10 Best Soft Cat Carriers 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
Henkelion Large Soft Sided Cat and Pet Carrier for Cats and Puppies up to 25Lbs - Collapsible, Waterproof Travel Carrier - Black
The Henkelion Large Soft Sided Cat and Pet Carrier is a solid option for daily travel, car journeys, and trips to the pet hospital. It is designed for pets up to 25 lbs, but you should also consider the dimensions to ensure a comfortable fit for your pet (20 x 13 x 13 inches). Made from durable and lightweight polyester fabric, this carrier includes four-side mesh panels for excellent ventilation, allowing easy checks on your pet during travel.
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,155
Size and Dimensions
Weight Capacity
Material and Durability
Most important from
52450 reviews
#2
Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 4-Doors, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Cat, Dog, and Small Animals, Quick Setup, Small 26" x 18" x 18", Grey
The Amazon Basics 4-Doors Portable Soft-Sided Folding Travel Crate is a compact and lightweight option for small pets like cats, small dogs, and rabbits. Its size (26 x 18 x 18 inches) is suitable for small animals, and it weighs about 7.7 pounds, making it easy to carry around. The soft fabric material is water-resistant at the base, which adds some protection against spills or accidents, though soft-sided carriers generally won’t be as durable as hard plastic ones. Ventilation is good with four doors, including a top door that lets in sunlight and fresh air, and zipped doors on the front and sides for security and easy access. The multiple entry points make it convenient for pets to get in and out without stress. It also includes straps to keep the doors rolled open and a removable fleece pad for pet comfort.
Rating
8.5
Portability and Storage
Entry and Exit Points
Size and Dimensions
Most important from
18843 reviews
#3
Petmate Dog Crates for Small Dogs & Cat Carriers, Two-Door Plastic Pet Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Made in USA, 24" For Pets Up To 15 lb, Pearl Tan
The Petmate Dog Crate in the 24-inch size is a solid choice for small cats or dogs weighing up to 15 pounds. Its plastic build offers durability and is easy to clean, which is helpful if your pet has accidents or if you use it often for travel. The crate’s ventilation is good, with plenty of holes allowing for fresh air and visibility, helping your pet feel less confined. Having two doors—a front-loading and a top-loading option—makes it easier to get your pet in and out, which is a big plus for both cats and small dogs who can be tricky to manage.
Rating
8.2
Size and Dimensions
Material and Durability
Ventilation
Most important from
21129 reviews
Top 10 Best Soft Cat Carriers 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
Henkelion Large Soft Sided Cat and Pet Carrier for Cats and Puppies up to 25Lbs - Collapsible, Waterproof Travel Carrier - Black
Henkelion Large Soft Sided Cat and Pet Carrier for Cats and Puppies up to 25Lbs - Collapsible, Waterproof Travel Carrier - Black
Size and Dimensions: 20 x 13 x 13 inches
Weight Capacity: 25 lbs
Material and Durability: Polyester
Ventilation: Four-side mesh panels
Portability and Storage: Collapsible, padded straps and handles
Ease of Cleaning: Machine washable
Chosen by 1155 this week
Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 4-Doors, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Cat, Dog, and Small Animals, Quick Setup, Small 26" x 18" x 18", Grey
Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 4-Doors, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Cat, Dog, and Small Animals, Quick Setup, Small 26" x 18" x 18", Grey
Size and Dimensions: 26 x 18 x 18 inches
Material and Durability: Fabric; water-resistant base; less durable
Ventilation: Four doors: top, front, side
Portability and Storage: Folds quickly; padded strap and handle
Ease of Cleaning: Removable pad; fabric needs extra effort
Entry and Exit Points: Multiple entries with four doors
Petmate Dog Crates for Small Dogs & Cat Carriers, Two-Door Plastic Pet Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Made in USA, 24" For Pets Up To 15 lb, Pearl Tan
Petmate Dog Crates for Small Dogs & Cat Carriers, Two-Door Plastic Pet Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Made in USA, 24" For Pets Up To 15 lb, Pearl Tan
Size and Dimensions: 24"L x 16.8"W x 14.5"H
Weight Capacity: 15 Pounds
Material and Durability: Plastic
Ventilation: many holes for air and visibility
Portability and Storage: 4.95 lbs, foldable handle, less flexible
Ease of Cleaning: Hand wash, easy to clean
Entry and Exit Points: two doors: front and top loading
Cat Carrying Case Pet Dog Carrier Soft-Sided Cat Bag Airline Approved, Pet Travel Carrier Up to 15 Lbs, Collapsible Cats Carrier Dog Carrier for Medium Small Cats Dogs(17x11x11 Green)
Cat Carrying Case Pet Dog Carrier Soft-Sided Cat Bag Airline Approved, Pet Travel Carrier Up to 15 Lbs, Collapsible Cats Carrier Dog Carrier for Medium Small Cats Dogs(17x11x11 Green)
Size and Dimensions: 17 x 11 x 11 inches
Weight Capacity: up to 15 pounds
Material and Durability: polyester with steel frame
Ventilation: nylon mesh sides
Portability and Storage: shoulder strap, handles; folds flat
Ease of Cleaning: removable washable wool bed
Entry and Exit Points: two sturdy zippers top and side
GAPZER Pet Carrier for Large and Medium Cats, Soft-Sided Pet Carrier for Big Medium Cats and Puppy, Dog Carriers Cat Carriers Pet Privacy Protection Travel Carriers
GAPZER Pet Carrier for Large and Medium Cats, Soft-Sided Pet Carrier for Big Medium Cats and Puppy, Dog Carriers Cat Carriers Pet Privacy Protection Travel Carriers
Size and Dimensions: 18.1"L x 11.8"W x 11.8"H
Weight Capacity: 20 lbs
Material and Durability: Fabric-oxford material
Ventilation: Breathable mesh design
Portability and Storage: Collapsible, 2.2 pounds
Ease of Cleaning: Washable faux lambskin liner
Entry and Exit Points: Top and side entry points
Related Products
Up to 28% off
Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed — Multi-use Travel Pet Bed, Crash-Tested Car Seat, & Carrier for Dogs and Cats up to 15 Pounds (Blossom Pink)
Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed — Multi-use Travel Pet Bed, Crash-Tested Car Seat, & Carrier for Dogs and Cats up to 15 Pounds (Blossom Pink)
Size and Dimensions: 17 x 17 x 13.5 inches
Weight Capacity: up to 15 pounds
Material and Durability: luggage-grade nylon outside, soft polyester inside
Ventilation: chew-resistant mesh panels on three sides
Portability and Storage: padded strap, handle; 4.5 pounds
Ease of Cleaning: washable bedding; water-resistant liner
Entry and Exit Points: removable mesh dome
Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier For Small / Medium Cats Dogs Puppies (Up To 15lbs), TSA Airline Approved Small Dog Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Waterproof Travel Puppy Carrier - Grey
Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier For Small / Medium Cats Dogs Puppies (Up To 15lbs), TSA Airline Approved Small Dog Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Waterproof Travel Puppy Carrier - Grey
Size and Dimensions: 17 x 11 x 11 inches
Weight Capacity: 15 lbs
Material and Durability: Polyester
Ventilation: Four-side mesh design
Portability and Storage: Lightweight, adjustable strap, padded handles
Ease of Cleaning: Machine washable
Entry and Exit Points: Single opening
Amazon Basics 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Cat Pet Travel Carrier, 19.0" L x 12.6" W x 10.0" H, Gray & Blue
Amazon Basics 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Cat Pet Travel Carrier, 19.0" L x 12.6" W x 10.0" H, Gray & Blue
Size and Dimensions: 19 x 12.6 x 10 inches
Weight Capacity: under 11 pounds
Material and Durability: plastic and steel wire
Ventilation: multiple openings on sides, top, back
Portability and Storage: not lightweight or compressible
Ease of Cleaning: easy due to plastic material
Entry and Exit Points: dual doors front and top
#10
Recommended lists
Top rated
Soft Cargo Carriers
How do we rank products for you?
Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.
Buying Guide for the Best Soft Cat Carriers
Choosing the right soft cat carrier is essential for ensuring your feline friend's comfort and safety during travel. Soft cat carriers are typically made from fabric and are designed to be lightweight and easy to carry. When selecting a soft cat carrier, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure it meets your needs and your cat's needs. Here are the key specs to look out for and how to navigate them.Size and DimensionsSize and dimensions refer to the overall measurements of the carrier. This spec is important because it determines whether your cat will have enough space to move around comfortably. To navigate this, measure your cat's length and height, and choose a carrier that is slightly larger than your cat's measurements. If you have a kitten, consider their potential growth. The right size ensures your cat can sit, stand, and turn around without feeling cramped.
Weight CapacityWeight capacity indicates the maximum weight the carrier can safely hold. This is crucial for ensuring the carrier can support your cat's weight without breaking or causing discomfort. To navigate this, check your cat's weight and choose a carrier with a weight capacity that exceeds your cat's weight by a few pounds. This ensures the carrier is sturdy enough and provides a margin of safety.
Material and DurabilityMaterial and durability refer to the fabric and construction quality of the carrier. This spec is important because it affects the carrier's longevity and your cat's comfort. Look for carriers made from durable, tear-resistant materials like nylon or polyester. Ensure the seams are well-stitched and the zippers are strong. If your cat tends to scratch or chew, opt for a carrier with reinforced panels.
VentilationVentilation refers to the airflow within the carrier, typically provided by mesh panels or windows. Good ventilation is crucial for your cat's comfort and safety, preventing overheating and ensuring they have fresh air. To navigate this, look for carriers with multiple mesh panels or windows. Ensure the mesh is strong enough to withstand scratching. The right amount of ventilation keeps your cat cool and comfortable during travel.
Portability and StoragePortability and storage refer to how easy the carrier is to carry and store when not in use. This spec is important for your convenience. Look for carriers with padded handles, adjustable shoulder straps, and lightweight construction for easy carrying. Some carriers can be folded flat for storage, which is useful if you have limited space. Choose a carrier that balances ease of transport with your comfort.
Ease of CleaningEase of cleaning refers to how simple it is to keep the carrier clean. This is important for maintaining hygiene and your cat's health. Look for carriers with removable and washable liners or pads. Some carriers have water-resistant or wipeable surfaces, making them easier to clean. Choose a carrier that fits your cleaning preferences and ensures a clean environment for your cat.
Entry and Exit PointsEntry and exit points refer to the openings through which your cat can enter and exit the carrier. This spec is important for ease of use and reducing stress for your cat. Look for carriers with multiple entry points, such as top and side openings. This allows you to choose the most comfortable way to place your cat inside. The right entry and exit points make it easier to load and unload your cat, especially if they are anxious or resistant.