by Michele Blacksberg

Created on: February 09, 2009   Last Updated: February 11, 2009

Don't you dread getting your cat into a cat carrier? Kitties know when you have plans to put them inside that restricted space long before you actually move the cat carrier near them. You may find yourself struggling like one of those cartoon scenes where the cat braces all four feet against the door of the cat carrier as you struggle to get them inside or your cat suddenly turns into Zoro ready to slice you with a single sweep of their paw. Finding the best choices of cat carriers and using techniques to help soothe your cat will help calm the both of you.

Discount cat carriers:

There are numerous discount cat carriers available for those infrequent times you must take your cat to the veterinarian. Rectangular cardboard cat carriers are the cheapest, under $10. They have an inter-locking handle system for carrying, holes for ventilation and are lined with a waxy substance in case in your cat's panic, they wet the box.

Designer cat carriers:

Designer cat carriers start at around $50 dollars and go up to over $200 depending on the manufacturer and the material used in the bag. There are numerous choices and styles at www.catsplay.com to choose from. PETote Bali is a popular brand and has several styles and colors made with a mix of synthetics and leather. They can be found at Petco along with Sherba cat carriers; both are airline approved for in cabin use.

Travel cat carriers:

Travel cat carriers are useful for car travel and may be less expensive than designer cat carriers. At www.drsfostersmith their most economical cat carrier starts at $17.99 and may also be used as an airline-approved cat carrier.

Airline regulations for travel cat carriers:

All airlines have regulations pertaining to: the size of the carrier, ventilation, food, water, how many pets can travel inside the cabin at the same time, cost for a pet's travel, health certificates documenting vaccinations, weight of the animal, air temperature range for travel and restrictions if traveling accompanied or unaccompanied.

For example, Sherpa has created soft pet carrier that is specific to Delta Airline regulations and numerous airlines have approved other Sherpa designs for in cabin travel. At http://www.petsalley.com/infoairlinesandpets.html , 19 popular commercial airlines requirements are listed though it is best to check with your specific airline.

How to make cat carriers more comfortable:

Cat carriers can be made cozier by placing a towel or piece of carpet in the bottom of the carrier. Place treats or toys inside the carrier and leave the cat carrier out with its door open so your cat can get used to its smell and may even climb inside to investigate. A product called "Feliway" can also be sprayed inside the carrier 30 minutes before using to calm your cat. Feliway gives off a chemical that acts like the pheromones which are similar to the pheromones your cat gives off when they rub their face against surfaces in your house.

Traveling with your cat either a short or long distance will be less traumatic for both of you choose the proper cat carrier. Your cat may still complain about being in the cat carrier, but you will have the piece of mind that you have done everything you could to make your kitty as comfortable and safe as possible.

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