Crates for Cats

There are hundreds of choices of crates to choose from for your cat, and all of them have their benefits and drawbacks. When it comes to crates for your feline, they can be broken down into four different categories: hard crates such as plastic, soft crates made of mesh or material, wire crates, and disposable crates. Pet owners should consider what the crate will be used for and how much room the cat will need before investing in one.

  1. Hard Crates

    • The most widely used type of crate is the hard crate. These crates are generally lightweight and made of a sturdy plastic, making them durable and long-lasting. Hard crates are affordable and come in many sizes and colors. Most hard crates are made with a carrying handle on top to make transporting your cat easier. Hard crates are extremely versatile and can be used for travel and for putting your cat in a safe place when company comes to visit. Hard crates are also the only type of crates pet owners can use when transporting their cat on commercial airlines. Most major general merchandise retailers carry hard crates, but you will find the best selection at your local pet store.

    Soft Fabric Crates

    • Soft crates are best used for transporting your cat to veterinarian appointments or other excursions outside the home. Some pet owners use them inside the home to keep the cat safe when guests visit. One of the main disadvantages of using a soft crate is that they do not provide much safety during transport. Most soft crates are collapsible for easy storage and are the lightest type of crate you can purchase. Soft crates are made of waterproof canvas or fabric with built-in mesh or screen windows and zippered doors. Small, soft crates are also come in purse-like shapes with fashionable patterns and colors for pet owners who want to take their cat with them and be stylish at the same time. You can find a large selection of soft crates available at your local pet store and at online pet retailers.

    Wire Crates

    • Wire crates are a good choice for pet owners who need to keep their cat in one place. Due to their weight, they are best to keep in one place. Wire crates create an area for your cat to enjoy the outdoors while keeping wildlife or stray animals at a safe distance. These crates are extremely durable and most models can be folded flat for easy storage. High-quality models can be more expensive than other styles of crates but will last a long time. Pet owners can buy covers and shades that fit over the crate or snap onto it to give your cat privacy or protection from the elements when it is outdoors.

    Disposable Crates

    • Disposable crates are mainly used by pet stores, veterinarians and animal shelters for brief trips. When a kitten or cat is purchased or adopted, they are sent to their new homes in disposable crates. This type of crate is an affordable type of containment for many businesses that work with cats. Even though these crates are made of heavy-duty cardboard, they are not made to last and don't hold up to water spills, cat accidents or rain. Disposable crates are made specifically for transport, and don't leave much room for your cat to stretch out so they shouldn't be used for extended periods of time. Another problem with these crates is that they can't be thoroughly cleaned.