Are you looking for the best cat carrier for long-distance car travel with a litter box? As a cat parent to Foofi, I’ve had my fair share of long-distance travels with my baby. Trust me, finding the right travel carrier that’s safe and comfortable and comes with a portable litter box is a game-changer. Let’s dive in!
Best Cat Carriers With Litter Boxes
1. Necoichi Portable Stress-Free Carrier and Litter Box
As a seasoned cat owner and enthusiast, I’ve had my fair share of experiences with cat carriers. One that stands out is the Necoichi Portable Stress-Free Cat Carrier with Litter Box.
The litter box set fits snugly inside the carrier and is useful for any cat journey. It has two mesh panel sides for ventilation and visibility and a waterproof fleece mat for easy cleaning. The carrier also comes with zipper locks for added safety.
Highlights
- Cage and litter box set for travel, guests, moving, or convenience.
- Cage with two mesh panel sides for breathability and visibility.
- Seamless, durable, waterproof liner for easy cleaning and leak prevention.
- Foldable litter box for convenient portability.
- Holds pets up to 30 pounds
Pros
- Spacious 20″ x 20″ x 31″ dimensions allow multiple cats to travel comfortably
- Comes with a built-in litter box set, making long-distance travel easier for you and your cat
- Two mesh panels offer excellent ventilation and visibility
- Includes a waterproof fleece mat for easy cleaning
- Has a high average rating of 4 stars, proving its customer satisfaction
Cons
- Might be too large for some car interiors
- Despite its high rating of 4 stars, some users have reported issues with zipper durability
2. Prutapet Large Cat Carrier With Collapsible Litter Box and Bowl
Another cat carrier I’ve found to be a game-changer is the Prutapet Large Cat Carrier. This carrier features a collapsible litter box and water bowl, making it a fantastic choice for road trips and camping.
It’s spacious and comfortable, thanks to its soft lamb fluff bottom. The carrier can be buckled for safety during car rides, and when not in use, it can be easily folded for storage.
Highlights
- Safety buckles connect to the safety belt for secure attachment to the seat.
- Metallic frame and 600D Oxford fabric for strength and durability.
- Carrier can be folded for easy storage.
- Extra storage space for pet supplies.
- Holds pets up to 55 pounds
Pros
- Spacious and comfortable
- Collapsible litter box and a travel bowl make it highly convenient
- Equipped with washable lamb fluff for your cat’s comfort
- Can be folded for easy storage when not in use
Cons
- Carrier’s zipper may be a bit too easily accessible for some cats
- Some pet owners may find it too heavy for long-distance car travel
3. Pet Fit For Life Extra Large Portable Litter Box With Collapsible Bowl
The Pet Fit for Life Extra Large Portable Litter Box is a litter box that provides ample room for your cat to move around and rest comfortably during long car journeys. The reversible floor that can be flipped over for cleaning is handy for long trips.
And the collapsible litter box makes it a great pick for those long road trips with your feline friend.
Highlights
- Flexible litter box collapses for convenient storage.
- Folds easily, making it suitable for travel and storage.
- Includes a bonus travel bowl for keeping your pet hydrated.
- Effortless cleaning with a simple wipe using a damp cloth.
- Large enough to hold 4-5 pounds of cat litter.
- Easy to bring on family vacations, camping trips, or in an RV.
Pros
- Portable litter box is easy to clean
- Spacious
- Zippered front door allows easy access to your pet without the risk of them escaping
- Average rating of 5 stars from users indicates its high quality and good performance.
Cons
- May be too large for owners with smaller vehicles or limited space
- Zippered front door may not be as durable as the rest of the carrier
4. One for Pets Portable 2-in-1 Double Pet Kennel
When I first came across the One for Pets Portable 2-in-1 Double Pet Kennel, I was impressed by its size and design. It’s perfect for those who have more than one cat.
The double design provides plenty of room for each cat to have their own space, yet it can be easily converted into one large space when needed.
Highlights
- Built-in straps for safe connection to a seatbelt
- Easy setup and folds flat in seconds
- Removable and washable pad cover
- Detach into two single kennels
- Comes with an individual carry case for easy storage
Pros
- Built-in portable cat litter box
- Easy to carry and transport
- Offers ample room for your cat to move around comfortably
- Features a sturdy construction, ensuring durability and longevity
Cons
- Might be too small to accommodate bigger cats
- May not be the best option for particularly anxious or restless cats during long journeys
5. SportPet Cat Kennel
Another carrier that has made Foofi’s long road trips more manageable is the SPORT PET Cat Kennel. Its design is well thought out, stretching straight across the car’s back seat, transforming it into a cozy room for your pet.
Highlights
- Cozy cove for your cat (up to 50 lb)
- Folds down flat for convenient storage.
- Seatbelt straps for secure placement in your vehicle during travel.
- Cushiony soft on one side, waterproofed for spill protection on the reverse.
Pros
- Designed to fit perfectly in the back seat of a car, providing ample space for your cat.
- Made of durable material
- Easy to assemble and disassemble
Cons
- May not be ideal for larger cats
- Some cats might find the carrier a bit confined for very long journeys
6. PetLuv Cat Stroller With Detachable Wheels
The PetLuv Cat Stroller with Detachable Wheels is designed to provide maximum comfort for your cat during long car rides. It has a spacious interior, good ventilation, and a built-in litter box for convenience during travel.
Highlights
- Sturdy steel frame, fully collapsible, covered in soft and supple material.
- Convenient adjustable carry straps and padded handle grip.
- Folds flat for easy storage.
- Perfect size for medium to large-sized cats or two to three pets weighing up to 45 pounds combined.
- Top, front, and side panels zip open for easy access
Pros
- Spacious interior
- Good ventilation
- Incorporates a built-in litter box
- Made from durable materials
Cons
- Size of the carrier might make it difficult to fit in smaller vehicles
- Built-in litter box might be too small for larger cats
7. CHEERING PET Portable Cat Condo With Collapsible Litter Box
Another great option for cat travel is the CHEERING PET Portable Cat Condo. This carrier, also known as a cat travel cage, is designed with your cat’s comfort in mind. It features a carry handle for easy transport and a collapsible litter box to help maintain cleanliness during travel.
Highlights
- Pop-up cat crate design for quick setup and compact storage
- Tough 600D Oxford cloth fabric and a strong, flexible steel wire frame
- Withstands sharp claws
- Heavy-duty fasteners keep accessories in place during travel
Pros
- Lightweight, making it easy to carry around
- Collapsible litter box can be conveniently stored when not in use
- Carry handle for easy transportation
- Condo design provides a sense of security for your cat during travel
Cons
- Limited space may not be suitable for larger or multiple cats
- Collapsible design may require assembly
8. Beatrice Pop Open Kennel
One of my favorite picks is the Beatrice Pop Open Kennel. This soft-sided carrier is perfect for those who travel long distances with their cats. It’s designed to stretch straight across the back seat of your car, creating a comfortable space specifically for your pet.
This unique design keeps your seats clean from pet hair, making it ideal for tidy individuals like me.
Highlights
- Easily pops up and folds flat to 11″ round.
- Soft-sided design with mesh screen windows for visibility and ventilation.
- Keeps pets contained and comfortable.
- Comes with a convenient storage pouch for backpack or luggage.
Pros
- Offers plenty of ventilation
- Comes with a foldable design for easy storage
- Has a removable and washable floor pad for hygiene
- Includes safety straps for securing the carrier in your car
Cons
- The size might be too large for small cars
- The steel frame could be stronger
9. EliteField Soft-Sided Cat Carrier Bag
As a cat expert, I’ve come across countless carriers over the years, and one that stands out from the crowd is the EliteField Soft-Sided Cat Carrier Bag. This carrier is crafted with synthetic fabric, providing your feline friend with a soft and comfortable environment.
Highlights
- Made with durable, lightweight, waterproof material
- Easy to clean
- Removable plush bed for your companion’s comfort
- Includes a seat belt loop for safety and a strap to attach to luggage
- Carrying handles and padded shoulder strap for easy travel
Pros
- Made of synthetic fabric, which is soft and durable
- Available in six different colors
- Compact and can fit under airplane seats
- Comes with a convenient three-year warranty, giving you peace of mind.
- Waterproof and easy to clean
Cons
- The soft sides of this carrier may collapse if not handled carefully.
- Suitable for smaller cats only, with a maximum weight recommendation of 18 lbs
10. LOKASS Cat Carrier
Another product I’ve had the chance to use in my travels with Foofi is the LOKASS Cat Carrier. This carrier is hard-sided, which can offer more protection for your feline friend during travel.
It also comes with a removable fluffy liner, which Foofi found quite comfortable. She would often curl up inside it and sleep, even when we were not traveling. This was a significant improvement from the soft-sided mesh carrier we initially used.
Highlights
- Plenty of room for pet comfort
- Ergonomic design with a lower back cushion
- Durable straps and chest harness for stability
- Removable bottom panel for cooler or warmer surfaces
- Equipped with two food containers and two bowls
Pros
- The hard-sided design offers more protection than soft-sided carriers.
- The removable fluffy liner provides extra comfort for your cat.
- The carrier is sized appropriately for most cats.
- Provides a sense of security and familiarity for your cat
Cons
- Its hard-sided design might make it bulkier and harder to store than soft-sided carriers.
- Not all cats may appreciate the confined space of a hard-sided carrier.
11. Frisco Travel Combo Large With Collapsible Litter Box
As a cat expert and a proud cat parent to Foofi, I understand the importance of a good cat carrier for long-distance car travel. Let me introduce you to the Frisco Travel Combo Large with Collapsible Litter Box.
It’s a great choice for those often on the road with their feline friends.
Highlights
- Three-step setup for quick and easy road trips
- Crafted with sturdy nylon fabric and smooth poly-plastic
- Mesh sides for your pet to enjoy the scenery
- Folds flat for easy storage after the trip
Pros
- Comes with an additional collapsible litter box and a water bowl
- Provides a soft lamb fluff at the bottom
- For safety during car rides, it can be buckled securely
- When not in use, this carrier is foldable for easy storage
Cons
- Some clever cats might find a way to unzip it
12. Jespet Soft-Sided Cat Carrier
Another travel carrier that deserves a spot on this list is the Jespet Soft-Sided Cat Carrier. With 19’’ L x 12’’ W x 12’’ H dimensions, this carrier is designed to accommodate cats weighing up to 20 lbs comfortably.
This travel carrier is made with synthetic fabric and polyester, ensuring both durability and comfort for your cat.
Highlights
- Soft-yet-durable carrier with mesh netting and removable pad
- Offers light, ventilation, and padding for pet comfort and safety during travel
- Folds down into a small, flat package for easy storage
- Comes with a convenient back pocket for storing your pet’s leash, treats, or other travel gear (sold separately)
Pros
- Affordable, providing great value for money.
- Collapsible design makes it easy to store when not in use.
- Airline-approved, allowing you to take your cat with you on flights.
- Lightweight and easy to stow away, perfect for traveling
Cons
- The carrier is not the best choice if you have a larger feline friend
- It doesn’t offer as much stability as hard-sided carriers
13. SportPet Designs Foldable Travel Cat Carrier
Next on the list is the SportPet Designs Foldable Travel Cat Carrier. This carrier caught my attention because it is an upgrade from the standard soft-sided carrier.
With its hard-sided structure, it provides better stability and is also easy to wipe clean. It also comes with a waterproof fleece mat that provides a comfortable space for your cat to rest and sleep during the journey.
Highlights
- Quick and easy setup whenever you need to travel with your pet
- Durable plastic and steel construction for a long life of use
- Unique triangular shape for a cozy lounging area for your cat
- Built-in slats and vents for a complete, calming view of the surroundings
Pros
- Spacious and comfortable for your cat, with room for a portable cat litter box.
- Upgrade from the typical soft-sided carrier
- Carrier folds flat for storage
- Comes complete with a waterproof fleece mat for your cat’s comfort and a litter tray for their convenience
Cons
- it is a bit heavier than a soft-sided carrier due to the hard-sided structure
- it does take a bit of effort to fold and unfold
14. Sherpa Original Deluxe
The Sherpa Original Deluxe is the last on my list. It is a basic carrier, perfect for those who prefer simplicity and reliability. It has the same top and side entry panels as most carriers and folds flat for packing or storage.
One of its distinctive features is its ample ventilation and visibility provided by its mesh panels.
Highlights
- Waterproof interior base
- Removable, machine-washable, cozy base liner
- Can be used as a soft-sided crate for regular outings and vet visits
- Includes a large storage pocket and a luggage strap that doubles as a seatbelt security pass-through for car rides
Pros
- It’s extremely comfortable for cats
- It’s airline-approved
- The side and top entry points are a real lifesaver
Cons
- Doesn’t come with a built-in litter box.
- The zippers could be a bit stronger
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Should you put a litter box in a cat carrier?
The answer depends on the length of your journey. If you plan to travel with your cat for less than 2-4 hours, you might not need a litter box. But if the trip takes longer, a travel litter box can be of great help.
2. How do you transport a cat on a long road trip?
Transporting a cat on a long road trip can be a challenge. But over the years, I’ve found some tips that work for Foofi and me. For example, I feed Foofi at least three hours before the journey to prevent tummy trouble. I also ensure the carrier is securely fitted inside the car and has enough ventilation.
3. Can a cat travel a long distance in a car?
The short answer is yes, but it does require careful preparation. One of the most important considerations is ensuring your cat can access their usual cat food during the journey. Having familiar food can provide comfort and routine amidst the changes of a long car ride.
Final Verdict
After thoroughly researching and reviewing various models, I’m confident that the top travel carriers for feline friends are those with integrated litter boxes. These carriers provide a comfortable environment for your cat, allowing them to stretch their legs, have a meal, and find a comfortable place to relieve themselves. This can make traveling long distances with your cat in the car a much smoother experience.
Meow there, dear feline enthusiasts! My name is Pouyan and as a lifelong cat lover and enthusiast, my life has been blessed by the gentle purrs and undeniable charm of our feline companions. Since my early childhood, my journey has been intertwined with the graceful, enigmatic creatures we call cats.
Growing up, my family was never without the company of at least one cat. These wonderful creatures were more than just pets; they were cherished members of our family. From the moment I met my first cat, a tiny ball of fluff named Foofi, my heart was forever captivated by their elegance and mystique.