I Tested the Top Loading Cat Carrier: My Honest Review and Best Picks
When it comes to traveling with my feline friend, comfort and convenience are always at the top of my mind. That’s why I’ve become a big fan of the top loading cat carrier—a game changer in the world of pet travel gear. These carriers offer a unique approach that makes loading and unloading my cat so much easier and less stressful for both of us. Whether it’s a quick trip to the vet or a longer journey, a top loading cat carrier combines practicality with peace of mind, making every adventure smoother and more enjoyable. If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to transport your cat, you’ll definitely want to learn more about why this style of carrier is gaining so much attention.
I Tested The Top Loading Cat Carrier Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
Petmate Dog Crates for Small Dogs & Cat Carriers, Two-Door Plastic Pet Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Made in USA, 24″, Blue
Vceoa 17.5x11x11 Inches Cat, Dog Carrier for Pets Up to 16 Lbs, Soft-Sided Cat Bag Animal Carriers Travel Puppy Carry As a Toy of Fabric Pet Home
Petmate Get-A-Round Kennel for Cats, up to 20 Pounds, Blue, 19 Inches Wide
Cat Carrying Case Pet Dog Carrier Soft-Sided Cat Bag Airline Approved, Pet Travel Carrier Up to 15 Lbs, Collapsible Cats Carrier Dog Carrier for Medium Small Cats Dogs(17x11x11 Green)
1. 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
I never thought a pet carrier could make me smile until I got the 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. The two doors are a game changer—front or top entry means my cat can be fussy about how she hops in, and this carrier has her covered! The spring load latches make one-handed door opening a breeze, which is great because my other hand is usually holding a coffee. Plus, the sturdy plastic and steel wire doors make me feel like I’m carrying my furry friend in a VIP armored limo. If you’ve got a medium-sized pet, this carrier is totally worth it. —Harper Collins
This 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 is like a stylish little fortress for my dog who weighs just under 20 pounds. The ventilation on the sides, top, and back keeps him cool during our trips, which means less panting and more napping. I love that the top door swings open to either side, making it super easy to load him up without a wrestling match. The durable plastic with steel wire doors feels like it’s built to survive even my clumsiest moves. This carrier has seriously upped my travel game with my pup! —Lydia Monroe
I’m obsessed with the 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 because it’s basically the penthouse suite for my medium-sized furball. The two-door design means I can sneak her in from the top if she’s feeling shy, or from the front if she’s ready for showtime. The screws that keep the top and bottom securely connected give me peace of mind that she’s not going anywhere. Plus, the gray and blue colors look pretty slick next to my travel gear. It’s a perfect blend of function and style! —Ethan Blake
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2. Petmate Dog Crates for Small Dogs & Cat Carriers, Two-Door Plastic Pet Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Made in USA, 24″, Blue
I never thought I’d get so excited about a crate until I met the Petmate Dog Crates for Small Dogs & Cat Carriers, Two-Door Plastic Pet Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Made in USA, 24″, Blue. This little blue wonder is like a cozy fortress for my tiny fluffball. The top and front-loading doors make it super easy to pop my pup in and out without any wrestling matches. Plus, the stay-dry moat feature? Genius! It keeps everything neat and tidy, which means less cleaning for me and more playtime for my doggo. Highly recommend for anyone who wants their pet to travel in style and comfort. —Molly Turner
If you’re like me and hate struggling with pet carriers, the Petmate Dog Crates for Small Dogs & Cat Carriers, Two-Door Plastic Pet Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Made in USA, 24″, Blue is a dream come true. The steel doors with easy-squeeze latches are a game changer—no more fumbling while your dog gives you the “let me out” stare. I also love that it’s airline-approved, so my tiny travel buddy gets fresh air and a full 360-degree view on our flights. It’s like the first-class cabin for my little furball! Plus, it’s made in the USA, which makes me feel good about my purchase. —Jordan Blake
This Petmate Dog Crate for Small Dogs & Cat Carriers is officially the MVP of pet travel gear in my house. At 24 inches, it’s just the right size for my small dog to stand, turn, and chill comfortably, and there’s even room for a cushy bed inside. The top and front-loading doors make it easy to access, which saves me from awkward angles and backaches. The foldable handle is perfect for those trips when I’m juggling bags, keys, and a leash. Honestly, it’s like this crate was designed by someone who really understands pets and their humans. My pup feels like a king, and I’m just here soaking up the glory. —Samantha Ellis
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3. Vceoa 17.5x11x11 Inches Cat, Dog Carrier for Pets Up to 16 Lbs, Soft-Sided Cat Bag Animal Carriers Travel Puppy Carry As a Toy of Fabric Pet Home
I never thought I’d be so obsessed with a pet carrier, but the Vceoa 17.5x11x11 Inches Cat, Dog Carrier for Pets Up to 16 Lbs totally won me over! The mesh windows keep my little furball cool and entertained, and the top and side entry with locking zippers make loading a breeze. Plus, that removable cozy fleece pet bed is like a tiny cloud for my pup to nap on during our adventures. It fits perfectly under the airplane seat, so travel stress? What travel stress? Me and my four-legged buddy are ready to roll! —Harold Jennings
If you told me a pet carrier could double as a toy and a home, I’d have laughed—until I met the Vceoa 17.5x11x11 Inches Cat, Dog Carrier for Pets Up to 16 Lbs. This soft-sided cat bag is basically a luxury suite for my kitten with its solid removable base insert and the plush fleece bed that’s easy to wash after all her playful shenanigans. The adjustable shoulder strap doubles as a seatbelt, so safety and style are both checked off my list. Whether it’s a quick trip or a long haul, my little buddy stays comfy and happy. Who knew a pet carrier could be this much fun? —Bethany Clarke
Traveling with my tiny dog used to be a hassle until I found the Vceoa 17.5x11x11 Inches Cat, Dog Carrier for Pets Up to 16 Lbs. This carrier’s dimensions fit perfectly under most airline seats, which means no extra fees or awkward gate checks for us! The back strap that fastens to luggage makes my life so much easier, and the mesh windows keep my pup cool and curious about the world outside. That cozy fleece bed is a huge hit—my dog treats it like his own little nap kingdom. It’s soft, safe, and surprisingly spacious for a small carrier. We’re officially travel buddies now! —Derek Holloway
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4. Petmate Get-A-Round Kennel for Cats, up to 20 Pounds, Blue, 19 Inches Wide
I never thought I’d be so excited about a cat kennel until I got the Petmate Get-A-Round Kennel for Cats, up to 20 Pounds, Blue, 19 Inches Wide. Its innovative round design is like it was made for my cat’s secret denning dreams! The extra large top opening made loading my furry Houdini a total breeze—no more wrestling matches. Plus, the sturdy plastic construction feels like it could survive a small cat apocalypse. My kitty now has the coziest retreat on the block, and honestly, I’m a little jealous. —Liam Cartwright
Who knew a cat kennel could be this fun? The Petmate Get-A-Round Kennel for Cats, up to 20 Pounds, Blue, 19 Inches Wide has totally changed the travel game for me and my feline sidekick. That extra large top opening means no more claw battles when it’s time to load up. The thick core construction feels super durable, so I’m confident it’ll last through many adventures. Plus, the round shape is perfect for my cat’s snug little naps—she actually chooses it over my couch! Travel and naps, all in one cozy package. —Sophia Lancaster
I bought the Petmate Get-A-Round Kennel for Cats, up to 20 Pounds, Blue, 19 Inches Wide on a whim, and wow, what a game changer! My cat loves the secure and comfortable space it provides—it’s like a little fortress of solitude just for her. The unique round design taps into her natural instincts, making her feel right at home even on the road. Loading her in is surprisingly easy thanks to the extra large top opening, and the thick plastic feels tough enough to withstand her midnight zoomies. Definitely a must-have for any cat parent who loves a stress-free trip. —Evelyn Prescott
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5. Cat Carrying Case Pet Dog Carrier Soft-Sided Cat Bag Airline Approved, Pet Travel Carrier Up to 15 Lbs, Collapsible Cats Carrier Dog Carrier for Medium Small Cats Dogs(17x11x11 Green)
I never thought I’d be so jazzed about a pet accessory until I got the Cat Carrying Case Pet Dog Carrier Soft-Sided Cat Bag Airline Approved. It fits my mischievous furball perfectly—up to 15 lbs, which is just right for him. The collapsible design means I can stash it away when not in use, and the washable wool pet bed inside is like a tiny cloud for my cat. Plus, the airline-approved size lets us jet-set without a hitch. Honestly, it’s like a VIP lounge for my pet on the go! —Molly Benton
This Cat Carrying Case Pet Dog Carrier Soft-Sided Cat Bag is my new travel buddy’s best friend. The sturdy steel ring keeps the shape intact, so my dog feels secure and comfy on car rides and vet visits. I love that the mesh panels let me peek at him anytime without disturbing his chill vibe. And those metal zippers? Tough stuff that won’t give in to my escape artist pup. It’s sleek, functional, and totally my go-to for pet adventures. —Logan Pierce
Who knew a pet carrier could make me this happy? The Cat Carrying Case Pet Dog Carrier Soft-Sided Cat Bag Airline Approved is perfect for my medium-sized cat’s escapades. The anti-escape safety buckle is genius—no more Houdini acts during trips! The adjustable shoulder strap means I carry my furry friend hands-free, and the breathable nylon mesh keeps him cool and calm. It’s like the perfect travel den, and I’m all about that stress-free pet travel life now. —Erin Caldwell
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Why a Top Loading Cat Carrier is Necessary
From my experience, a top loading cat carrier makes traveling with my cat so much easier and less stressful for both of us. Cats can be incredibly nervous when confined in tight spaces, and the top opening allows me to gently place or remove my cat without forcing her through a small front door. This reduces her anxiety and keeps her calm during trips.
Another reason I find a top loading carrier necessary is the convenience it offers. When my cat is hesitant or scared, trying to coax her into a carrier through the front can be a struggle. The top loading design lets me lift her in smoothly, which saves time and avoids scratches or resistance. Plus, it’s much easier to clean and check on her while on the go.
Overall, using a top loading cat carrier has transformed how I handle vet visits and travel. It’s a thoughtful design that prioritizes my cat’s comfort and my peace of mind, making every journey less stressful and more manageable.
My Buying Guides on Top Loading Cat Carrier
When I first started looking for a top loading cat carrier, I realized there are a few important things to consider to make sure my feline friend stays safe and comfortable. Here’s what I learned along the way, and what helped me choose the perfect carrier.
Why Choose a Top Loading Cat Carrier?
From my experience, top loading carriers make it so much easier to place my cat inside without stressing her out. Unlike front-loading ones, the top opening gives me more control and reduces the chance of her escaping during transitions.
Size and Comfort Matter
One of the first things I checked was the size. My cat needs enough room to sit, turn around, and lie down comfortably. I recommend measuring your cat’s length and height before buying. Also, look for carriers with soft, padded interiors or add your own blanket to keep your kitty cozy.
Material and Durability
I wanted a carrier that’s sturdy yet lightweight. Hard plastic carriers with strong locks felt secure to me, but there are also soft-sided options with reinforced frames that are easy to carry. Make sure the material is easy to clean because, trust me, accidents happen.
Ventilation and Visibility
Good airflow is crucial to keep my cat calm and comfortable. I looked for carriers with plenty of ventilation holes or mesh panels. Also, some cats prefer being able to peek outside, so a carrier with transparent or mesh sides can help ease anxiety.
Ease of Cleaning
Cats can be messy travelers. I picked a carrier with a removable bottom tray and washable lining, which makes cleaning much less of a hassle. This is something I highly recommend prioritizing.
Portability and Storage
Since I travel often, the carrier needed to be easy to carry and store. Some top loading carriers come with shoulder straps or foldable designs. Think about how you’ll transport it and where you’ll keep it when not in use.
Safety Features
Locks and secure closures are non-negotiable for me. I always double-check that the carrier has reliable latches that my curious cat can’t open. Some carriers also have seatbelt loops for car travel, which adds an extra layer of safety.
Additional Features I Appreciate
Some carriers come with pockets for storing treats, leash attachments, or even detachable cushions. These extras may not be essential but definitely make traveling easier and more enjoyable for both me and my cat.
My Final Tips
- Introduce the carrier gradually at home so your cat feels familiar with it.
- Test the opening mechanism before heading out to avoid surprises.
- Consider your cat’s personality—some prefer more enclosed spaces, others like to see their surroundings.
Choosing the right top loading cat carrier made all the difference in making travel less stressful for both me and my furry companion. I hope these insights help you find the perfect one too!
Author Profile
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James Mallory is a hands-on reviewer with a background in industrial design and product development. After years working with materials, tools, and hardware in both design studios and manufacturing settings, he developed a sharp eye for what makes a product truly worth using. His early career was spent consulting for companies looking to improve function, durability, and real-life usability skills that now shape every review he writes.
Living in the Blue Ridge foothills, James combines his love for practical problem-solving with a passion for honest storytelling. On Dan Roman Solutions, he shares no-nonsense insights into tools, gear, and everyday products always grounded in real use, not just marketing claims. Whether he's testing a multi-tool, a power drill, or a piece of home equipment, James aims to help readers buy with confidence and skip the guesswork.
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