The Best Cat Car Seat

If you need a safe, cute way to bring your favorite feline along for rides, a cat car seat is the way to go. These products keep your cat secure and comfortable while also providing an exciting view of the outside world. But not every cat car seat raises the bar in the way that's best for your specific pet, which is why we've compiled this awesome list. Read on to find a great seat for your cool cat.

What To Look For

These “must haves” prowled their way onto our list: does the seat keep your cat securely in place? Is it comfortable for your cat to sit inside for relatively long periods of time? Finally, is it easy for the owner to set up and put away? Each cat car seat on our list passed the test, but Cathpetic won top honors thanks to their seat being both comfortable and secure. We also loved the Yokee carrier seat, which makes placing and removing your cat from the car a simple matter. Keep reading to see which cat car seat is right for your road trips.

Cathpetic Travel Bag Cat Car Seat

Getting into shape

The unique design of this cat car carrier puts it a cut above the rest.
Best Overall

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Cathpetic thought outside the box for this cat car seat, jolting it to the top of our list. Its unique ovular shape lets your cat enter and exit with ease when needed, while also keeping them firmly in place during the drive itself. The high-density sponge and memory cotton material ensures their ride will be as comfy as it will be safe.

Pros 

  • It’s possible to unzip the front while leaving the seatbelt on, giving your cat room to stretch out safely.
  • The stabilizing material can be good for cats who tend to get carsick.

Cons 

  • The Velcro straps are a little stubby, but they can be stretched to fit larger car consoles.

Pet Gear 360 View Cat Car Seat

Room with a view

This cat car seat lets your kitty see all of the sights.
Runner Up

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If you want your cat to have an excellent window spot, this cat car seat is a great choice. The carrier roof can be zipped open, and since the sides are see-through mesh, your cat can get a 360-degree view whether they’re buckled in or peering out. It comes with a carrier handle, too, for out-of-car use.

Pros 

  • This seat comes in a wide variety of different colors and patterns.  
  • It’s much more capacious than the typical cat car seat, letting long or chunky cats stretch out and relax.
  • The collapsible frame is a big help when putting it away.

Cons 

  • It can be somewhat difficult to clean.

Yokee Fully Detachable Cat Car Seat

Pick up and pet

The suave carrier design of this cat car seat makes it one of our favorites.
Best Carrier Design

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This cat car seat has our favorite design, due to its luxurious style. The pure cotton material makes it both durable and cozy, and the soft matted interior floor only sweetens the deal. It also has options for attaching it to either single or double door armrests. Roll it all up in a stylish, flexible veneer and you have a cat car seat that truly makes no compromises between style and substance.

Pros 

  • This seat can be ordered in a range of tasteful patterns and colors.
  • It’s easy to wash since many pieces can be removed.

Cons 

  • The safety belt can be tricky to adjust, but that also makes it more secure.

K&H Pet Products Bucket Cat Car Seat

Cozy kitties

Your cat can stay both safe and pampered with the help of this seat.
Most Comfortable

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If keeping your kitties snug is of paramount importance, you’ll want to take a look at this cat car seat. The fleece interior provides an incredibly cozy ride even as the discrete safety belt keeps your cat safely in place. The seat also features a curved back, which fits cars better while still allowing your pet to sprawl out.

Pros 

  • The seat cover can easily be removed and is machine washable.
  • Your cat can stay in the seat even during rough or bumpy rides. 

Cons 

  • Additional top belts would help keep the seat more firmly attached to the car. 

Marslabo Upgraded Metal Frame Cat Carrier

Power and comfort

This cat car seat stands out for its flexibility and safety features.
Best With Metal Frame

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This seat is made of durable metal, but it’s still surprisingly flexible. The straps wrap tightly around the headrest and also lift the seat so that your cat can see out the window. Its removable plush liner is easy to wash, so your kitty can always stay clean and comfy.

Pros 

  • The included zipper pouches and water bowl are nice bonuses.
  • The seat’s bucket design uses the weight of your cat to help keep it in place, which adds an extra layer of stability.
  • The added elevation can be great for cats who get carsick easily.

Cons 

  • The harness can weaken if it’s left in the sun too long.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a cat car seat even if I don’t drive my cat around?

You may not typically take your cat on a day trip, but it’s still helpful to have a safe cat car seat to put your kitty in if you ever have to take them to the vet or evacuate them in an emergency. You never know when you might have to take your cat on the road.

Is there any particular material a cat car seat should be made out of?

Excluding fabrics your cat might be allergic to, there isn’t a canonized standard when it comes to cat car seat materials. That said, soft materials that are easy to remove and wash will probably hit the best balance between making sure your cat is comfortable and easing your own share of the hassle on wash day.

About the Author

Chris is a freelance writer living in Austin with his kitten and elderly cat. Chris adores his cats and understands the joys and struggles of owning more than one feline. With so many options out there, Chris wants to help you find the products to make sure your cat is happy and healthy.

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