Published Feb 2, 2021
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Dogs make great travel companions because you can simply snap on a leash and head out. Cats are a bit more challenging. They can be skittish and averse to leash-training, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still take them with you when you adventure outside the house.
All you need is a cat backpack. It may sound a bit silly, but cat backpacks are a safe, comfortable way to travel with your cat. After all, your cat deserves to see the world too!
There are plenty of cat backpacks out there, but they aren’t all worthy of your consideration. We’ve done the research and read the reviews to bring you our top picks for the best cat backpacks on the market.
At a Glance: 10 Best Cat Backpacks To Buy
In the comparison table below, we’ve highlighted some of the most important features of each product. You’ll find more detailed information about each cat carrier backpack later in the article.
Travel Cat “The Fat Cat” Cat Backpack
- Designed for cats up to 25 pounds
- Bubble window and screen attachment
- Clip and bungee for leash attachment
PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack
- Affordably priced under $25
- Available in 9 different colors
- Plenty of ventilation for comfort
Morpilot Cat Backpack Carrier
- Strong ventilation and easy visibility
- Spacious interior with two external storage pockets
- Built-in safety strap and locking zippers
Lollimeow Large Cat Backpack Carrier
- Sturdy construction and large size
- Bubble window for visibility
- Durable, waterproof, and scratch-resistant materials
Midwest Day Tripper Cat Backpack
- Durably constructed from lightweight materials
- Airline approved, plenty of ventilation
- Padded shoulder straps and waist buckle
Travel Cat “The Navigator” Convertible Cat Backpack
- Breathable mesh windows on three sides
- Water reservoir pocket
- Numerous zippered pockets for storage
LEMONDA Portable Pet Travel Carrier
- Made from lightweight, durable materials
- Swap out the bubble for a mesh cover
- Thread lock ring and internal lock
KOPEKS Deluxe Travel Airline-Approved Cat Carrier Backpack
- Three large ventilation panels
- Wheels and telescoping handle
- Made from durable oxford fabric
Lollimeow Bubble Pet Carrier Backpack
- Expands into a tent for added space
- Lightweight but durable materials
- Available in several different colors
Texsens Pet Backpack Carrier
- Three large mesh ventilation panels
- Folds flat for storage when not in use
- Padded shoulder straps and chest buckles
Before we jump into the individual product reviews of the 10 best cat backpacks, let’s take a moment to learn about cat backpacks and what you should be looking for when you start shopping.
Why Should You Trust Us?
We are lifelong cat lovers and devoted cat owners, so we’ve had plenty of time to learn what it takes to make a great cat product.
We’ve done extensive research on cat carriers, read hundreds of customer reviews, and tested several options ourselves to get a feel for what it takes to make a cat carrier truly great. We did additional research on cat backpacks and have read reviews for all the most popular models on the market. You can see the full video review below:
Based on extensive research and customer reviews, we’ve selected the following cat backpacks as the best options currently available on Chewy and Amazon.
What To Look For in a Cat Backpack?
A cat backpack is a safe and comfortable way to carry your cat whether you’re traveling to the vet, going on vacation, or taking your cat for a hike.
All cat backpacks are not created equal. It’s important to evaluate the design of the backpack, the quality of the materials, and the level of safety and comfort it affords your cat. Here are a few things you should look for:
- Materials – Consider the materials used for the body of the backpack as well as the straps – you want to make sure your cat will be safely contained. The material should be durable and thick enough to hold up against sharp cat claws but not so heavy it becomes difficult to carry.
- Support – A good cat backpack should have a sturdy base to support your cat’s weight and heavy-duty straps for use in carrying the backpack.
- Comfort – Make sure you pick a cat backpack large enough to comfortably accommodate your cat and look for interior padding as well. You should also consider your own comfort – check to make sure the straps are wide and adjustable. Check for ventilation as well!
- Durability – Not only does the backpack need to support your cat’s weight, but it should be durable enough to last through many uses. If you’re taking your cat hiking, it may also need to hold up against inclement weather and spot-cleaning as needed.
- Convenience – Check the zippers and other closures to make sure it’s easy enough to get your cat into and out of the bag. It also doesn’t hurt if the bag has extra pockets for things like treats and a collapsible water dish. Your cat backpack should be functional.
- Security – Finally, make sure your cat is going to be safe inside the bag. That means reinforced seams, locking zippers, and maybe an internal leash to keep your cat restrained.
As you start shopping around, you’ll find that many cat backpacks look alike. Looks can be deceiving, however, so be sure to consider the factors listed above when making your selection.
The Top 10 Cat Backpacks Reviewed
#1 Overall Best: Travel Cat “The Fat Cat” Cat Backpack
Our top pick for the overall best cat backpack is the Travel Cat “The Fat Cat” backpack. We’ve included several Travel Cat backpacks on this list because their products are high-quality, thoughtfully designed, and well-liked by cats and cat owners alike.
The Fat Cat backpack is an enclosed backpack with mesh ventilations panels on both sides, three airholes along the bottom, and an interchangeable bubble on the front. If your cat likes to keep cozy or prefers to keep his distance from the outdoors, the bubble attachment is ideal. For cats who prefer the see and smell the outdoors – or for days when a little extra ventilation might be appreciated – swap it out for the screen attachment.
What we really love about this cat backpack is the thoughtful design. Generously sized, this roomy backpack accommodates cats up to 25 pounds or even two medium-sized cats. It features a clip and bungee attachment so you can attach your cat’s leash and there are storage pockets on both sides.
To make sure you’re comfortable as well, The Fat Cat comes with adjustable shoulder straps and a chest strap to evenly distribute your cat’s weight for optimal support and comfort.
What We Liked:
- Designed for larger cats up to 25 pounds
- Plenty of ventilation on three sides
- Interchangeable bubble or screen attachment
- Adjustable shoulder and chest straps for comfort
What We Didn’t Like:
- Fairly expensive
- Limited space for storage
#2 Best Budget: PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack
You don’t necessarily need to spend a fortune on a cat carrier – this PetAmi Premium Pet Carrier Backpack is proof of that. Priced around $25, it’s a total steal.
This cat backpack comes in nine different colors, all perfectly sized for small to medium-sized cats. It is well-ventilated for your cat’s comfort and has a soft Sherpa lining in the bottom of the carrier as well. Plus, it comes with a collapsible pet bowl you can hook to the outside of the bag for convenience.
The PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack comes with both waist and chest buckles for maximum comfort and support. You’ll also find side pockets to store your necessities.
This cat backpack is durably constructed from 600D high-grade polyester and equipped with a safety strap to keep your cat secure. You’ll have a hard time finding a better cat backpack at such an affordable price point.
What We Liked:
- Affordably priced under $25
- Plenty of ventilation to keep cat comfortable
- Available in nine different colors
- Comes with a collapsible water bowl
What We Didn’t Like:
- Zippers don’t lock for added security
- May not be big enough for very large cats
#3 Best For Small Cats: Morpilot Cat Backpack Carrier
If you have a small cat, there’s no sense in buying a giant cat backpack. The Morpilot Cat Backpack Carrier is a great choice because it has plenty of space for a smaller cat without making the backpack large and cumbersome to carry.
This cat backpack is durably constructed from eco-friendly polyester materials that are lightweight, wear-resistant, and scratch-resistant.
What we really love about this cat backpack, however, is the ventilation. This backpack features a large ventilation panel in the front, on the top, and on both sides of the carrier. This helps keep your cat cool and comfortable while also improving visibility from inside the carrier.
The Morpilot Cat Backpack Carrier features adjustable straps for the shoulders, chest, and waist. This makes it easy to adjust the straps for your own comfort and your cat’s support.
It also comes in a built-in safety strap and lockable zippers for an added degree of safety. The bottom of the carrier is sturdy and covered in a cushion for your cat’s comfort. Plus, it is double-sided and removable for your convenience.
What We Liked:
- Plenty of ventilation and visibility for your cat
- Spacious interior with two external storage pockets
- Built-in safety strap and lockable zippers
What We Didn’t Like:
- May not be supportive enough for large cats
- Mesh materials could be more durable
#4 Best For Large Cats: Lollimeow Large Cat Backpack Carrier
When you have a large cat, you need a backpack that is big enough not only to hold your cat but to give him space to stay comfortable. The Lollimeow Large Cat Backpack carrier is generously sized and can support cats weighing up to 26 pounds.
This cat backpack is made from durable materials that are surprisingly lightweight. These materials are scratch-resistant and waterproof as well, which makes cleanup easy.
The Lollimeow Large Cat Backpack carrier features a top opening to easily get your cat into and out of the bag as well as a plastic bubble for added visibility. The sides of the backpack are mesh for ventilation, and you can replace the transparent window with a mesh cover if you prefer for added air circulation.
This Lollimeow pet carrier backpack may be a little more expensive than many models, but it is well worth it if you have a bigger cat. You’ll appreciate the added support and durability as well as the adjustable shoulder, waist, and chest straps for your own comfort.
What We Liked:
- Sturdy construction and large size (cats up to 26 pounds)
- Bubble window for visibility, side ventilation
- Durable materials, waterproof and scratch-resistant
What We Didn’t Like:
- More expensive than some models
- Zippers don’t lock, security leash may break easily
#5 Best For Air Travel: Midwest Day Tripper Cat Backpack
If you like to travel with your cat by plane, you’ll need an airline approved carrier. Though many hard-sided and soft-sided carriers will do the trick, they can be difficult to manage on top of your luggage and carry-ons. That’s where this Midwest Day Tripper Cat Backpack comes in handy.
This cat backpack is durably constructed and airline approved. It comes in three colors as well, so you can choose the one that best matches your luggage.
The Midwest Day Tripper Cat Backpack is generously sized, though the manufacturer recommends a top weight of 10 pounds, and the travel carrier itself is very lightweight. It features front and top access doors to easily get your cat into and out of the carrier, and it folds flat for storage when not in use.
In terms of comfort, the inside of the carrier is lined with a reversible cushion and the backpack features padded straps and a waist buckle. Plus, it has an exterior storage pocket and a water bottle holder. You can carry your cat and everything he needs at the same time.
What We Liked:
- Durably constructed from lightweight materials
- Airline approved, plenty of ventilation for comfort
- Padded shoulder straps and waist buckle
What We Didn’t Like:
- Only recommended for cats up to 10 pounds
- Somewhat more expensive than other models
#6 Best For Hiking: Travel Cat “The Navigator” Convertible Cat Backpack
The next time you head out on a hiking trip, you no longer have to leave your cat behind. With the Travel Cat “The Navigator Convertible Cat Backpack, you can bring your cat along in comfort and safety.
This cat backpack is pretty pricey, but it’s uniquely designed for outdoor adventures. Constructed from durable materials, the backpack itself is incredibly lightweight and features sturdy, breathable mesh windows on all three sides. Despite being so lightweight, this backpack holds up to 25 pounds of cat.
The Navigator is thoughtfully designed for hiking as well as travel. With two flexible side pouches and a zippered pocket with three interior compartments, there’s plenty of room for your cat and his essentials. You’ll also enjoy the convenience of a water reservoir pocket so you can easily keep yourself and your cat hydrated during your trip.
Like all Travel Cat models, this versatile backpack includes adjustable chest and shoulder straps but has the addition of an adjustable waist strap. You’ll also find two clips inside to tether your cat’s harness or leash as well as locking zippers and a removable, foldable mat.
What We Liked:
- Lightweight but durable design
- Plenty of storage with room to keep your cat comfortable
- Adjustable shoulder, chest, and waist straps
- Locking zippers and multiple clips for harness or leash
What We Didn’t Like:
- Fairly expensive
- Light grey color may stain easily
#7 Best Bubble Backpack: LEMONDA Portable Pet Travel Carrier Backpack
When you have your cat in a backpack, you want to make sure they can see out, but you don’t want to compromise ventilation. The LEMONDA Portable Pet Travel Carrier hits the mark on both with its transparent bubble centered on the back of the backpack.
With this cat carrier, your cat will enjoy total security inside the bag but will also be able to see out. You can use the transparent bubble cover for maximum visibility or swap it out for the mesh cover for added ventilation. The bubble has three air holes in the bottom as well, so you really don’t have to worry either way. Your feline friend will get plenty of fresh air.
The LEMONDA Portable Pet Travel Carrier is made from canvas and high-density acrylic materials, so it is incredibly durable but still surprisingly lightweight.
What we really love about this cat bubble backpack, however, is the built-in safety features. The bubble has a thread lock ring to keep the bubble or mesh cover in place, and there is a built-in lock to keep your cat from getting out when you’re not wearing the backpack.
What We Liked:
- Made from lightweight but durable materials
- Swap out the bubble for a mesh cover
- Built-in safety features like thread lock ring and internal lock
What We Didn’t Like:
- May retain heat more than other models
- Not recommended for very large cats
#8 Best Roller Backpack: KOPEKS Deluxe Travel Airline-Approved Cat Carrier Backpack
Being able to carry your cat around on your back is great, but there may be times when you want to put him down. The KOPEKS Deluxe Travel Cat Carrier Backpack is our recommendation for the best roller cat backpack. It comes in two colors: black and gray.
This roller backpack is made from oxford fabric for durability and has three large mesh ventilation panels for breathability and visibility.
In addition to the wheeled platform, this cat backpack has two front legs that keep the backpack level when you put it down. It comes with a telescoping handle for convenience as well as padded shoulder straps and a carrying handle. Plus, it has two large storage pockets to hold everything you need.
You’ll also be glad to know this carrier is approved by most airlines.
What We Liked:
- Three large ventilation panels
- Wheels and telescoping handle for convenience
- Made from durable oxford fabric
What We Didn’t Like:
- Somewhat pricey compared to other options
- No waist or chest straps
#9 Best Expandable: Lollimeow Bubble Pet Carrier Backpack
When choosing a cat backpack, you want to find one that’s large enough to comfortably carry your cat. Unfortunately, the larger the backpack is, the more awkward it may be to carry. That’s where expandable cat backpacks come into place.
The Lollimeow Bubble Pet Carrier Backpack comes in an expandable model which opens into a large tent bed you can use when you’re not wearing the backpack. Basically, the back of the backpack folds down into a mesh tent to give your cat some extra space.
This cat backpack is made from durable but lightweight materials that are waterproof and easy to clean. The front of the backpack consists of a clear plastic bubble that gives your cat maximum visibility with large ventilation holes on the front and sides.
The Lollimeow Bubble Pet Carrier Backpack also features a mesh zippered entry on the side for added ventilation and to make it easier to get your cat into the backpack without having to unzip it completely.
What We Liked:
- Expands into a tent for added space
- Lightweight but durable materials, easy to clean
- Available in several different colors
What We Didn’t Like:
- May retain heat more than some models
- Zippers don’t lock in place
#10 Best For Ventilation: Texsens Pet Backpack Carrier
When you’re traveling with your cat, it’s important to keep him safely contained but he still needs plenty of air circulation. The Texsens Pet Backpack Carrier is our top pick for the cat backpack with the most ventilation.
This cat backpack features three PVC mesh panels on the sides for optimal airflow and maximum visibility. You don’t have to worry about your cat overheating in this backpack.
The Texsens Pet Backpack Carrier is very lightweight but made from durable materials that resist scratches and stains. It is designed to fit medium-sized cats up to 18 pounds and it has padded shoulder straps and an adjustable chest strap.
This cat backpack is comfortable to wear and easy to use. You can unzip the top to get your furry friend into or out of the carrier or unzip the entire side. When you’re not using the backpack, it conveniently folds flat for easy storage.
What We Liked:
- Large mesh sides for ventilation
- Folds flat for storage when not in use
- Padded shoulder straps and chest buckles
What We Didn’t Like:
- May not stand up to heavy scratching/chewing
- May tip over when sitting upright
Tips for Using a Cat Backpack
Once you’ve chosen your cat backpack, you may think the hard part is over. Unfortunately, that might not be the case.
Not all cats take to cat carriers and cat backpacks. If you’ve had a hard time getting your cat into a carrier in the past, you’re likely to have the same struggle with a cat backpack. The good news is you can work with your cat to get him used to the backpack, so he doesn’t put up such a fight.
Train your cat using positive reinforcement.
Cats respond well to positive reinforcement training – the trick is to find something your cat wants that you can use to motivate him. For the most part, some tasty treats will do the trick, or you might try using your cat’s favorite toy.
Here’s how to teach your cat to like the backpack:
- Place the cat backpack on the floor in a room your cat tends to frequent.
- Open up the backpack and place a few treats or your cat’s favorite toy inside.
- Give your cat the freedom to come over and sniff the backpack.
- Praise your cat verbally and offer more treats when your cat gets close to the backpack or goes inside.
- Once your cat has gotten comfortable going into the backpack on his own, start zipping it closed a little with your cat inside.
- Pause for a few seconds before unzipping it and releasing your cat.
Using this training sequence, you can gradually get your cat used to spending longer periods of time in the cat backpack. Hopefully after a few training sessions your cat will no longer be nervous about the backpack, and you won’t have a hard time putting him into it when you need to.
1000 hours of research, huh? Wow! Why not post some photos of the ones you supposedly tested in action?
Hi there, we’ve updated the article with a photo as requested.
Thank you for taking the time to review these catpacks and post your findings! This is the best review that I’ve found yet.
Thankyou for your research and advice. Much appreciated. Like you say, it’s very hard to find cat backpacks that have all requirements for cat and owner. In Australia the pet stores don’t seem to stock them and on-line looks like my only option. I don’t like buying unseen.
Thanks again.