Every year, several cats are reported lost as a result of cat carrier cages. Unfortunately, this means cats can be lost far from home, making them harder to find.

Cat cages fail most of all due to human error. The most common failures are the bottom of the cage falling off because not all the clips are fastened, or a door that was not shut properly. So before putting your cat in the cage, triple check the bottom fasteners are snapped shut. Also check the screws are in place and the door latches work properly.

Cardboard boxes make great cat toys, but bad cat carriers. This includes those special cardboard “cat carrier” boxes. They’re not really fit for purpose because cats and even kittens can easily claw and chew their way out of them. Believe me, I’ve seen it happen! Boxes also get wet and soft from “accidents”. But even when they’re bone dry, they can fall apart with the weight and force of a cat.

Soft fabric carriers with mesh windows look instagrammable, but they’re more likely to be an instant fail because cats can claw the mesh open so easily.

Only use a hard carry cage.

Once your cat is in the cage, double check the door latches are securely locked. Carry the cage from the bottom, rather than holding the top handle to help support the weight of the cat. For extra security, walk with the door against your stomach, rather than facing out.

Always have a good, clean cat carry cage set up with a soft towel (a cage for each cat) in case you need to suddenly transport your cat to the vet, or away to safety in a civil emergency.

With a few exceptions, most cats hate travel and they hate being in cages. So while your cat probably won’t be too happy with the journey, I hope these tips will help get you both get there safely!