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For safely taking cats on outdoor adventures, I recommend the Petsfit Carriers Backpack for Cat as the overall best cat backpack due to its security, build quality, and comfort for you and your feline.
- Stylish, maintains shape on your back
- Durable, tough, lightweight
- Adjustable pop-up window
- Great ventilation and visibility
- High hardware quality: mesh, zippers, straps
- Internal leash
Cat backpacks are the perfect bridge between totally indoor cats and adventure cats, allowing you to take your cat outside securely and comfortably. After researching the best cat backpacks to enrich my Maine Coon’s life, the Petsfit Carriers backpack is our top choice.
If you’ve seen cute cat backpacks on social media but doubt how practical they are, keep reading. Let’s explore the best cat backpacks that prioritize your cat’s well-being over looking cute.
These are the products we review in this article:
PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack
- Keeps shape while worn
- Fits pets up to 18 pounds.
- Great pocket space
- Safety buckles
- Tether to inside
PetAmi Premium Pet Carrier Backpack
- Affordable
- Stylish and simple
- Large side pockets
- Good ventilation
- Very spacious
- Quality construction
- Internal tether
- Bubble or mesh option
- Very well ventilated
- Top and front entrances
Lollimeow Pet Carrier Backpack
- Affordable
- Expandable tent for stretching out
- Provides good views for cats
- Internal leash
Texsens Innovative Traveler Bubble Backpack
- Affordable and spacious
- Super breathable, lightweight
- Multiple entrances
- Internal tether
- Overall Best Cat Backpack
- Runner-Up Cat Backpack Carrier
- Best Budget Cat Backpack
- Best Cat Pack Pack for Large Cats
- Best Bubble Cat Backpack
- Best Cat Backpack for Hiking
- Looking For The Best Cat Backpack For Two Cats?
- What About The Voyager Cat Backpack?
- What’s the Best Cat Pod Backpack?
- Want a Backpack for Your Cat to Wear?
- Why Use a Cat Backpack?
- The Adventure Cat Lifestyle
- How to Choose the Best Cat Backpack
- Frequently Asked Questions
Overall Best Cat Backpack
- Stylish, maintains shape on your back
- Durable, tough, lightweight
- Adjustable pop-up window
- Great ventilation and visibility
- High hardware quality: mesh, zippers, straps
- Internal leash
Well-built, security, and attention to detail describe the Petsfit Carrier Backpack, making it our overall best cat backpack.
First, I love that the body has such a firm design without feeling stiff. Its rigidity is key because it maintains its shape on your back with your cat inside. In other backpacks, the top smashes down, and presses on a cat’s head. Not fun!
My favorite detail is the little mesh pop-out window at the top of the backpack – it really makes your cat feel like they’re perched in front of a window with place for their little paws. Plus it’s extra ventilation.
Speaking of all-important ventilation, the mesh sides and top do a fantastic job of providing ventilation and views. They also open up completely as extra entrances.
This pack is constructed from an eco-friendly EVA material and non-toxic mesh, and it feels like a high quality luggage. It’s soft, rubber-like and gives a little bit. Zipper hardware, buckles, and mesh are great quality.
There’s no flex even with larger cats, as it has a weight limit of 15 pounds.
Overall, this backpack providing a protected, comfortable space for your cat (it even comes with a leash secured to the backpack, so you can open up that top mesh window).
And for owners, this backpack is also very comfortable on longer walks. If you’re worried about awkward carrying, the straps at the chest and waist really help to give you balance.
What We Liked:
- Stylish, maintains shape on your back
- Durable, tough, lightweight
- Adjustable pop-up window
- Great ventilation and visibility
- High hardware quality: mesh, zippers, straps
- Internal leash
What We Didn’t Like:
- May not fit extra large cats
Runner-Up Cat Backpack Carrier
- Keeps shape while worn
- Fits pets up to 18 pounds.
- Great pocket space
- Safety buckles
- Tether to inside
The Pet Ami Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack is a fitting runner up, because it checks every box of things you’d need in the best cat backpacks.
In fact, the Petsfit model is preferable for me only because of its pop-up window feature and I dig its look more.
This model is a full system that is more than just a backpack. Generous side and rear pockets are great for fitting in food, water and treats for both human and cat.
They even throw in a collapsible water bowl that tucks right into the pocket. The little name badge on the front pocket is also a cute touch.
Like our overall winner, the backpack itself has a structure that keeps its shape when worn. It’s well ventilated with mesh on top and sides.
I’m also a fan of the way the four-sided access on this backpack makes it easy to enter. Once inside, your cat is comforted by a sherpa-lined, ultra-soft interior bed paired with plenty of headroom.
On the safety front, you can secure your cat to the inside of the backpack with a tether too and flip the top open. And there are buckles to prevent zippers from opening while in use.
On the human end, the high-grade polyester material is tough and lightweight. The back and straps are padded, and chest and waist buckles do a great job of adding extra support and balance.
The Pet Ami Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack is available in 7 colors and fits pets up to 18 pounds.
What We Liked:
- Keeps shape while worn
- Fits pets up to 18 pounds
- Great pocket space
- Safety buckles
- Tether to inside
What We Didn’t Like:
- A lot of different exit points for a cat to Houdini it out of
- Shape can feel a little bulky on your back
Best Budget Cat Backpack
- Affordable
- Stylish and simple
- Large side pockets
- Good ventilation
On a budget and have smaller cat? Then this PetAmi Premium Pet Carrier Backpack is for you!
This extra well-ventilated backpack, with breathable mesh on the sides, front, and top, does a lot of things right, like one of the best cat backpacks should.
It has an internal strap that secures kitty to the backpack, and a sherpa-lined interior bed for their comfort.
Made from polyester, this backpack is lightweight, breathable and easy to carry due to the chest and waist buckles. Deep side pockets will easily accommodate your water bottle and cat essentials.
The backpack also comes with a collapsible water dish that fits nicely into the pockets.
The design is so stylish and understated that most people who pass you will just think it’s an ordinary trail pack instead of a moving cat house!
One note: this backpack best for smaller cats since the weight limit is 8 pounds, and because the top of it collapses like a regular backpack while on your back. The low price does have its compromises.
This backpack comes in 8 colors.
What We Liked:
- Affordable
- Stylish and simple
- Large side pockets
- Good ventilation
What We Didn’t Like:
- Top of backpack is not rigid and collapses while being worn
- Weight limit is 8 pounds.
Best Cat Backpack for Large Cats
- Very spacious
- Quality construction
- Internal tether
- Bubble or mesh option
- Very well ventilated
- Top and front entrances
The Fat Cat Your Cat Backpack is definitely in category of its own in size and build quality. It’s even described as the best, most luxurious cat backpack on the market. And with it’s price, it’s easy to see why.
So this finally looks like the typical “bubble” backpack we all saw on social media. And what a pack it is – featuring a removable bubble window, and able to accommodate cats up to 25 pounds!
This large backpack can technically accommodate two cats at once. However, I’m skeptical about the comfort level in that. But, if your cat is big boy or girl, this is one of the few models where they can lie down and be comfortable in all positions.
This futuristic-looking bubble pack is made from high-quality, claw-resistant material that’s designed to take abuse from large paws and teeth.
The build quality on buckles and hardware is notable, and it feels very sturdy. The shoulder straps are padded and comfortable to wear for an extended amount of time.
In addition to breathable mesh sides, it also comes equipped with large air holes. You can even pop the top and let your cat hang out, knowing that they are secured via tether to the backpack.
The bubble attachment on the front is optional and you don’t have to use it, like in warmer weather. (Or if you don’t want the attention.) Remove it and use mesh instead.
What We Liked:
- Very spacious
- Quality construction
- Internal tether
- Bubble or mesh option
- Very well ventilated
- Top and front entrances
What We Didn’t Like:
- On the pricier side
Best Cat Bubble Backpack
- Affordable
- Expandable tent for stretching out
- Provides good views for cats
- Internal leash
If you want that true bubble backpack look, with a few extras for comfort, this is your best bet.
Yes, this cat bubble backpack is a real conversation piece. Designed to look like what can only be described as a futuristic cat pod, this carrier provides cats (and other people) with uninterrupted views. Not for shy cats!
This carrier does not have a small bubble window for that rocket ship look. No, the entire enclosure is a rather sterile, 100% clear transparent bubble.
Except for the bottom removable soft mat, there’s no mesh and padded plastic here…
At least not at first glance.
Actually, the rear of the backpack unzips and expands via airy mesh into a much larger (about 1.5 times the ground area) tent area. This allows for your cat, to totally spread out and lounge during rest periods instead of being cooped up in one position the whole time.
It’s such a cool feature and definitely contributes to why it’s the best cat bubble backpack.
One concern with the plastic bubble is airflow, but you don’t have to worry as this cat backpack is fitted with nine ventilation holes and two ventilation nets in total.
There is a security leash inside the pack to secure your cat’s collar too.
For cat owners, a chest buckle helps to keep this backpack secure and padded straps make it comfortable to wear.
This pack has a 12-pound weight limit for cats and is available in 4 colors.
What We Liked:
- Affordable
- Expandable tent for stretching out
- Provides good views for cats
- Internal leash
What We Didn’t Like:
- Not ideal for shy cats
- Small to medium size cats only
- No waist buckle
Best Cat Backpack for Hiking
- Affordable and spacious
- Super breathable, lightweight
- Multiple entrances
- Internal tether
Texsens Pet Backpack Carrier is simply the most ventilated and agile back pack, a wonderful choice of hiking and trekking, especially in hotter places.
The open-aired mesh design on this backpack really lets your cat feel like she’s enjoying the sights, sounds, smells of the great outdoors. It’s comfortable and spacious too, accommodating cats up to 18 pounds.
That mesh used on all sides makes it very light and easy to carry, and the panels can be unzipped to open from the top or sides for stress-free loading and unloading of Fluffy.
Design-wise it’s very non-threatening, so much that cats crawl inside and stay there for hours even in the house. They must like the cozy, removable mat on the bottom.
When heading out, attach their collar to the tether on the bottom, and open the front roll-down door. Your cat can now hang out of their little balcony for even more immersion outdoors.
The chest straps make it easy to keep the pack in place when your cat shifts. After the outing is done, you can collapse the whole thing for easy storage. Or not – since your cat might be snoozing in it.
What We Liked:
- Affordable and spacious
- Super breathable, lightweight
- Multiple entrances
- Internal tether
What We Didn’t Like:
- No waist buckle
- Might be too “open” for shy cats
- Some users complain bag digs into lower back
Looking For The Best Cat Backpack For Two Cats?
I really recommend the The Fat Cat Your Cat Backpack as the best cat backpack for two cats. It is large, well ventilated, and built with tough materials.
While my large Maine Coon would never agree to sharing this backpack with another cat, smaller cats who don’t mind being together on a road trip fit nicely in the The Fat Cat Your Cat Backpack!
What About The Voyager Cat Backpack?
The Voyager Cat Backpack is the original bubble cat backpack and a great premium backpack choice.
The Your Cat Backpack brand is quality and trusted, and their Voyager model offers full visibility, comfort for cat and human, and sturdy construction.
This backpack is good, it inspires copycats! (You might notice it looks like the Lollimeow Bubble Backpack.)
What’s the Best Cat Pod Backpack?
Texsens Traveler Cat Backpack
I did not have room for a separate cat pod backback in my list above, but the premium-feeling leather Texsens Traveler Cat Backpack is definitely one of the best cat pod backpacks.
Cat pod backpacks can be a stuffy and cramped, but this Texsens model allows for plenty of air and circulation while in use and opened up. Abundant airholes and mesh help while the backpack is moving.
At rest, the top-front area and sides of the backpack open up. As aways, you can attach a leash to the inside of the pack and keep your pet safe.
The backpack keeps it shape in use, so no smashing your pet while in motion! Humans will have no complaints too, due to its thick shoulder straps.
Want a Backpack for Your Cat to Wear?
Unfortunately, there isn’t any available backpacks for your cat to wear on the market to buy currently. Shucks, I know that’s disappointing.
The only way is to do it yourself. As displayed by this sewing blogger, who designed and created a custom tiny backpack for his cats!
As you can see, it’s totally adorable and maybe if you pester him enough, he would consider coming out with a product!
Why Use a Cat Backpack?
If you have an indoor cat, you’ve probably felt guilty sometimes as you watch them staring out the windows of your home.
Your house cat comes from a long line of wild, free-roaming felines, so to keep them cooped up inside is, while safe, denying them their best lives, you assume.
However, seeing data from the Animal Human Society showing that the outdoor lifestyle reduces a cat’s lifespan by as much as 10 years makes me know that you’re doing the right thing by making her an indoor cat!
Cat backpacks give indoor cats a taste of the exciting outdoor lifestyle in a controlled manner, while improving the bond between you and your cat. I also did not forget those of you in multi-cat families – there are also backpack carriers for two cats available.
(Alternatively, you can use a portable outdoor cat enclosure to let them play outside, and stay protected.)
On a more mundane level, cat backpacks are another type and shape of cat carrier, to use when going to the vet or groomers.
The Adventure Cat Lifestyle
In recent years, a movement has been #trending on social media: the adventure cat movement.
Basically, it’s about letting your house cat into the outdoors in a safe manner, by taking them walking on a leash and harness or a cat backpack.
If hashtags are any indication, this movement is huge, with more than 400,000 posts with #adventurecat on Instagram alone. It is a driving force why cat backpacks went so viral on social media.
But not all cats will accept a leash and harness. That’s why a backpack can be a great, less threatening alternative for your potential adventure cat.
Necessary Disclaimer
Like any group 400,000 strong, some of those cats probably don’t like adventures and prefer to be indoors only. Cat backpack adventures either are or aren’t for you and your cat. Not every cat loves the experience.
You can’t “force it” if your cat seems stressed, irritated or resistant when you try out a backpack. If your cat happens to find backpacks both cozy and exciting, go for it!
How to Choose the Best Cat Backpack
Before I dive into what to look for when trying out specific backpacks, I want to go over some basics for comfort and safety.
First, don’t make the mistake of focusing on a “cute” backpack. I’ve seen some people use really impractical backpacks that don’t offer support or security.
Second, do look for a supportive frame that’s balanced by plenty of window space and ventilation holes.
Comfort for Human
As far as materials, you need to find something that’s both durable and lightweight. A high-grade polyester with some plastic or leather reinforcements in key areas is a nice pick.
If your cat is a chewer, something as durable as Oxford may be a better option.
Don’t forget that you’ll be hauling the pack on your shoulders. Wide, padded straps are best. Also, backpacks with a chest strap or ones that you can wear in front of you are great options as well.
Comfort for Cat
For your cat, a big concern is head room. Assume that your cat will be shifting positions while inside the backpack.
Is there enough room for them to stand up and look around without feeling like their head and neck are being restricted?
A lot of bad quality backpacks have a top that smashes and slopes down when you wear it. Avoid these.
Ventilation is the next huge concern. Ensure there is enough ventilation throughout the cat backpack in the form of holes or mesh. It can get hot in there and your cat needs to breathe!
Safety and Security
It’s important to anticipate your cat’s habits when selecting a backpack that can be used safely. Look for features like locking zippers or internal leashes that attach to the backpack.
For instance, a backpack with an opening and a zipper positioned right where your cat will focus their weight or reach is never the best idea.
Of course, we never want a thrashing cat in a backpack in the first place, but if something does surprise your cat while inside, the backpack should hold up to it. Ensure the seams are well-constructed with no flaws.
Ease of Access
A cat backpack is another cat carrier, and a regular feature on those are multiple entrances and exits.
For those difficult cats who hate carriers and won’t get into the backpack from the side, and you absolutely need to transport them, you can pick them up and drop them into the backpack.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cat backpacks cruel?
Cat backpacks are not considered cruel. Generally, the best cat backpacks are considered a safe and comfortable way to bond with your cat outdoors.
Every pet owner must make the decision regarding whether or not to use a pet backpack based on what they know about their own pet.
A backpack is another form of cat carrier, and they are supposed to make the animals feel comfortable, secure and safe. Cats who have histories of being confined in tight spaces may have adverse reactions to carriers.
However, a cat with no traumatic history who is properly introduced to a carrier, is very likely to enjoy a cat backpack.
Are cat backpacks OK?
Cat backpacks are considered mainstream to use in today’s day and age.
When using a backpack, it is important to “check in” on your cat frequently to ensure that they are getting enough food, water, or breaks. Ultimately, your cat will let you know if it’s okay for them.
If you trained your cat to walk on a leash or harness, do let them out of the backpack to explore and enjoy the new environment. Like with the use of any carrier, backpacks are considered appropriate for shorter walks over longer treks.
Can you carry a cat in a backpack?
Cats should only be carried in special cat backpacks that are designed specially for animals.
The best cat backpacks offer the structure, weight capacity and ventilation necessary to keep your pet safe and comfortable. You should never try to carry a cat around in an ordinary backpack.
I’m Gary Hu, a proud cat dad to a 15 lb Maine Coon. Have taken care of outdoor and indoor cats for over 10 years, and learned tons on behavior, habits, health, and products. I help new Maine Coon (or any other cat) parents with common questions and issues based on real, practical experience.
