Choosing a Carrier or Crate for Your Dog or Cat: Which Type Suits You?

Hard crate, soft carrier or foldable travel basket: find out which type suits your dog or cat best, and what to look for when travelling by car, visiting the vet or flying.

Choose a hard plastic crate for the car, air travel and longer journeys: it offers the most stability and safety. Go for a soft carrier for short trips to the vet or on public transport, and pick a foldable travel basket if you mainly want extra carrying comfort at home or on short outings. Below you'll find exactly what to look for when choosing the right carrier for your dog or cat.

What types of carriers and travel baskets are there?

There are broadly three main types for transporting a dog or cat. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on how and how often you use it.

Hard plastic crate

A hard plastic crate, like the well-known travel crates, offers the best protection. The sturdy walls protect your pet during sudden braking or a collision, and most crates have ventilation openings on all sides. This type is required for air travel and is also recommended for long car journeys.

Soft carrier

A soft carrier made of sturdy nylon or polyester is lighter, foldable and easier to store. Ideal for a vet visit, a trip on public transport or a short outing with a small dog or cat. Do bear in mind: a soft carrier offers less protection in an accident and isn't suitable for the aircraft hold.

Foldable travel basket or crate

A foldable fabric basket with a lightweight frame combines the benefits of both: it's lighter than a hard crate, but a little sturdier than a simple carrier. Handy for short-term use at home, while camping, or when staying somewhere overnight.

Choosing a carrier: what to look for

Besides the type itself, a few practical features determine whether a carrier works well for your pet.

• Size: your pet should be able to stand up straight, turn around and lie down comfortably.
• Ventilation: choose a carrier with enough airflow on multiple sides, especially in warm weather.
• Fastening: a sturdy, pet-proof closure stops the carrier from opening on the way.
• Material: plastic is easy to clean, while fabric is lighter but less hygienic if accidents happen.
• Securing it: check whether the carrier can be secured with a seatbelt or Isofix.

The difference between a carrier for a dog and for a cat

For cats and smaller pets, a compact carrier with a handle and a small canopy is usually enough, mainly meant for trips to the vet. For dogs, the choice depends heavily on size: a small dog does fine in a soft carrier or backpack, while a medium to large dog benefits from a sturdy plastic crate, especially during car journeys or flights.

Carrier for the car, the vet or the aeroplane

The purpose of your trip largely determines which type of carrier suits best.

In the car

Always secure the crate with the seatbelt or in the boot behind a dog guard. A loose crate can be dangerous for both your pet and the other passengers if you have to brake hard. For smaller dogs, a well-fitted car harness can also be a comfortable and safe alternative for short journeys.

At the vet

For a short visit, a lightweight carrier or crate that closes properly is enough. Lining it with a soft, washable crate mat makes it more comfortable, and help your pet associate the carrier with something positive, for example by occasionally leaving a treat inside at home.

By plane

If you're flying with your pet, strict requirements apply. The crate must usually be IATA-approved: sturdy plastic, metal hinges, ventilation on all sides and a fixable water bowl. Always check the exact dimensions and conditions with the airline before departure.

Checklist for choosing a carrier

• Does my pet have enough room, including standing up straight and turning around?
• Is there enough ventilation on multiple sides?
• Can the carrier be secured safely in the car?
• Is the closure sturdy enough not to open by accident?
• Does the carrier meet the airline's requirements, if you're flying?

Common mistakes when choosing a carrier

• Buying one that's too small because a puppy or kitten "will grow into it": this is uncomfortable and can cause stress.
• Never letting your pet get used to the carrier at home, so it only associates the carrier with a trip to the vet.
• Not checking airline requirements in advance, leading to surprises on the day of departure.
• Not securing the carrier in the car, which can be dangerous during an emergency stop.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use the same carrier for my dog and my cat?

If the size fits, this works fine. Just bear in mind that a cat often prefers a quiet, enclosed space, while a dog benefits more from extra ventilation and sturdiness.

How do I get my pet used to the carrier?

Leave the carrier open at home for a while, add a blanket, and occasionally place a treat inside. This way, your pet learns to see the carrier as a safe place rather than something to fear.

Can a soft carrier go in the aeroplane cabin?

Only for small pets allowed under the seat in the cabin, and only if the airline permits it. For the hold, a hard, IATA-approved crate is almost always required.

Summary

A hard crate offers the most safety in the car and is required for air travel. A soft carrier is light and practical for short trips, while a foldable travel basket sits in between in terms of comfort and sturdiness. Choose based on the purpose of your trip, your pet's size and how often you'll use the carrier.

Conclusion

Whether you're taking a calm cat to the vet or flying with your dog, the right carrier makes travelling considerably safer and less stressful. Take your time to compare the options above, and pick the type that best matches your pet's size and how often you'll be on the road together.

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