. The unit features a built-in fan that improves airflow inside and keeps the temperature within comfortable levels. This fan is adjustable automatically or manually, and it works hand-in-hand with the clever Coanda Effect ventilation system.

Other than that, there is an interior light to keep your pet away from the dark and reflective tape on the straps to improve nighttime visibility.

Key Features

• Inbuilt fan.
• Clever Coanda Effect ventilation system.
• Interior light.
• Reflective tape.

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10. Lemonda Pet Carrier

Lemonda's pet carrier closely resembles a space capsule as it has a transparent protruding window. This gives your cat uninterrupted views of the scenery and sunshine to get a feel of the environment.

Large ventilation holes keep the air flowing in to keep your pet cool while a built-in lock keeps him from running away when you open the bag.

Key Features

• Transparent protruding window.
• Large ventilation holes.
• Built-in lock.

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11. Texsens Pet Carrier

Breathability & ventilation are important for cats, and Texsens' pet carrier ensures your pet gets plenty of this. Three of its sides are made using PVC mesh material to give optimal airflow.

Additionally, you get two large zippered pockets for keeping treats, toys, and other items for your pet. Overall, this is one of the best backpacks for cats as it can also hold large ones that weigh up to 18 lbs.

Key Features

• Three PVC mesh sides.
• Two large zippered pockets.
• High 18-lb weight capacity.

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12. Beikott Cat Backpack

Beikott's cat backpack gives you a good deal because it contains a soft mat, security leash, and collapsible pet bowl as extras. Other than that, the unit is a bubble bag with a large transparent window, which gives it a space capsule design.

The piece is durably built using anti-scratch oxford fabric and polyester. You also get two padded shoulder straps and multiple vent holes.

Key Features

• Includes a soft mat, security leash, and collapsible pet bowl.
• Large transparent window.
• Anti-scratch oxford fabric and polyester construction.
• Two padded shoulder straps.

How to Buy the Best Cat Backpacks

1. Size & Shape

The most noticeable feature of any cat backpack is its size and shape. Large bags with a boxy, rigid shape have more room inside to accommodate big cats. On the other hand, small bags with a tapered top have limited space, but are easier to carry.

Ideally, you should pick a backpack that fits your cat and if he likes extra space when resting, we recommend the extendable type. A perfect example is Pecute's pet backpack. Also, ensure you don't exceed the weight limit.

2. Security & Safety

The backpack should have strong zippers and seams to lock your cat inside securely. Additionally, look for an internal leash to hold the cat when you open the bag.

3. Comfort

Comfort is key when choosing the best cat carrier backpack. If you combine the weight of the bag plus that of the cat, it can be pretty heavy, so you need a well-padded back panel and straps. Chest and waist buckles are also important for extra support. These features can be found in Apollo Walker's pet backpack.

4. Ventilation

Proper ventilation prevents overheating and keeps a clean supply of air flowing inside for maximum freshness.

Backpacks with vent holes are not very effective at this as compared to mesh windows. However, they can prevent excessive cooling if you are traveling with your cat during winter.

With that in mind, we recommend backpacks with large mesh windows for use during other seasons as they also give your pet a good view of the outside environment. For this, be sure to check out Lollimeow's pet backpack.

5. Functionality

Some backpacks are built to improve specific functions like giving a clear view via a transparent window. Such units are ideal for activities like hiking as they will allow your pet to enjoy the scenery as much as you are. You should check out Henkelion's bubble bag if you want this feature.

6. Durability

Durability is determined by the build quality. Because cats have sharp claws, ensure the materials used are scratch and tear-resistant.

Q&A

1. Can I Put My Cat in Any Backpack?

No. This is very risky. Most regular backpacks don't have enough ventilation to keep your pet safe during the trip. Cat backpacks are specifically designed to keep him/her as comfortable as possible.

2. Do Cats Prefer Hard or Soft Carriers?

Soft carriers are better for cats that are calm travelers and don't mind small spaces. However, for stubborn travelers, a hard carrier is best as it gives more room to move around.

3. How Do I Get My Cat Used to Their Cat Backpack?

Open the backpack, then leave it on the floor. You can place some treats inside because the goal is for the pet to explore the bag. After about a week, he/she should have explored it enough to be used for transport during your trip.

4. How Long Can Cats Stay in A Backpack Carrier?

This depends. If the bag is not well ventilated, you might have to release him every 2 - 3 hours for hydration and to prevent overheating. Otherwise, if there is sufficient ventilation and he is well-fed & hydrated, he can go for up to 8 hours without having to pee or poop. However, ensure you give him as many breaks as possible during the trip.

5. Can You Put Two Cats in The Same Backpack Carrier?

This is not recommended, but you can try it for short distances, such as when going to the vet. After a long time, the pets can be cramped, irritable, and even aggressive towards each other. Avoid this as much as possible.

Buy on Etsy

SUNTIME PETS Cat Backpack Carrier, - Airline Approved Expandable Back for Small Pets/Cats - Walmart Link

LOLLIMEOW Pet Carrier Backpack, Bubble Backpack Carrier, Cats and - Walmart Link

GAPZER Pet Backpack Carrier, Foldable Expandable Carrier Bag for Small Dogs Cats, Puppies - Walmart Link

XZKING Cat Backpack Carrier Bubble Bag, Transparent Space Capsule Pet Carrier Dog Hiking - Walmart Link

Henkelion Cat Backpack Carrier Bubble Bag, Small Dog Backpack Carrier for Small Dogs, - Walmart Link

Expandable Cat Backpack, Space Capsule Transparent Pet Carrier for Small Dog, Pet - Walmart Link

Apollo Walker's pet backpack - Walmart Link

Buy on eBay

SUNTIME PETS Cat Backpack Carrier, - Airline Approved Expandable Back for Small Pets/Cats - eBay Link

LOLLIMEOW Pet Carrier Backpack, Bubble Backpack Carrier, Cats and - eBay Link

GAPZER Pet Backpack Carrier, Foldable Expandable Carrier Bag for Small Dogs Cats, Puppies - eBay Link

XZKING Cat Backpack Carrier Bubble Bag, Transparent Space Capsule Pet Carrier Dog Hiking - eBay Link

Henkelion Cat Backpack Carrier Bubble Bag, Small Dog Backpack Carrier for Small Dogs, - eBay Link

Expandable Cat Backpack, Space Capsule Transparent Pet Carrier for Small Dog, Pet - eBay Link

Apollo Walker's pet backpack - eBay Link

Conclusion

To recap, Lollimeow's bubble bag is our best cat backpack overall due to its practical design. It features an expandable bed, a large clear window for your pet to see the outdoors, and multiple ventilation holes.

However, Pecute's pet backpack offers the best expandability because it can increase your cat's space by 90%. The extra room is all covered in mesh material to improve aeration.

That said, if you want to go out with your cat during the hot summer season, Lollimeow's pet backpack is the best option as it is fully ventilated on three sides.