Unlike dogs, cats tend to be homebodies. For example, most cat owners don’t take their feline friends hiking, and most cats are probably happy to stay home. Even if your cats rarely leave the house, though, you still need to invest in quality carriers for them. At the very least, you’ll need to take them to the veterinarian once a year for a wellness exam, and traveling with a loose cat in the car can be dangerous. Protect both your own safety and that of your furry companions by considering the following when picking out carriers. 

3 Qualities to Look for in a Cat Carrier

1. Spaciousness 

To ensure total comfort, the carrier should be large enough that the cat can sit, stand, lie down, and turn around without trouble. As a general rule of thumb, carriers should be one and a half times the size of the cat. For example, if your cat is 12 inches from the tip of his nose to the root of his tail, the carrier should be roughly 18 inches long. 

2. Durability 

Most cats get at least a little anxious when traveling, so opt for a plastic carrier. If your cat has a relatively calm demeanor and never scratches or thrashes around, a nylon carrier could work; however, you may not be able to use it with any other cats. With a hard plastic carrier, though, you can transport even the most anxious animals. Look for one that has a sturdy handle—one that's strong enough to support your cat’s weight—and a wide door, so it’s easy to clean. 

3. Ventilation 

The best veterinarian-approved carriers have openings on at least three sides. This ensures sufficient ventilation, so the occupant has plenty of fresh air. If seeing passersby makes your cat anxious, you can always cover the carrier with a towel while en route. 

After purchasing the right carriers for your cats, take them to All Feline Hospital for all their pet care needs. Located in Lincoln, NE, this full-service animal hospital is proud to care for cats throughout Lancaster County. At their state-of-the-art facility, they can perform a broad range of diagnostic tests and procedures. Their veterinarians ultimately prioritize preventative care, though, so their patients can thrive for years to come. To make a veterinarian appointment for your cat, call (402) 467-2711 or complete the form on their website. In the meantime, follow them on Facebook for more cat care tips.