“When it comes to backpack carriers, you’ll also need to pay special attention to the entry points (top entry is a requirement), comfort (for both you and your cat), and some additional features like a hitch or tether to attach your cat’s leash,” Dr. Georgina Ushi-Phillips, a practicing veterinarian and veterinary writer for, who emphasized specific features that deserve extra attention. Plus, it’s a lot easier for a human to carry the weight of a cat and carrier on their shoulders than by hand.

But a backpack cat carrier can provide a different experience, offering a well-ventilated, protected space and a heightened vantage. Many cats also associate carriers with scary trips to the veterinarian. Traveling in a confined space is stressful for cats, who like having control of their routine and environment.