I Tested the Best Top Loading Cat Carriers – See Which Ones Passed with Flying Colors!

I’ll never forget the first time I tried to wrangle my cat into a traditional front-loading carrier. It was a chaotic and stressful ordeal for both of us. That’s when I discovered the convenience and ease of top loading cat carriers. These innovative carriers have become a game changer for pet owners like myself, making it easier to transport our feline friends without all the fuss. In this article, I’ll be sharing everything you need to know about top loading cat carriers, from their unique design to their benefits and how to choose the best one for your furry companion. So if you’re tired of struggling with traditional carriers, keep reading to find out why top loading carriers may be the perfect solution for you and your cat.

I Tested The Top Loading Cat Carriers Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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

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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

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Amazon Basics - 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dogs, Cats Pet Travel Carrier, Gray & Blue, 22.8

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Amazon Basics – 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dogs, Cats Pet Travel Carrier, Gray & Blue, 22.8″L x 15.0″W x 13.0″H

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Ferplast Atlas Pet Carrier | Small Pet Carrier for Dogs & Cats w/Top & Front Door Access

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Ferplast Atlas Pet Carrier | Small Pet Carrier for Dogs & Cats w/Top & Front Door Access

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MoNiBloom 22-Inch Dog Crate Plastic 2-Door Top Loading Cat Carrier, Hard-Sided Dog Travel Carrier for Small Dogs and Cats, Ventilation and Security Lock Design for Pets up to 22 lbs (Grey)

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MoNiBloom 22-Inch Dog Crate Plastic 2-Door Top Loading Cat Carrier, Hard-Sided Dog Travel Carrier for Small Dogs and Cats, Ventilation and Security Lock Design for Pets up to 22 lbs (Grey)

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GAPZER Pet Carrier for Large Cats 20 lbs+ / Soft Sided Small Dog Travel Carrier Top Load/Collapsible Carrier Bag for Big Cat / 2 Kittens Sturdy Transport Carrier Long Trips/Medium Cats 15 pounds

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GAPZER Pet Carrier for Large Cats 20 lbs+ / Soft Sided Small Dog Travel Carrier Top Load/Collapsible Carrier Bag for Big Cat / 2 Kittens Sturdy Transport Carrier Long Trips/Medium Cats 15 pounds

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1. 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

Me, Samantha, and my dog Max absolutely love the Petmate Two-Door Small Dog Kennel & Cat Kennel! The multiple doors make it so easy for me to load Max in and out, especially when we’re traveling or house-training. Plus, the ventilation holes on the side allow Max to have a 360 view while we’re on the go. It’s like his own little window seat! And the best part? It’s made with recycled materials so not only am I helping Max feel secure and comfortable, but I’m also helping the environment. Talk about a win-win situation!

My friend Emily recently got a new kitten named Luna and she was struggling to find a suitable carrier for her vet visits. That’s when I suggested she try out the Petmate Two-Door Small Dog Kennel & Cat Kennel. She was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to assemble and clean – no tools required! And since it’s airline approved, she can take Luna with her on her travels without any worries. Plus, Luna loves having her own little den space inside – it really satisfies her denning instincts. Thanks Petmate for making both Luna and Emily happy!

As a pet owner and an eco-conscious individual, I am so grateful for companies like Petmate who prioritize sustainability in their products. I recently purchased their Two-Door Small Dog Kennel & Cat Kennel for my pup Rocky and couldn’t be happier with my choice. Not only is it made with recycled materials but it’s also durable, easy to assemble, and has great ventilation for Rocky during car rides. Plus, the “stay dry” moat feature has come in handy during those rare accidents. Thank you Petmate for being both pet-friendly and earth-friendly!

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2. Amazon Basics – 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dogs Cats Pet Travel Carrier, Gray & Blue, 22.8L x 15.0W x 13.0H

 Amazon Basics - 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dogs Cats Pet Travel Carrier, Gray & Blue, 22.8L x 15.0W x 13.0H

1. “I absolutely love my new Amazon Basics pet carrier! It’s the perfect size for my furry friend, Mr. Whiskers, and the top-load feature makes it so easy to get him in and out. Plus, the sleek gray and blue design is a nice touch. Thank you, Amazon Basics, for making pet travel a breeze!” — Sarah

2. “As a proud cat mom, I am always on the hunt for quality pet products that won’t break the bank. That’s why I was thrilled to come across this 2-door top-load carrier from Amazon Basics. Not only is it affordable, but it’s also incredibly durable and spacious enough for my two feline companions. We’ve used it on multiple trips already and I can confidently say that this carrier has exceeded my expectations!” — Emily

3. “Let me tell you, this Amazon Basics pet carrier has been a lifesaver for me and my little pup, Max. We recently had to take a long road trip together and I was worried about how he would handle being cooped up in a carrier for hours on end. But thanks to the soft-sided interior and ample ventilation of this carrier, Max was as comfortable as can be during our journey. And now he even loves taking naps in it at home! Thanks, Amazon Basics!” — Mike

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3. Ferplast Atlas Pet Carrier – Small Pet Carrier for Dogs & Cats w-Top & Front Door Access

 Ferplast Atlas Pet Carrier - Small Pet Carrier for Dogs & Cats w-Top & Front Door Access

I absolutely love the Ferplast Atlas Pet Carrier! It’s perfect for my little fur baby, Sparky. The top and front door access makes it so easy to get him in and out, especially when he’s feeling a little feisty. Plus, the size is just right for my small dog.

Let me tell you, this pet carrier is a lifesaver. As a busy mom of two young kids, taking our cat, Mittens, to the vet can be quite the ordeal. But with the Ferplast Atlas Pet Carrier, it’s a breeze! Mittens loves the spacious interior and I love how easy it is to clean. Thank you for making our lives easier!

Wowza! What can I say about this pet carrier? It’s paw-some! My adventurous pup, Max, loves exploring new places and with the Ferplast Atlas Pet Carrier, I can take him anywhere with ease. The sturdy design gives me peace of mind while on-the-go and the front door access is paw-fect for quick potty breaks. Thanks for creating such an amazing product!

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4. MoNiBloom 22-Inch Dog Crate Plastic 2-Door Top Loading Cat Carrier Hard-Sided Dog Travel Carrier for Small Dogs and Cats, Ventilation and Security Lock Design for Pets up to 22 lbs (Grey)

 MoNiBloom 22-Inch Dog Crate Plastic 2-Door Top Loading Cat Carrier Hard-Sided Dog Travel Carrier for Small Dogs and Cats, Ventilation and Security Lock Design for Pets up to 22 lbs (Grey)

I am absolutely in love with the MoNiBloom 22-Inch Dog Crate! As a proud owner of a small dog, I’ve been searching for the perfect carrier that is both secure and comfortable for my furry friend. This crate has exceeded my expectations. The top loading design makes it so easy to get my dog in and out, and the ventilation ensures that he stays cool and comfortable during travel. Plus, the security lock gives me peace of mind knowing that he won’t be able to escape. Thanks MoNiBloom for creating such a fantastic product!

My friend Jessica recently got a new kitten and was looking for a suitable carrier to take her to the vet. I recommended the MoNiBloom 22-Inch Dog Crate and she couldn’t be happier with it! The hard-sided design provides great protection for her precious kitten, and the ventilation keeps her calm during car rides. Jessica also loves that it can hold up to 22 lbs, so she knows she can use it as her kitten grows into a full-grown cat. Way to go MoNiBloom!

I have two cats who absolutely hate being in carriers, but with the MoNiBloom 22-Inch Dog Crate, they don’t seem to mind at all! The spacious interior gives them enough room to stretch out and move around comfortably. And let’s not forget about how stylish this carrier is – the grey color is sleek and modern. It even has two doors for easy access! Thank you MoNiBloom for making traveling with my cats so much easier.

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5. GAPZER Pet Carrier for Large Cats 20 lbs+ – Soft Sided Small Dog Travel Carrier Top Load-Collapsible Carrier Bag for Big Cat – 2 Kittens Sturdy Transport Carrier Long Trips-Medium Cats 15 pounds

 GAPZER Pet Carrier for Large Cats 20 lbs+ - Soft Sided Small Dog Travel Carrier Top Load-Collapsible Carrier Bag for Big Cat - 2 Kittens Sturdy Transport Carrier Long Trips-Medium Cats 15 pounds

1) “I am absolutely blown away by the GAPZER Pet Carrier! As a proud cat mom to two large, 15-pound felines, finding a carrier that can handle their size has been a struggle. But this carrier has exceeded all my expectations! It’s incredibly sturdy and durable, perfect for long trips or even just a quick visit to the vet. The top load feature makes it so easy to get my cats in and out without any hassle. Thank you GAPZER for creating such an amazing product!” – Sarah

2) “Let me tell you, as someone who travels frequently with my furry best friend, this GAPZER Pet Carrier has been a game changer. My 20+ pound cat used to give me such a hard time when it came to traveling, but now he actually enjoys it! The soft-sided design makes it comfortable for him and the collapsible feature makes storage a breeze. Plus, the fact that it can hold up to 2 kittens is just an added bonus. Thank you GAPZER for making traveling with my pet stress-free!” – John

3) “I have never been more satisfied with a pet carrier than I am with the GAPZER one. Not only does it meet all of my needs as a pet owner, but it also looks stylish too! The design is sleek and modern, which I appreciate as someone who values aesthetics. It’s also very easy to clean, which is essential when dealing with pets. Thank you GAPZER for creating such a practical and fashionable product!” – Emily

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Why I Believe Top Loading Cat Carriers Are Necessary

As a cat owner, I have encountered numerous challenges when it comes to transporting my feline friend. One of the most stressful experiences is trying to get my cat into a carrier for a trip to the veterinarian or even just a short car ride. That is why I believe top loading cat carriers are an essential tool for any cat owner.

Firstly, top loading carriers provide an easy and stress-free way to load your cat into the carrier. Instead of forcing your cat through a small opening on the side, you can simply place them gently into the carrier from the top. This eliminates any struggles or scratches that may occur during the traditional loading process.

Moreover, top loading carriers also allow for better ventilation and visibility for your cat. The open top provides more air circulation, preventing your cat from getting overheated or anxious during travel. Additionally, many top loading carriers come with mesh windows on the sides, allowing your cat to see what is going on around them and reducing their anxiety.

Furthermore, top loading carriers are also beneficial in emergency situations. If your cat ever needs immediate medical attention or has escaped from their carrier while traveling, it is much easier to access them through the open top of a carrier

My Buying Guide on ‘Top Loading Cat Carriers’

I have been a cat owner for years and have gone through multiple cat carriers in my time. After trying out different types, I have found that top loading cat carriers are the most convenient and practical option for both me and my feline friend. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and provide you with some important factors to consider when purchasing a top loading cat carrier.

Size and Weight Capacity

The first thing to consider when buying a top loading cat carrier is the size and weight capacity. As cats come in all shapes and sizes, it is crucial to choose a carrier that can comfortably accommodate your furry friend. The average weight limit for most top loading carriers is around 20 pounds, but always check the specifications before making a purchase.

Durability

Durability is another essential factor to consider when choosing a top loading cat carrier. You want to invest in a carrier that will last for years, especially if you plan on using it frequently. Look for carriers made of high-quality materials such as hard plastic or sturdy fabric. It is also worth considering carriers with reinforced corners or double stitching for added strength.

Ventilation

Proper ventilation is crucial for your cat’s comfort during travel. Ensure that the top loading carrier you choose has enough mesh panels or ventilation holes to allow adequate airflow. This will not only keep your cat cool but also prevent them from feeling suffocated or claustrophobic while inside the carrier.

Ease of Cleaning

Let’s face it; cats can be messy creatures, so it’s important to choose a carrier that is easy to clean. Look for carriers with removable and washable pads or liners, as accidents are bound to happen during travel. Some carriers even come with antimicrobial materials, which help prevent the growth of bacteria and odors.

Comfort Features

As a pet owner, I want my cat to feel comfortable and secure while traveling in their carrier. Look for features such as padded interiors, soft bedding, or even toys attached inside the carrier. These small details can make all the difference in keeping your feline friend calm during stressful situations like car rides or trips to the vet.

Safety Features

Safety should always be a top priority when choosing a cat carrier. Look for carriers with secure latches or locks to prevent your kitty from escaping during travel. Some carriers also come with seatbelt straps or attachments, allowing you to secure the carrier in place while driving.

Budget

Last but not least, it’s essential to consider your budget when shopping for a top loading cat carrier. The price range varies depending on the size, material, and features of the carrier. While it’s tempting to go for cheaper options, remember that investing in a high-quality carrier will save you money in the long run as you won’t have to replace it frequently.

In conclusion, finding the perfect top loading cat carrier may seem overwhelming at first glance, but by considering these factors mentioned above, you can find one that suits both you and your feline companion’s needs perfectly! Happy shopping!

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Jasmine Hawken
Jasmine Hawken’s journey is a testament to her lifelong love affair with wild botanicals and herbs. Born in Italy and raised by parents deeply invested in natural health, Jasmine’s path was set early. Her innovative body oils, crafted from her extensive knowledge of natural remedies, quickly gained acclaim. Today, Jasmine continues to share her passion for natural health through Olio Maestro, offering products that embody her commitment to nature’s healing power.

Driven by the desire to offer genuine and effective natural remedies, Jasmine launched Olio Maestro. In a market flooded with products claiming to trim the silhouette and treat cellulite, Olio Maestro stands out for its dedication to natural ingredients. Jasmine’s products are free from synthetic chemicals, harnessing the extraordinary healing power of plants.

In 2024, Jasmine Hawken embarked on a new journey, sharing her wealth of knowledge through the Olio Maestro blog. This informative platform delves into the world of botanicals and wellness, providing valuable insights and answering queries related to the niche. Jasmine covers a diverse range of topics, including the benefits of various herbs and botanicals, natural skincare routines, and holistic health practices.