7 Best Cat Backpacks — Taylor Swift Would Approve
From futuristic space capsules to performance sportswear-style gear.
Share Article
You can thank Taylor Swift for singlehandedly starting the cat backpack trend. Of all the memorable scenes in Miss Americana, cat moms will never forget watching her board a private jet with her Scottish fold Olivia Benson ensconced in a leather backpack, glaring at the cameraman from a spacesuit-style bubble porthole. Carriersopens in a new tab have competition.
If seeing your cat pressed up against the window on a sunny day is any indication, they too may enjoy the great outdoors — except it can be a complicated quest when you’re dealing with an animal that doesn’t come when called. If leashing up your cat results in a sort of creeping army crawl because the sudden exposure is too much, too soon, then a breathable backpack is an option to consider.
Not only are cat backpacks safe (so long as you zip them up), most cats are actually cool with them because squishing themselves into small spaces is kind of their thing. Just make sure it’s well-ventilated. And get them used to it at home — by leaving it out for them to crawl into on their own volition — before packing them up and heading to the airport at once. Cat backpacks are also typically TSA-approved...in case you don’t have a PJ.
Btw, our editors (and their pets) picked out these products. They’re always in stock at the time we publish, but there’s a chance they’ll sell out. If you do buy through our links, we may earn a commission. (We’ve got a lot of toys to buy over here, you know?)
Caitlin Stall-Paquet
Caitlin Stall-Paquet is a writer and editor who collaborates with Elle Canada, The Walrus, Xtra, and The Globe and Mail. She lives in Montreal with her husband and cat, Jeff. Follow her on Instagram @caitlinstallpopens in a new tab.