Cat carrier

I was borrowing a cat carrier since the boys were tiny, and had to recently give it back. They go in for their neutering on Sept. 8, so I need to buy 2 before then (darn them for growing, they can't share anymore!). I am trying to find something sturdy as I buckle it into the car seat but not too expensive. Does anyone have suggestions of brands or stores that sell good carriers for my boys? Also, they are 5 months and around 5 pounds. What size crate do they need?

Since the average cat will get to 9-12 lbs its best to go with a medium size for each one. I got mine from Walmart and its got a seat belt thingy built in. Cost about $20.

I have 2 right now - a small one that Jack was shipped in and then had to buy him a medium one. Both cats really are too big for the small one, but will do in a pinch if needed.

I can use the smaller one with my new Ocicat kitten till he outgrows it, then go get a medium size one later.

I don't know what options you have for shopping. But here I have a farm supply store (that sells a lot of different stuff) that has Petmate brand. They charge around $15 for standard cat size and often have sales on all of the carriers by that brand.

The last one I got I found in the dog section of the pet store. It was less expensive and bigger that the kitty ones. I get the ones that have a door on the top and a door on the end because it makes it easier to get them in at home and out at the vet's office.

http://www.petmate.com/Products/Doub...el__21817.aspx

I don't remember how much it cost, though.

If you are looking based on price, check craigslist or local feed stores.

I would highly recommend getting the ones that open on top AND in front. We have one cat who used to go into the carrier just fine when he was a kitten, but then developed a phobia about it, and now the only way we can get him in is thru the top opening! Also, definitely go with ones that will work when they are full grown, because you will need to use it again later. We have 4 cats, 4 carriers. All medium sized 23" by 15" by 14", I think.

I'm thinking one of these two. In about 2-3 years we will be traveling across country with the boys, and I like the first as it is very open- they will be able to see, and have air flow... but the reviews aren't all positive.

Suncast carrier

Or this one, but it has less ventilation. I tried to find one with the top opening, but they are all twice the price, and I don't have the money to buy two if they are like that. Thankfully (for now) my boys enjoy their crates, and sleep in them, hopefully they stay that way!

Petmate carrier

Has anyone ever used the suncast?

I'd go with the Petmate (2nd one). Most EVERY cat I've known would prefer the more enclosed crate - not the open one. To me the open one is more for a dog then a cat.

Ahh, ok. I figured they would like to see out. I will have to get the second one, when I get paid, heh.

There are massive amounts of pet carriers on my local craigslist here.

I'd give that a try too.

I have been watching our craigslist, and so far there has been one. I'm going to keep watching, maybe more will pop up before I need them!

That Petsmate carrier you sent the link for states it's designed for pets up to 9' tall. That's not very tall! You migiht see if there's a bigger one!

Hmm.. didn't notice that. Ok, looked again. This one is 14x24x16 and still affordable with good reviews. Is there anything I am missing about it? I'm thinking I would want the Junior size.
Remington Carrier

Gosh, if that one came with a top opening too, I might have gotten it! Looks pretty good to me!

Very cool! Hopefully they have it in the store when we go this weekend. I don't think I have time to site-to-store the thing after I get paid friday, in time for their vet trip the 8th. Poor boys, little do they know their manliness is only intact for a week or so! Their sister is luckier- she won't get done till my roommate does it, but I didn't want any "special" babies, so the boys are getting done FAST!

Originally Posted by mrsgreenjeens

I would highly recommend getting the ones that open on top AND in front.

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I second that. I need to put both our kitties in from the top. Neely is so quick that I would have a difficult time trying to put her in from the front.

I'm in Japan, so my brand recommends probably would not be helpful. But I will just add my 2 cents of gettting a good carrier:

Be careful of getting a top opener if your cats are heavy or will be getting big. If perchance they develop a carrier phobia you can always drop them into it gently, rump first (so they don't think they are being cornered) by standing it on its end. And gently righting it once kitty is inside.

If you get a used carrier, wash down thoroughly with soap, water, and maybe even bleach, let dry completely and sit for a day or so before using with your precious pets. It just goes without saying.

That said, I've had good luck at thrift stores.