Are cat backpacks safe? This is the question that people who travel with cats will ask themselves when they are looking for ways to transport their kitty while enjoying life. Make sure you read this article on how to find the best cat backpack for your feline friend.
Are Cat Backpacks Safe?
They are designed with your cat’s safety in mind. The top opening allows you to put your feline inside and the safety straps secure your pet safely inside and prevent them from escaping.
It’s hard to believe that cats would enjoy being in a small cramped space. However, most cats enjoy being in small spaces. All you have to do is pay attention to some of the places that your cat loves hiding while playing at home.
You’ll realize that they do indeed love small confined spaces. You can also read this article to find out why cats like to squeeze into tiny spaces.
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What Is A Backpack To Carry Your Cat?
Basically, it is a pack or rucksack with an opening or window at the top, that allows them to look around and be comfortable. They come in several different shapes, sizes, and brands.
You’ll find some that look like a space capsule, bubbles, or clear or are completely transparent to help your cat see outside.
They are designed with a safety strap and buckle to provide protection while carrying your feline friend.
Are Cat Backpacks Cruel?
The short answer is no, it not any different than carrying your cat in a carrier or walking them on a harness and leash.
Once Fluffy gets used it, they will actually look forward to being inside of it. They are well-ventilated for optimal airflow.
Most popular brands like Fat and Texsens provide a soft lining inside, so your kitty will be comfortable.
Of course, you wouldn’t want to leave your cat inside forever. They are designed to help make traveling convenient so you can enjoy the outdoor experiences.
How to Get Your Cat Used to The Backpack
Introducing your cat to the pet carrier backpack will require some time and patience. However, if you follow these steps below, you and your kitty can enjoy traveling with her on your back.
Open The Bag With Your Cat
As soon as your package arrives from Amazon or you bring it home from your favorite pet store, open it up in front of your cat.
Cats are curious creatures and most likely they’ll want to go inside and explore. Do whatever you can to make them feel comfortable around it and see if they’ll go inside.
Treat it Like A Toy and Put Their Treats In It
Introduce the backpack to Fluffy every day and treat it like a toy. Put treats inside and get them to jump inside to retrieve the treats and toys.
Keep repeating this process daily until they feel comfortable jumping through the hole and running and out of the bag.
Leave their toys and some treats lying around in the bag.
Leave It Open Near Where They Love Hanging Out
Cats are creatures of habit and the best thing you can do is leave it open lying around in their favorite space.
This will give them time to get comfortable with the presence of the bag. Make sure you leave it open so they can go inside if they are feeling curious.
Their First Trip Should Be Enjoyable (Not The Vet!)
Once they are comfortable with the bag, try putting it on your back and taking them for a short trip. I’d recommend going for a walk around the block just to get them used to it. Repeat this for a few days or until they are comfortable inside.
Whatever you do, avoid making the first trip to the vet. Otherwise, they will associate negative feelings with the backpack.
When they are comfortable inside with it sitting on your back, you are ready for a longer trip. Remember, some cats will never enjoy traveling, no matter what you do,
If they hate being inside the rucksack, do not force them. Listen to your cat and they will tell you whether or not they are enjoying the experience.
Tips for Carrying A Cat In A Backpack
Walk Normally
Even if your cat is used to being inside, you never want to run, jump or make any type of movements that can hurt or frighten your cat.
Walking at a normal or brisk pace will be fine. Just make sure that you always remember that your four-legged friend is inside.
Let Your Cat See Outside
Cats are curious creatures, I’d recommend getting one that has a window, clear bubble or is transparent so your cat can see outside.
The PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack is perfect for hiking, traveling or just spending time outside. This is the one that I’d recommend because it has tons of reviews on Amazon and is designed with a reinforced structure to prevent from collapsing with your kitty inside.
It has a window that allows your cat to see what’s going on outside.
Never Leave Them Unattended
When carrying a cat in a backpack, never leave it unattended anywhere. Always keep it with you or keep it near you.
Remember, your furbaby is inside and they are relying on you to protect them.
It’s Okay to Feed Them Inside
You don’t have to worry about your kitty has an accident inside the backpack. If you’re on a long trip or just spending time outdoors, it’s okay to feed them a treat.
Let Them Stretch Their Legs
Most cats will be fine sitting inside the bag for several hours. However, if you are on a long trip or adventure, make sure that you take them out and let them stretch their legs.
You don’t want them sitting inside a tight cramped place for too long, otherwise, they could end up hating being transported using this method.
Never Put More Than One Cat Inside
If you have two cats, avoid putting more than one cat inside, if it was designed for carrying one pet.
It’s important to make sure that your cat has plenty of space. Pay attention to the dimensions of your bag to ensure it’s big enough for your feline friend.
How Long Does It Take to Get A Cat Used to It?
Unfortunately, ever feline is different and some will adjust to the bag quicker than others.
As a pet owner, you’ll have to just keep introducing your cat to the bag until they are comfortable around it.
It’s no different than training them with a leash and harness. It takes time, but with the right positive reinforcement training, you can get your kitty used to the new bag.
How Cut Will My Cat Look In A Backpack?
Your kitty will look adorable sitting on your back inside of their rucksack. If you’re in a new place, it won’t be surprising if you get approached by other cat lovers wanting to know if they can pet your four-legged friend.
The best part is that the more trips you take with your cat sitting inside, the more they’ll get used it and actually look forward to your next adventure.
Bottom Line
If you travel a lot with Fluffy or spend time outdoors, it’s a great way to carry them around outside the house safely with you.
The best part is that these come in several different styles and some are even airline compliant.