Navigating the world with a cat can sometimes feel like a covert operation. The mere sight of a traditional carrier can send some felines into a frenzy, associating it with dreaded vet visits or unsettling car journeys away from their beloved home. While essential for travel, these carriers often fall short for everyday moments when you simply want to keep your cat close. Enter the Cat Sling carrier, a game-changer for feline companionship.
Inspired by baby slings, a cat sling carrier is a soft, fabric pouch worn over your shoulder, designed to cradle your cat comfortably against your body. Less cumbersome than bulky backpacks or traditional carriers, a sling provides a secure and intimate way for your cat to travel, offering the comforting closeness they crave.
At a Glance: Top Cat Sling Carriers
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Padded Straps | Enhanced comfort for you |
| Security Features | Keeps your cat safe and contained |
| Adjustable Straps | Customizable fit for various body types |
| Durable Materials | Long-lasting and supportive |
| Storage Pockets | Convenience for carrying essentials |
Want a quick recommendation? Here’s a sneak peek at our top picks, with detailed reviews to follow:
Overall Best: SlowTon Hands-Free Breathable Cat Sling Carrier
Fan Favorite: TOMKAS Pet Sling Carrier
Budget Pick: Jekeno Adjustable Strap Cat Sling Carrier
Most Comfortable: YUDODO Pet Sling Carrier
Best For Large Cats: Alfie Pet Amos Pet Front Sling Carrier
Why Trust Our Recommendations?
Author Kate Barrington holding a cat in a cat sling carrier
At Cats.com, our passion is connecting cat owners with the highest quality products available. We understand the unique bond you share with your cat and strive to recommend items that enhance their well-being and your shared experiences. Our commitment to rigorous testing and unbiased reviews has made us a trusted resource for cat lovers.
To compile this guide to the best cat sling carriers, we invested countless hours in research, exploring the diverse needs of cat owners and the features that truly matter. We didn’t just rely on online descriptions; we purchased and hands-on tested a range of popular cat slings. Our evaluation process focused on practical aspects: ease of use, comfort for both cat and owner, security, and overall quality.
Our firsthand experiences, combined with thorough research, have led us to confidently recommend the following cat sling carriers as the best options available, ensuring both you and your feline companion will be satisfied.
When is a Cat Sling Carrier Your Best Bet?
Cat peeking out from a cat sling carrier worn outdoors
Cat sling carriers are more than just a trendy accessory; they are a practical solution for various situations:
1. Outdoor Adventures for Hesitant Explorers
Introducing your cat to the great outdoors can be enriching, but leash training isn’t always a walk in the park. Building confidence and comfort with a harness and leash takes time and patience. For cats hesitant about venturing outside, a sling carrier can be a gentle introduction to new sights and sounds.
A cat sling provides a secure and controlled way to expose your cat to outdoor environments. They can experience the world from the safety of the sling, gradually desensitizing them to outdoor stimuli. Many slings allow your cat to peek their head out, offering a view of their surroundings while minimizing the risk of escape.
Furthermore, slings are incredibly convenient for transitioning from car to destination, such as vet appointments. While traditional carriers are paramount for car safety, a sling offers a lighter, more manageable option for navigating from the parking lot to the clinic, all while keeping your nervous cat securely close. It also provides a protective barrier between you or veterinary staff and a potentially anxious cat’s claws.
2. Keeping Clingy Companions Close
While cats are often portrayed as independent creatures, many are incredibly affectionate and thrive on closeness to their humans. Some cats, especially certain breeds, simply want to be by your side constantly. While heartwarming, this can be impractical when you need your hands free. A cat sling carrier solves this purr-dilemma.
A sling allows you to indulge your cat’s desire for closeness without hindering your daily tasks. Whether you’re doing chores around the house, working from home, or simply relaxing, your cat can be contentedly nestled in their sling, feeling secure and loved. This is particularly beneficial for clingy breeds like Siamese or Sphynx cats. Additionally, slings offer comfort and mobility for cats with physical limitations, allowing them to stay involved and move around with you without pain or strain.
Cat slings are also invaluable when your cat is in unfamiliar environments or feeling anxious. Keeping them in a sling prevents them from potential self-injury or accidental harm to others, and importantly, prevents them from bolting and hiding or escaping in stressful situations.
3. Emergency Preparedness
While we hope to never face emergencies, being prepared is crucial for responsible pet ownership. In situations like natural disasters or sudden evacuations, time is of the essence. Evacuating quickly, often with limited carrying capacity, becomes paramount. Leaving your cat behind is unthinkable, but lugging a bulky traditional carrier might not be feasible.
In emergency scenarios, a cat sling carrier becomes an essential tool. It allows you to carry your cat securely and hands-free, keeping them close and safe while you navigate challenging circumstances. When used correctly, a sling ensures your cat’s safety and security during stressful evacuations.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Cat slings are designed for supervised use only. Never leave your cat unattended in a sling. Their safety relies on your proximity and responsible use. Slings are not designed for car travel; traditional carriers are essential for vehicle safety.
Looking for a traditional carrier for car travel? Check out our top 12 picks for the best traditional cat carriers here.
5 Key Features to Look for in a Cat Sling Carrier
Your cat’s safety and comfort are paramount when choosing a carrier. While cat slings are a different style than traditional carriers, certain crucial features ensure you select the best option:
1. Appropriate Sizing and Weight Capacity
Many sling carriers are designed to accommodate both small dogs and cats. Always prioritize checking the weight limit of the sling to ensure it’s suitable for your cat. Manufacturers often provide weight guidelines, which are the most reliable indicator of appropriate sizing. While measurements of the sling’s dimensions might be provided, weight capacity is the primary factor.
Most cat slings are designed for the average house cat, around 10 pounds. However, weight capacity is not solely determined by size; construction plays a vital role. Slings constructed from thicker, more rigid materials will offer greater support for heavier cats than those made from soft, flexible cotton.
2. Adjustable and Comfortable Straps
Unlike hard-sided carriers with handles, slings feature a single strap worn across your shoulder. This strap is critical for both your comfort and your cat’s security. Look for straps that are well-constructed with reinforced stitching to prevent stretching or tearing over time. The shoulder section of the strap should be wide to distribute your cat’s weight evenly, preventing digging and discomfort.
Crucially, the strap should be adjustable. Adjustability allows you to customize the sling’s fit to your body, finding the most comfortable carrying position. You can adjust the strap to have your cat’s weight rest against your hip or closer to your side, depending on your preference. Most cat slings feature a crossbody design for optimal weight distribution and security.
3. Essential Security Measures
Cat slings inherently offer a degree of security. The fabric pouch naturally conforms around your cat, and their body weight pulls the open sides inwards, creating a snug enclosure. For calm and relaxed cats, this might suffice. However, for anxious or excitable cats, additional security features are essential to prevent escapes.
Many reputable cat sling carriers incorporate a safety strap or buckle inside the pouch. This might be a short strap with a buckle designed to loop around your cat’s collar or a hook to attach to their collar’s D-ring. Ensure this safety strap is short enough to prevent your cat from jumping out of the sling even if they manage to partially escape the pouch opening.
4. Quality and Durable Construction
A reliable cat sling is crafted from high-quality materials designed specifically for pet use. For heavier cats or those prone to fussing, opt for durable materials like nylon or reinforced canvas. These materials offer greater strength and resistance to wear and tear. Softer materials like cotton or fleece are suitable for kittens, smaller cats, or cats known for their calm demeanor.
Beyond material choice, examine the sling’s construction. Double-stitched seams significantly enhance durability, preventing rips and fraying. The shoulder strap should be securely attached to the sling body, and any safety straps or buckles should be robust and able to withstand pulling or pressure.
5. Comfort and Style Considerations
While most cat slings share a similar pouch-and-crossbody-strap design, variations in comfort and style exist. Prioritize your cat’s comfort as well as your own when selecting a sling. A padded shoulder strap is a must-have for your comfort, especially for longer periods of wear. Consider slings with a padded or slightly structured bottom panel to provide additional support and distribute your cat’s weight more evenly.
Other design elements enhance both comfort and practicality. Breathable materials, such as mesh panels, are beneficial, especially in warmer weather, to prevent your cat from overheating while nestled against your body. External storage pockets are a valuable addition, providing convenient space for treats, waste bags, a small water dish, or even your cat’s leash.
Our Top Picks: The Best Cat Sling Carriers on the Market
Having outlined the key features to consider, let’s delve into our top recommendations for the best cat sling carriers, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses based on our hands-on testing and evaluation:
#1 Overall Best: SlowTon Hands-Free Breathable Cat Sling Carrier
SlowTon Hands-Free Breathable Cat Sling Carrier
Buy on Chewy | Buy on Amazon
Key Features:
- Materials: Cotton
- Size Options: 4 sizes
- Weight Limit: 15 lbs
- Adjustable Strap: Yes
- Safety Features: Safety strap, button closures
- Price: $24.95 (Price may vary)
When choosing a cat sling, your comfort is almost as important as your cat’s. A sling that digs into your shoulder will lead to constant readjustments, potentially unsettling your feline passenger. The SlowTon Hands-Free Breathable Cat Sling Carrier prioritizes your comfort with a thickly padded, adjustable shoulder strap, filled with sponge-like material for superior cushioning compared to other models.
During testing, while intending to evaluate the breathable mesh version, a water-resistant fabric model was received instead. The fabric was remarkably lightweight and soft, reminiscent of athletic wear. While the water-resistance is a practical bonus, the thinness of the material raised concerns about structural support, suggesting the mesh version might offer a more supportive feel overall.
The SlowTon sling utilizes button closures instead of snaps or buckles. The buttons felt more secure than the snap closures on the TOMKAS sling but proved slightly fiddly to manage single-handedly while simultaneously keeping a cat secure in the sling.
Functionally, this sling is largely comparable to other reviewed models. The water-resistant fabric is a nice touch, although the breathable mesh version remains intriguing. The zippered storage pocket is a welcome convenience.
Pros:
- Exceptionally padded shoulder strap for superior comfort
- Convenient zippered storage pocket
- Available in a range of sizes and colors
Cons:
- Button closures can be challenging to manage with one hand
- May offer limited support for larger, heavier cats
#2 Fan Favorite: TOMKAS Pet Sling Carrier
TOMKAS Pet Sling Carrier
Buy on Amazon
Key Features:
- Materials: Polyester
- Size Options: One size
- Weight Limit: 10 lbs
- Adjustable Strap: Yes
- Safety Features: Leash hook, snap closures
- Price: $26.99 (Price may vary)
Boasting over 20,000 ratings on Amazon, the TOMKAS Pet Sling Carrier is a clear crowd-pleaser. Priced moderately around $20-$30, this sling comes in a variety of reversible colors, offering a stylish touch.
The TOMKAS sling is crafted from a very soft polyester fabric. While synthetic in feel, cat hair didn’t cling to it as readily as some other materials tested, a definite plus for pet owners. The sling felt well-constructed, and the adjustable shoulder strap was comfortably wide. The inclusion of a zippered front pocket for treats or small essentials is a practical detail.
Despite its many positive attributes, the TOMKAS sling isn’t the top choice for extended use or travel. The soft materials, while comfortable to the touch, lack significant structure, potentially making it less comfortable for your cat during longer periods in the sling.
Security is another point to consider. While equipped with a leash hook and closures at both ends of the opening, the closures are snap fasteners. These snaps may be more prone to accidental opening compared to the buckle closures found on other slings like the Jekeno model.
Pros:
- Reversible design with a handy zippered storage pocket
- Polyester material resists cat hair clinging
- Comfortable, adjustable shoulder strap
Cons:
- Not recommended for cats exceeding 10 pounds
- Snap closures may be less secure than buckles
#3 Budget Pick: Jekeno Adjustable Strap Cat Sling Carrier
Jekeno Adjustable Strap Cat Sling Carrier
Buy on Amazon
Key Features:
- Materials: Cotton
- Size Options: One size
- Weight Limit: 13 lbs
- Adjustable Strap: Yes
- Safety Features: Leash hook, buckle closures
- Price: $19.99 (Price may vary)
Many cat sling carriers share similar designs and are generally budget-friendly. The Jekeno Adjustable Strap Cat Sling Carrier stands out as our budget pick, offering an appealing design, a slightly higher weight capacity, and an adjustable shoulder strap, all at a very accessible price point. The breathable cotton material is machine-washable for added convenience.
The differences between the Jekeno and the TOMKAS sling are subtle. The Jekeno is made from soft cotton, giving it a nicer feel, although it might attract cat hair more readily than polyester. Both feature adjustable shoulder straps, leash hooks, and opening closures.
A key advantage of the Jekeno sling is its buckle closures. Buckles feel significantly more secure than the snaps on the TOMKAS sling. There’s minimal risk of accidental opening, even if your cat shifts or moves around in the sling.
Overall, the Jekeno sling seems well-made for its price. However, like many slings of this style, it might not be ideal for prolonged use unless your cat is content to curl up and relax. It supports cats up to 13 pounds, slightly more than the TOMKAS, but neither offers substantial structured support in the sling’s base.
Pros:
- Six reversible color options for personal style
- Budget-friendly and affordable
- Wide, adjustable shoulder strap with secure buckles
Cons:
- Limited support for larger cats
- May attract more cat hair than polyester options
#4 Most Comfortable: YUDODO Pet Sling Carrier
YUDODO Pet Sling Carrier
Buy on Amazon
Key Features:
- Materials: Leather, mesh
- Size Options: Small, Medium, Large
- Weight Limit: 14 lbs
- Adjustable Strap: Yes
- Safety Features: Leash hook, fixed zipper closure
- Price: $23.99 (Price may vary)
Upon unboxing and examining the five cat slings tested, the YUDODO Pet Sling Carrier impressed with its noticeably robust construction. The materials felt thicker and more substantial, giving the sling more structure. The shoulder strap is wide and comfortable, enhancing the overall carrying experience.
Marketed as a small dog carrier, this sling proved equally suitable for smaller cats. It was a perfect fit for a 7-pound cat, providing a snug and secure feeling. For cats over 7 pounds, sizing up to a Medium is recommended.
The standout feature of the YUDODO sling is its enhanced security. It’s designed as an enclosed carrier, with a zipper closure to fully encase your cat. The neck area features a drawstring closure, allowing you to adjust the opening size to comfortably fit your cat’s head. A Velcro strap secures the drawstring and covers the zipper for added peace of mind.
One consideration is sizing limitations. While advertised for small dogs, it worked well for cats in our testing. However, getting a cat into the zippered enclosure can be slightly tricky, particularly for long-haired breeds. Care is needed to ensure fur doesn’t get caught in the zipper during closure.
Pros:
- Exceptionally well-made from thick, durable materials
- Packed with security features to prevent escapes
- Wide, comfortable shoulder strap
Cons:
- Sizing may be limiting for larger cats
- Zipper closure can be slightly challenging to use with cats
#5 Best for Large Cats: Alfie Pet Amos Pet Front Sling Carrier
Alfie Pet Amos Pet Front Sling Carrier
Buy on Amazon
Key Features:
- Materials: Cotton, mesh
- Size Options: One size
- Weight Limit: 15 pounds
- Adjustable Strap: Yes
- Safety Features: Safety strap, mesh closure
- Price: $57.99 (Price may vary)
The Alfie Pet Amos Pet Front Sling Carrier stands out as the most unique design among those tested. Instead of a traditional shoulder bag style, this carrier is worn on the front of your body, akin to a reversed backpack.
Initial unpacking of the Alfie carrier led to slight strap confusion, quickly resolved upon closer inspection. It features adjustable nylon straps that cross behind your back, while extra-wide shoulder straps distribute weight across your front. This front-carry design is a primary reason for recommending the Alfie sling for larger cats.
Another feature making it ideal for larger felines is the inclusion of a solid board insert. When in use, the carrier takes on a rectangular shape, and the removable board creates a firm base, providing significant support for your cat’s weight.
In terms of security, the Alfie front sling rivals the YUDODO carrier. The front-carry design feels inherently more secure than a side sling; your cat’s weight pressing against the shoulder straps helps keep the top opening closed.
For added security, the Alfie sling incorporates a drawstring mesh closure, allowing you to fully enclose your cat or leave it partially open for them to peek out. It also includes a safety strap, a common feature in reputable carriers.
Pros:
- Front sling design distributes weight well, ideal for larger cats
- Adjustable back and wide shoulder straps for comfortable wear
- Includes a solid board insert for enhanced support
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to other slings
- Can be slightly awkward to put on initially
Frequently Asked Questions about Cat Sling Carriers
Are cat sling carriers safe for cats?
Yes, when used correctly, cat sling carriers are a safe and effective way to transport your cat. Choose a sling made from soft yet durable materials with sturdy seams, an adjustable shoulder strap, and an internal safety leash or harness attachment. Always supervise your cat while in the sling.
Do cats generally like being in slings?
Cat acceptance of slings varies. Most cats will feel secure and comfortable being close to your body. The key is to choose an appropriately sized sling and gradually acclimate your cat to it. Positive reinforcement, like treats and praise, can encourage acceptance.
Can I use a baby sling for my cat?
No, it’s not recommended to use a baby sling for a cat. Baby slings are designed for human infant anatomy and don’t properly fit cats. Crucially, baby slings are not designed with cat safety in mind, particularly preventing escapes. Cat slings are specifically designed to support your cat’s weight and incorporate safety features like internal leashes to prevent escapes, which are not present in baby slings. Use a product designed specifically for pets to ensure your cat’s safety and comfort.
