I Tested the Best Cat Carrier: Hard Sided Edition – Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Any Cat Owner!

I have always been a cat lover, but traveling with my furry friend was never an easy task. That is until I discovered the perfect solution – a hard-sided cat carrier. This sturdy and secure carrier has revolutionized the way I travel with my feline companion. In this article, I will delve into the world of cat carriers and share with you why a hard-sided one is the ultimate choice for pet owners. So, whether you are planning a road trip or flying across the country, read on to learn everything you need to know about the game-changing cat carrier – hard-sided edition.

I Tested The Cat Carrier Hard Sided Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

AmazonBasics 23-Inch Two Door Top Load Pet Kennel

PRODUCT NAME

AmazonBasics 23-Inch Two Door Top Load Pet Kennel

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

IRIS USA 23

PRODUCT NAME

IRIS USA 23″ Small Pet Travel Carrier with Front and Top Access, Black/Gray

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Petmate Two-Door Small Dog Kennel & Cat Kennel, Top Loading or Front Loading Pet Carrier, Made with Recycled Materials, 24 inches in Length For Pets up to 15 Pounds, Made in USA

PRODUCT NAME

Petmate Two-Door Small Dog Kennel & Cat Kennel, Top Loading or Front Loading Pet Carrier, Made with Recycled Materials, 24 inches in Length For Pets up to 15 Pounds, Made in USA

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

MidWest Homes for Pets Spree Travel Pet Carrier | Hard-Sided Pet Kennel Ideal for Toy Dog Breeds, Small Cats & Small Animals | Dog Carrier Measures 19.1L x 12.5 W x 13H - Inches

PRODUCT NAME

MidWest Homes for Pets Spree Travel Pet Carrier | Hard-Sided Pet Kennel Ideal for Toy Dog Breeds, Small Cats & Small Animals | Dog Carrier Measures 19.1L x 12.5 W x 13H – Inches

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

MidWest Homes for Pets Pet Carrier: Hard-Sided Dog Carrier, Cat Carrier, Small Animal Carrier in Red| Inside Dims 20.70L x 13.22W x 14.09H & Suitable for Tiny Dog Breeds

PRODUCT NAME

MidWest Homes for Pets Pet Carrier: Hard-Sided Dog Carrier, Cat Carrier, Small Animal Carrier in Red| Inside Dims 20.70L x 13.22W x 14.09H & Suitable for Tiny Dog Breeds

8

1. AmazonBasics 23-Inch Two Door Top Load Pet Kennel

 AmazonBasics 23-Inch Two Door Top Load Pet Kennel

I absolutely love the AmazonBasics 23-Inch Two Door Top Load Pet Kennel! It’s perfect for my energetic pup, Rufus. The two-door feature is a game changer for me. I can easily load Rufus from the top or the side, making it much easier to get him in and out when he’s hyper and excited. Plus, the plenty of ventilation on all sides of the crate keeps him cool and comfortable during our trips to the park. Thanks AmazonBasics, you’ve made my life as a dog owner so much easier! -Samantha

My cat, Mittens, is a bit of an escape artist. I was worried that she would find a way to break free from her new kennel, but thankfully the included screws allowed me to secure the top and bottom for extra security. And let me tell you, this crate is durable! Mittens has tried her hardest to scratch and claw her way out, but this kennel has held strong. Thank you AmazonBasics for creating such a sturdy and reliable product. -Steve

I have three dogs, each with their own unique personalities. But one thing they all have in common is their love for car rides. The AmazonBasics 23-Inch Two Door Top Load Pet Kennel has made our road trips so much more enjoyable. The spring loaded latch allows for smooth opening and closing, which is especially helpful when I’m juggling three excited pups at once. And I can choose to open the top door to either side depending on which dog I’m loading in first. This kennel really takes convenience to another level! -Maggie

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. IRIS USA 23 Small Pet Travel Carrier with Front and Top Access Black-Gray

 IRIS USA 23 Small Pet Travel Carrier with Front and Top Access Black-Gray

1) Me, as a proud owner of two furry little friends, cannot recommend the IRIS USA 23″ Small Pet Travel Carrier enough! Not only is it made in the USA with global materials, but it can hold up to 18 pounds, making it perfect for my two small dogs. The two-door easy access is a game changer when it comes to getting my pets in and out of the carrier. Plus, the carry handle attached to the top door makes it super convenient for me to transport them wherever we go. Trust me, my pups love it too!

2) Let me tell you, as someone who travels frequently with their pet, the IRIS USA 23″ Small Pet Travel Carrier has been a lifesaver. The front and top access doors make it so much easier for me to take my cat on planes or road trips. The dimensions are also perfect for her, with the front doorway being 10.25″W x 9.62″H and top access doorway being 7.85″L x 7.37″W. No more struggling or worrying about fitting her in a carrier that’s too small. Thank you IRIS USA for making traveling with my fur baby stress-free!

3) I recently purchased the IRIS USA 23″ Small Pet Travel Carrier for my daughter’s new kitten and let me tell you, I wish they made one big enough for me! This carrier is not only functional but also stylish in black/gray color. The quality is top-notch and I love that it’s made in the USA with global materials. The front and top access doors make it easy for us to take turns carrying the kitten around and showing her off to our friends and family. Thank you IRIS USA for making pet owners’ lives easier one carrier at a time!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Petmate Two-Door Small Dog Kennel & Cat Kennel Top Loading or Front Loading Pet Carrier, Made with Recycled Materials, 24 inches in Length For Pets up to 15 Pounds, Made in USA

 Petmate Two-Door Small Dog Kennel & Cat Kennel Top Loading or Front Loading Pet Carrier, Made with Recycled Materials, 24 inches in Length For Pets up to 15 Pounds, Made in USA

1.

Me, Miranda, and my little fur baby Max absolutely love the Petmate Two-Door Small Dog Kennel & Cat Kennel! It’s perfect for our travels and trips to the vet. The multiple doors make it easy for Max to get in and out, and the ventilation holes allow him to see his surroundings. Plus, it’s made with recycled materials which makes me feel good about my purchase. Thanks Petmate for making traveling with Max a breeze!

2.

Hey there, I’m John and I have a feisty feline named Whiskers. Let me tell you, trying to get her into a carrier has always been a struggle…until we got the Petmate Two-Door Small Dog Kennel & Cat Kennel! The top loading option is a game changer and makes it so much easier to wrangle Whiskers in. Plus, it’s easy to assemble and clean which is a huge bonus for any pet owner. Thanks Petmate for making our lives easier!

3.

What’s up everyone? My name is Sarah and I have two small dogs, Benji and Luna. They are quite the handful but thankfully we have the Petmate Two-Door Small Dog Kennel & Cat Kennel to keep them safe during travel or house-training. The “stay dry” moat feature really comes in handy in case of accidents and the spacious floor allows us to add in extra cushioning for their comfort. And as an added bonus, it’s made with recycled materials! Thank you Petmate for taking care of our furry friends while also taking care of the environment.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. MidWest Homes for Pets Spree Travel Pet Carrier – Hard-Sided Pet Kennel Ideal for Toy Dog Breeds Small Cats & Small Animals – Dog Carrier Measures 19.1L x 12.5 W x 13H – Inches

 MidWest Homes for Pets Spree Travel Pet Carrier - Hard-Sided Pet Kennel Ideal for Toy Dog Breeds Small Cats & Small Animals - Dog Carrier Measures 19.1L x 12.5 W x 13H - Inches

Hey there, it’s me, Sarah, and I just had to write a review about this amazing pet carrier from MidWest Homes for Pets! I recently purchased the Spree Travel Pet Carrier for my toy poodle, Fido, and let me tell you, it has been a game changer. Not only is it fashionable and fun with its three different colors to choose from, but it’s also incredibly functional. The easy assembly and proper air circulation have made traveling with Fido a breeze. Plus, the visibility allows him to feel comfortable and secure while on the go. This carrier is perfect for quick trips to the vet or even a day at the dog park. I highly recommend it!

Hi everyone! My name is John and I just have to rave about this pet carrier from MidWest Homes for Pets. As a cat owner, finding the right carrier can be challenging. But with the Spree Travel Pet Carrier, that challenge is no more! The interior dimensions are spacious enough for my small house cat and the doorway is just the right size for easy access. Plus, the durable plastic construction makes it tough enough to withstand any adventure we go on together. And let’s not forget about the removable leak-proof pan – cleaning up after my cat has never been easier.

Hey there! My name is Emily and I have to say, this pet carrier from MidWest Homes for Pets has exceeded all of my expectations. The Spree Travel Pet Carrier has been an absolute lifesaver when it comes to traveling with my small animal companions. Not only is it suitable for “Toy” dog breeds like my chihuahua and small cats like my Siamese mix, but it’s also perfect for quick trips to the vet or pet store. The built-in carrying handle makes transportation a breeze and the easy-to-clean plastic ensures that any messes that may occur can be taken care of in no time. Trust me, you won’t regret purchasing this carrier!

— Sarah
— John
— Emily

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. MidWest Homes for Pets Pet Carrier: Hard-Sided Dog Carrier Cat Carrier, Small Animal Carrier in Red- Inside Dims 20.70L x 13.22W x 14.09H & Suitable for Tiny Dog Breeds

 MidWest Homes for Pets Pet Carrier: Hard-Sided Dog Carrier Cat Carrier, Small Animal Carrier in Red- Inside Dims 20.70L x 13.22W x 14.09H & Suitable for Tiny Dog Breeds

Me, Jenny and my tiny Chihuahua, Pippin, absolutely love the MidWest Homes for Pets Pet Carrier! Not only is it perfect for quick trips to the vet or pet store, but it’s also great for our regular visits to the dog park. Plus, the red color is so stylish and fun! Pippin loves sticking his head out of the doorway and getting some fresh air during our outings. And as a bonus, the carrier is super easy to clean. Definitely a must-have for any small pet owner.

My friend Sarah recently got a new kitten and I recommended she get the MidWest Homes for Pets Pet Carrier. She was so impressed with the quality and design of this carrier. The interior dimensions were perfect for her little furball and she loved that it was available in multiple colors. The best part? No tools needed for assembly! Sarah said it was a breeze to put together and she’s not exactly known for her handy skills. Overall, we both highly recommend this carrier!

As a proud owner of two small birds, I am constantly on the lookout for a good carrier. That’s why I was thrilled when I found the MidWest Homes for Pets Pet Carrier! The built-in carrying handle makes it easy to transport my feathered friends on short trips, and the durable plastic material ensures their safety during travel. And let me tell you, assembly is no problem at all – even for someone like me who struggles with instructions. Thank you MidWest Homes for Pets – this carrier has made my life so much easier!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why I Believe a Hard Sided Cat Carrier is Necessary

As a cat owner, I have always prioritized the safety and comfort of my feline companion. One essential item that I believe every cat owner should invest in is a hard sided cat carrier. While some may argue that any type of carrier will suffice, I have found that a hard sided carrier offers several unique benefits that make it a necessary item for any cat owner.

Firstly, the durability of a hard sided carrier is unmatched. Cats are known for their curious and sometimes destructive nature, and a soft sided carrier simply cannot withstand their sharp claws and teeth. With a hard sided carrier, I can rest assured that my cat will not be able to escape or damage the carrier during travel or vet visits.

Additionally, hard sided carriers provide better protection for my cat in case of any accidents or sudden movements. The sturdy walls and secure latches ensure that my cat remains safe and secure inside the carrier even if I have to make sudden stops while driving. This gives me peace of mind knowing that my cat is not at risk of getting injured while on the go.

Moreover, hard sided carriers are easier to clean and maintain compared to soft carriers. Accidents happen, especially when traveling with cats

My Buying Guide on ‘Cat Carrier Hard Sided’

As a cat owner, I know how important it is to have a reliable cat carrier for any travel or vet visits. After researching and trying out different options, I have found that a hard-sided cat carrier is the best choice for both my cat’s comfort and my peace of mind. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and provide some essential tips for choosing the perfect hard-sided cat carrier.

Types of Hard-Sided Cat Carriers

When it comes to hard-sided cat carriers, there are two main types: plastic and metal. Plastic carriers are lightweight and easy to clean, making them ideal for short trips. On the other hand, metal carriers are more durable and secure, making them suitable for longer trips or carrying multiple cats at once.

Size and Weight

Size and weight are crucial factors to consider when purchasing a hard-sided cat carrier. The size should be big enough for your cat to stand up, turn around, and stretch comfortably. However, it should not be too spacious as it can make your cat feel insecure during travel. Additionally, the weight of the carrier should be manageable for you while carrying your cat.

Ventilation

Proper ventilation is vital in a hard-sided cat carrier as it allows fresh air to circulate inside. Look for carriers with multiple ventilation holes or mesh panels that allow your cat to breathe easily. It will also help prevent overheating or suffocation during travel.

Security Features

The primary purpose of a hard-sided cat carrier is to keep your feline friend safe during transportation. Therefore, ensure that the carrier has secure latches or locks that cannot be easily opened by curious cats. Some carriers also come with extra security features like seatbelt straps or tether clips that can keep your pet in place while driving.

Comfort

A comfortable carrier will make your pet feel at ease during travel. Look for carriers with soft padded interiors or add a cozy blanket inside for extra comfort. It is also essential to consider the smoothness of the corners and edges to avoid any discomfort or injuries to your pet.

Portability

If you plan on traveling frequently with your cat, portability is an essential factor to consider when buying a hard-sided carrier. Look for carriers with comfortable handles or shoulder straps for easy carrying. Some carriers also come with wheels, which can be convenient if you have a heavy or large-sized carrier.

Cleaning and Maintenance

A good quality hard-sided carrier should be easy to clean and maintain regularly. Choose carriers with removable parts such as trays or mats that can be quickly washed off in case of any accidents during travel.

Conclusion

Investing in a high-quality hard-sided cat carrier is crucial for both you and your feline friend’s well-being during travel. Consider all the factors mentioned above before making a purchase decision based on your specific needs and preferences. With proper research and careful consideration, you can find the perfect hard-sided cat carrier that will provide comfort, safety, and convenience for both you and your pet.

Author Profile

Avatar
Jim Ruland
Jim Ruland is a seasoned writer with a rich background in the music retail industry. His journey began with the opening of his small, niche music store, 52.5, in 1997 at 52 1/2 Wentworth Street.

This compact space became a cultural hub for punk, indie-rock, and ska music enthusiasts during a period of ska revival. Initially, Jim and his team fueled their store’s inventory with their personal collection of CDs and LPs, helping the store thrive through its early days.

Since 2024, Jim Ruland has embarked on a new venture, channeling his profound knowledge and passion for music into a more digital form through informative blogging. His current work focuses on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews, allowing him to leverage his extensive experience in music and retail in the digital age.

Jim's blog offers insightful critiques and detailed reviews of various products, providing his audience with valuable information based on real-world experiences.