Carriers & Beds
Secure carriers for vet visits and travel, plus beds where your cat can feel safe and settled.
For most cats, the most stressful moment is when the carrier comes out of the cupboard, usually because it only ever appears before a vet visit. A well-chosen carrier left open at home becomes just another resting spot, and that makes journeys noticeably easier for everyone.
Choosing a carrier
- **Size:** your cat should be able to stand up and turn round; too large and it will slide about in transit.
- **Top opening:** hard carriers with a top door let you lower your cat in without pushing, and make vet examinations easier.
- **Ventilation and locks:** look for airflow on several sides, secure catches and surfaces that are easy to clean.
Hard plastic carriers are durable, easy to wash and safer in the car. Soft carriers are light and foldable, which suits short trips on foot; for air travel, check the airline’s size rules in advance. A blanket that smells of home and a pheromone spray inside the carrier help keep stress down.
When choosing a bed, watch how your cat likes to sleep. Cats that curl up tend to prefer round beds with raised edges, while those that like to hide or feel the cold often choose enclosed igloo styles. Window-mounted hammocks suit sun-seekers. Removable, machine-washable covers make keeping beds clean much simpler.
Common questions about Carriers & Beds
How do I get my cat used to the carrier?
Leave the carrier out at home with the door open, a blanket inside and the occasional treat. Once your cat wanders in and out freely, close the door for short spells, then try brief car trips.
Should I buy a hard or soft carrier?
For car journeys and vet visits, hard top-opening models are safer and more practical. Soft carriers are light and foldable, so they suit short walks and some flights.
Why won’t my cat use its bed?
Location and shape usually decide it. Move the bed to a warm, quiet spot where your cat already naps and add a blanket that smells familiar. If an open bed does not work, try an enclosed igloo style.
