It happened on one sunlight day. The smell of blossoms moved the air as birds sang their sweet melody. Everything was peaceful and beautiful—the perfect day for a stroll. You heard it as you were about to close the door behind you.
A meow sad enough to break your heart. You don’t want to leave your sweet kitty behind, but what choice do you have? Unlike dogs, cats don’t tend to cooperate when you walk them.
What if we told you there was a solution to this stalemate? Cat backpacks are a safe and reliable way to explore the world with your feline companion. With them, you will be inseparable no matter where you go.
Summary
We tested a number of products and found that the best cat backpack for carrying and hiking was the Henkelion which offers a great view for your furry friend while having good ventilation. For a small cat, the Bestnova is the best cat backpack bubble design.
Best cat backpacks for carrying and hiking
Here are the category winners:
- Best overall cat backpack: Henkelion
- Best backpack for a small cat: Bestnova
- Best travel backpacks for a fat cat: Morpilot
- Best front-facing cat carrier: Pawaboo
Let’s dive deeper into the best cat backpacks.
Table of Contents
- Best cat backpacks for carrying and hiking
- Best clear, bubble “space” with a window
- For a fat cat
- Front-facing
- Airline-approved
Best clear, bubble “space” with a window
1. Henkelion
This charming see-through capsule carrier will all but spoil your feline. The transparent window covers an entire side, allowing your pet to see everything perfectly. This model comes in six different colors and costs only $40. It is suitable for hiking as well.
It’s no wonder it’s made it on the list as one of the best cat backpacks.
Pros
- We loved the massive viewing window for your furry friend.
Cons
- It’s not foldable.
2. Lollimeow
This model features a cute little bubble window that will make your kitty look like an astronaut. You can take the window off, allowing your cat to peek out. This model is airline approved as well and costs $60.
3. Huo Zao
With its stunning Poké ball design, this Huo Zao capsule backpack couldn’t be more fashionable. It sports a bubble window that you can remove as you need. The back is expandable so that you can use it as a cat dome. It can be yours for only $47.99. Gotta catch ‘em all!
Pros
- The expandable design makes it versatile.
Cons
- It’s pretty small.
4. Yafeco
This Yafeco space capsule features plastic windows on both sides. Thus, your cat can take in even more breathtaking sceneries. The model comes with adjustable shoulder and hand straps, allowing for more carrying options. The polymeric material is waterproof, lightweight, and collapsible. And it all costs only $29.99.
Pros
- The design is very slick.
Cons
- It’s not technically a backpack.
5. Bestnova
Our last capsule-style model on the list, this Bestnova backpack, comes with a bubble window and a see-through mesh screen. You can swap freely between the two as you need. The 9 holes guarantee proper ventilation and breathability. You can also take this 35.99-dollar model on a plane trip since it is airline approved.
Pros
- The large viewing window is great.
Cons
- It’s pretty small.
For a fat cat
The following models are suitable for large cats.
6. Morpilot
If it’s a large-capacity backpack you seek, then you can’t go wrong with Morpilot. This spacious model is designed for pets up to 15 pounds and has four mesh screens. You can also choose to leave the top open for your curious feline. Be sure to make use of the in-built safety strap to avoid accidents. For such a huge backpack, $38.99 is a small price to pay.
Pros
- The foldable design is great.
- We loved the removable mat that’s included.
Cons
- The bag would be nicer to wear if it was longer.
7. Halinfer
What if you could have a backpack and a cat dome in one? With Halinfer, you can. This amazing model comes not with one but two extensions. Even large felines will fit right in – they can hold up to 20 pounds. It costs $36.99.
Pros
- It was approved by the cat we tried it with.
Cons
- We’re not convinced it provides enough ventilation.
8. The Fat Cat
This enormous space bubble backpack can hold up to 25 pounds! Whether you own an extra heavy cat or you want to bring two with you, this model won’t disappoint. The interior was made to resist scratching, making it especially safe. Its only downside might be the price – $124.99.
Pros
- It may provide the highest support we could find at 25 lbs.
Cons
- We’re not thrilled with the design.
9. Petsfit
With a weight limit of 22 pounds, this stylish Petsfit backpack features will hold its shape despite its size. Thanks to the four mesh screens, your kitty will have all the ventilation he needs. The durable material makes it great not only for cats but also for dogs and bunnies. The model comes in five colors and costs $66.99.
Pros
- Versatile product
Cons
- The zippers feel cheap.
10. IREENUO
This rucksack features an expandable back so that you can use it as a dome. It can hold up to 17 pounds, and you can fold it for easy storage. Your kitty can enter it through two doors, whichever is more comfortable. You can keep the topside mesh open so that he can stick out his head. The price is $49.99.
Pros
- The removable mat inside is a great benefit.
- The ability to expand it makes it very versatile.
Cons
- It had an odd smell when it arrived, although most of it disappeared after airing it out.
Front-facing
11. Pawaboo
The Pawaboo front carrier is an excellent choice. Thanks to its many adjustable straps, you won’t feel sore. The flexible yet breathable material will also make your pet fall in love with it. This 26.99-dollar model is ideal not only for kitties but also for small dogs.
Pros
- Simple design
Cons
- Our test cat wasn’t a fan of front carrying.
- It might be too large for some cats.
12. Generic
Thanks to its Velcro zipper, this front-facing pet carrier couldn’t be more secure. Though the material is elastic and airy, this also means it can hold pets only up to 5.5 pounds. Still, smaller felines will surely fall in love with it. The price is $59.99.
Pros
- It felt adequately sized for most cats.
Cons
- The design may be too much for some.
It’s definitely one of the best cat backpacks.
13. Coppthinktu
You can wear this fashionable Coppthinktu carrier both on the front and back. The adjustable neckline allows your pet to look around freely. And thanks to the two zippers on each side, your feline’s safety is assured. You can buy it for $33.99.
Pros
- The colors are very patriotic.
Cons
- The straps are pretty narrow.
Airline-approved
14. Tirrinia
The Tirrinia airline-approved backpack includes a removable soft pad that will give your pet all the comfort he needs. It features a see-through mesh screen that you can roll up. The top one can also be opened. It has side pockets for water bottles and treats, the perfect load-out for a voyage with your furry friend. It’s affordable too – just $36.98.
Pros
- It’s one of the best backpacks for small cats.
Cons
- We struggled a bit with the zipper.
Why do I need a cat backpack?
As their name implies, cat backpacks are designed to transport your feline companions. Unlike common pet carriers, you wear them on your back. Say goodbye to constant swapping from one hand to another. Backpacks distribute the weight evenly on your back, so you will find them more comfortable.
It might strike you as another one of those ideas that seem simple. You don’t know why you haven’t thought about it until now. Why couldn’t you use a regular backpack? Isn’t this just a silly invention meant to milk your money? Don’t put your kitty into a common school bag just yet.
Cat backpacks are equipped with holes or mesh panels. It allows your kitty to breathe and provides the necessary ventilation. Your kitty needs to breathe, after all. And why would you bring your pet along if they can’t see a thing? Cat backpacks feature a window. Let your feline marvel at the world around!
Most models also come with pockets to carry some items with you. A mat might also be included to make your cat as comfortable as possible.
