Whether it’s a nighttime safe haven or a way to safely transport your cat to the vet, a cat crate is almost a must for cat owners. There’s a wide variety of cat crates available, from those designed for air travel to collapsible models that can be popped up almost anywhere. These crates keep your cat safe and contained while giving him a space to call his own.
We’ve reviewed dozens of cat crates as we searched for the best of the best. We examined crates of different types and sizes as well those that include extra features like a litter box or water bowl. We considered storage and cleaning ease in our selection as well. Our list includes the best cat crates the market has to offer. No matter your needs, there’s a cat crate out there for you (and your cat).
The AmazonBasics Folding Metal Dog Crate may have the word “dog” in the name, but it comes in sizes that accommodate cats, too. This crate skips bells and whistles for simplicity and functionality. It comes in a single or double door design and folds float for storage. If you need a crate for nighttime containment, you can buy this model in a size big enough for a litter box.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rate Cat Crates
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Cat Crate Overall | AmazonBasics Folding Metal Dog Crate | 4.7 |
| Best Cat Crate with Litter Box | Pet Fit for Life Collapsible Cat Cage | 4.4 |
| Best Budget Cat Crate | Midwest Homes for Pets Dog Crate | 4.7 |
| Best Travel Cat Crate | Petmate Two-Door Top-Load | 4.5 |
| Best Collapsible Cat Crate | PetLuv Soft-Sided Pet Crate | 4.7 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Cat Crate Overall: AmazonBasics Folding Metal Dog Crate
Dogs and cats need many of the same things when crated, which makes the AmazonBasics Folding Metal Dog Crate an excellent option for cats. The smallest size, a 22 x 13 x 16-inch crate, provides plenty of space, even for large cats. However, if you want to add some extra space, you can choose a larger size to fit multiple cats or let your cat roam.
A sturdy metal wire frame resists rust and holds up to rambunctious cats. We like the mini dividers at the bottom of the crate because they prevent paws from getting caught. The AmazonBasics crate also comes with a removable divider panel. This panel allows you to create two spaces out of one to better utilize the space if you have multiple cats.
Then there’s the cleaning. A removable pan makes it a no brainer. The pan is held in place with a stopper so it won’t fall out while your cat is in the crate. We love that this crate comes in a single or double door design. Cats aren’t always the most cooperative when it comes to crating, and multiple entry options can make it easier for you both. The double door model may also be a good option if you plan to use the crate and divider for more multiple cats. Last but not least, this crate folds down so it’s out of the way when not in use.
Key Features:
- Six (6) sizes
- Removable divider
- Removable plastic pan
- Single or double door design
- Foldable sides and top
Best Cat Crate with Litter Box: Pet Fit for Life Collapsible Cat Cage
A litter box is an absolute necessity for extended stays in a crate. The Pet Fit for Life Collapsible Cat Cage comes with a collapsible litter box and a whole lot more. This soft-sided, collapsible crate can be used in a number of different ways and can really become your cat’s home away from home.
The Pet Fit for Life is made of nylon pulled over a sturdy but fully collapsible metal frame. The mesh door and two mesh side panels keep the crate ventilated, but they can also be covered with flaps if you need to cut down on visual stimulation. It comes in two sizes, the larger of which is big enough for two cats.
This model includes a litter box, obviously, but it also comes with a cat toy, a collapsible water bowl, and four stakes in case you want to use it outside. It’s a great place for your cat to catch some shade while patrolling the backyard. It also comes with a soft, removable floor cover to make things cozy. After all, what cat doesn’t want to lounge in luxury?
Key Features:
- Includes litter box, collapsible water bowl, toy, and four (4) stakes
- Two (2) sizes
- Three (3) mesh panels
- Single entry
- Two (2) carrying handles
Best Budget Cat Crate: Midwest Homes for Pets Dog Crate
The Midwest Homes for Pets Dog Crate comes in an impressive seven sizes. The smallest sizes, of course, are the most suitable for cats. The single or double door design gives you some extra options in how it’s used. You can leave both doors open so your cat can run through as part of his play or only use the second door when your cat is too reluctant to leave. It comes with a divider so you can easily create separate spaces for two cats. In that case, the double doors give you access to both sides.
We love crates with a removable pan like this model because they make clean up so easy. However, this crate gets bonus points for the pan stop that prevents the pan from sliding out. Active cats could cause it to slip, and the pan stop adds an extra level of security.
If you only need a crate once in a while, this foldable model stores flat and compact. It also includes wheels. Even if your cat is lightweight, wheels make the crate easy to move around your home. Overall, the Midwest Homes for Pets Dog Crate provides extra features that make it a versatile addition to your home.
Key Features:
- Single or double door design
- Seven (7) sizes
- Removable divider
- Removable pan with pan stop
- Removable wheels
Best Travel Cat Crate: Petmate Two-Door Top-Load
The Petmate Two-Door Top-Load keeps your cat safe and secure for every adventure. It comes in a 19 or 24-inch model as well as four colors. The dual entry options make it great for visits to the vet because the vet can reach in from the top may be able to do an examination without ever having to take the cat out of the crate. The front door has a single-handed latch opening so you can manage the door with one hand and your cat with the other.
The Petmate also has 360-degree ventilation to save your cat from overheating when temperatures rise. Wingnut and bolt fasteners that hold together the top and bottom pieces make this model airline-approved most of the time. They also allow the top and bottom to be separated for storage. A note of caution: each airline has its own regulations and guidelines for pet travel. Call ahead of time. You don’t want to get there only to find that your cat crate doesn’t meet the specifications.
Finally, an ergonomic handle makes the crate easy to carry to the car or through the airport. However, it’s best used when the crate is empty. If your cat is inside, you might want to carry it with a hand on either end to keep it steady. The added stability will help your cat remain calm.
Petmate Two-Door Top-Load Key Features:
- 360-degree ventilation
- Wingnut and bolt fasteners
- Single-handed door latch
- Front and top load options
- Four (4) colors
Best Collapsible Cat Crate: PetLuv Soft-Sided Pet Crate
The PetLuv Soft-Sided Pet Crate is another option for traveling with your cat. This versatile, collapsible design has far more luxury than you’d expect at first glance. First, we have to talk about the carrying options. The PetLuv folds down in three easy steps and stays folded so it can be carried with padded handles. However, it also comes with two adjustable shoulder straps that allow you to carry it when fully assembled. There are even seat belt loops to secure it in the backseat of your car. If you’re not too excited about carrying it over your shoulder, the PetLuv also comes in a wheeled version.
With a mesh window on every side, your cat gets plenty of ventilation. But, if he needs a little privacy (and security), there are flaps that can be secured over the windows. We like that it has four access panels, including a top-loading door. It can be tough to get your cat in or out of the crate if he’s not fully cooperative. That many openings give him extra freedom and you plenty of options should the fur start to fly.
Heavy-duty, locking zippers, a side storage pocket, and a soft, washable pillow round out the extra perks that come with the PetLuv. If you’re creating a home away from home for your cat, this crate should be at the top of your list.
PetLuv Soft-Sided Pet Crate Key Features:
- Collapsible design
- Carrying handles and adjustable shoulder straps
- Four (4) entry options, including top-loading door
- Heavy-duty locking zippers
- Side storage pocket
- Seat belt loops
Who Should Buy a Cat Crate
Cats are not the easiest animal to transport. If you need to take your cat to the vet or on a trip, you’ll need a way to keep him contained while on the go. But transportation is only one reason you might need a cat crate. They’re also useful if you want to crate your cat when you’re away from home or at night. After all, no one wants to come home to find their curtains shredded or pillows “fluffed.” If you’ve got a troublemaker on your hands, a cat crate can give you some peace of mind.
Cat crates also provide a solution for issues of safety. Kittens, for example, may not have learned where the danger zones are in your house. A crate provides a safe space while you’re away. Other cat owners may need to separate multiple cats so they don’t fight.
Crates can be large or small, spacious or cozy, hard or soft. Before you buy, think about what you need you the cat crate to do. Do you need a crate for shaded shelter in the backyard? Or do you need it to transport your cat to the veterinarian’s office? How you want to use the crate will determine the type that will be best for you and your cat. You’ll also need to keep your cat’s physical attributes and personality in mind. If your cat is large and fluffy, he might need extra space. Other cats may prefer a crate that feels like a sheltered den. You know your cat best, and there are enough crates on the market that you’re sure to find one that makes everyone happy.
If you’re looking for another, specific type of cat carrier or home, then you may want to check out The Best Cat Carriers or The Best Cat Cages.
Important Features to Consider
A cat crate should have a few important features that make it suitable for your needs and lifestyle. Here’s what to consider as you choose:
- Size. The right cat crate size will depend on a number of factors, including your cat’s size, available storage space, whether or not you need to transport your cat in the car or on an airplane. Airplanes, for example, have specific requirements for pet carriers. Usually, that includes metal wingnuts and screws that fasten the top and bottom together. However, you should check before flying to make sure because each airline has its own specifications. If you are leaving your cat in the crate overnight, it needs to be big enough for a litter box, water bowl, and food dish with space for your cat to lay down. However, if you only be using it to take your cat to the vet, a small crate should provide adequate space.
- Type—wire, plastic, or fabric (soft-sided). There are several cat crate design options, with the main three being wire, plastic, or fabric (soft-sided). Wire your cat crates often have a removable pan and collapsible sides. However, if you want your cat to feel more secure, you may need to buy a separate cover because wire creates can leave your cat feeling exposed. Plastic cat crates are common for air travel and car trips. They’re sturdy but require more storage space than a wire or soft-sided model. Cats crates with fabric sides are also used for travel, although they cannot be used on airplanes. These models collapse for easy carrying. Some models include seat belt loops so the crate can be strapped into the car. Any of these models—wire, plastic, or fabric—can be used as an overnight space for your cat as long as it has room for a litter box, water bowl, and food dish.
- Entry options. All cat crates have front entry doors. Models with dual front or top entry can be convenient, especially if your cat gets spooked and hides in the back of the crate. Top-loading crates also allow you to change food and water without your cat escaping. Top-entry crates can take some of the stress out of veterinarian visits as some vets can do exams with your cat still in the crate. Some soft-sided models even have extra storage on three or four sides.
- Carrying options. If you’ll be carrying the cat crate for any amount of time, you’ll want a model with a carrying handle or shoulder straps. Ergonomic designs and adjustable straps are the most comfortable and easy to carry.
- Extras. Cats crates that come with their own litter box, water bowl, or food dish take the all-in-one approach. Some models include collapsible versions of these extras.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you crate a cat during the day?
You can most certainly crate a cat during the day. The crate can keep your cat from destroying your home and may protect him from the danger. Kittens can get into trouble while you’re gone or asleep. If you have more than one cat and they don’t get along, crating them both can keep them from hurting one another. If your cat will be crated overnight, you may want to opt for a wire or soft-sided crate with ventilation on all sides. Some travel crates can feel stuffy even if they have ventilation on all sides.
Can you crate train a cat?
Cats may be more resistant to training than dogs, but they can be crate trained. Try to make the crate a comfortable, inviting place. If the only time he ever uses it is to go to the vet, he could have bad associations with it and scatter as soon as you pull out the crate. Let him explore the crate at his own pleasure by leaving it open and available to him before you need to shut the door. Put a favorite blanket in the back so the crate smells like home. You can also try putting some catnip or spritzing the inside with a pheromone spray.
When it’s time to go, be sure to lift the crate evenly on both sides. If it feels unstable, it could frighten your cat. You may want to cover the crate with a blanket to reduce visual stimulation, which can be overwhelming for a cat. Let your cat come out of the crate when he’s ready. If he leaves of his own free will, it can decrease the chances of him having negative associations with the crate later on.
 How can I keep my cat calm in the crate?
Let your cat get used to the crate long before it’s time to use it. Put a favorite blanket or pillow inside so that it’s comfortable and has a familiar scent. Catnip or a pheromone spray can make it even more appealing. Visual and auditory stimulation may overwhelm your cat, causing him to panic. Put a crate cover or blanket over the crate to darken the surroundings and limit stimulation. Try to keep the crate stable while moving it.
Should I put a blanket in my cat’s crate?
Anything that makes your cat feel more at home and comfortable can go in the crate. That could be a blanket, favorite toy, or a pillow. They make him feel safe and secure, which, in turn, helps him to remain calm and relaxed.
Other Cat Crates We Reviewed
We reviewed the 20 other cat crates. These models did not make our 5 best cat crates list, but they’re still some excellent crates that might be perfect for your cat. To help you compare models, we’ve included information about each one, including a picture.
Travel Cat Crates
The fold-down door allows this carrier to double as a crate when you’re on the road.
Key Features:
- Carrying handle
- Adjustable shoulder strap
- Front or top entry
Cost:Â $29
One for Pets Portable 2-in-1 Double Pet Kennel
If you have two, three, or even four cats, this crate provides room for all.
Key Features:
- Folds down for storage or travel
- Can be used as a single kennel
- Seat belt straps
Cost: $155
Pawdle Dual Expandable Pet Carrier
This model functions as a carrier, but the expandable sides allow you to use it as a crate, too. It’s a great option for frequent travelers who need a cozy place for their cat to hunker down for the night.
Key Features:
- Two (2) expandable sides
- Two (2) colors
- Carrying handles and shoulder straps
Collapsible Cat Crates
This soft-sided, collapsible model has durable steel tubing so it’s sturdy but lightweight.
Key Features:
- Carrying handles and shoulder straps
- Two (2) door entry
- Four (4) mesh panels
Cost:Â $50
This crate is specifically designed to keep your cat contained while in the car. It straps in place and provides mesh panel ventilation.
Key Features:
- Seat belt straps
- Five (5)Â mesh panels for ventilation
- Carrying handles
Cost:Â $50
This extra-large crate provides plenty of space for lounging or getting comfortable for an all-night stay. It comes with a collapsible food bowl, litter box, and cat toys.
Key Features:
- Pop up design
- Collapsible litter box, food bowl, and two (2) cat toys
- Flexible steel frame with two (2) mesh side windows
Cost:Â $49
EliteField 3-Door Soft Dog Crate
This spacious crate folds down for quick travel or storage.
Key Features:
- Five (5) sizes
- Fourteen (14) colors
- Mesh ventilation on all sides
Cost:Â $43
Simple but effective describe this cate crate, which includes a removable fleece mat.
Key Features:Â
- Zipper locks
- Two (2) mesh panels
- Can be used with manufacturer’s litter box (sold separately)
Cost: $45
Pet Magasin Hard Cover Collapsible Cat Carrier
This unique, hard-shell design provides 360-degree ventilation but collapses down for easy storage.
Key Features:
- Hard top and base with soft sides
- Mesh door panel
- Carrying handle
Cost:Â $26
SportPet Designs Indoor/Outdoor Crate for Pets
This crate creates shaded shelter outside, an escape when company arrives, or a home away from home when you travel.
Key Features:
- Comes with machine-washable pad
- Seat belt loops
- Mesh side and door panels
Cost: $30
topPets Portable Soft Pet Carrier
The washable fabric and single-piece design make this model a great option for cat owners who want an indoor/outdoor crate.
Key Features:
- Removable pad
- Carrying handles
- Four (4) mesh panel ventilation
Cost:Â $36
This crate folds down for easy storage and includes buckles to keep it folded when you travel.
Key Features:
- Eight (8) sizes
- Carrying handles
- Carrying case
Plastic Cat Crates
AmazonBasics Two-Door, Top-Load Pet Travel Carrier
This inexpensive model works well for trips to the vet. It has 360-degree ventilation and has a one-handed latch on the door.
Key Features:
- Two (2) sizes
- Front and top entry (top door opens to the right or left)
- Includes additional screws to secure top and bottom
Cost:Â $32
Midwest Homes for Pets Spree Travel Carrier
This simple carrier provides ventilation and safety while your cat goes from here to there.
Key Features:
- Two (2) sizes
- Three (3) colors
- Built-in carrying handle
Cost: $18
Petmate Ruffmaxx Outdoor Dog Kennel
This durable crate features wingnuts and bolts, making it appropriate for most airlines.
Key Features:
- Six (6) sizes
- Carrying handle
- One-handed door latch
Cost:Â $23
This distinct design provides plenty of ventilation and a built-in carrying handle.
Key Features:
- Top storage compartment
- Water or food bowl
- Excellent ventilation
Large Cat Crates
This large crate works for overnight or all-day crating. We like the wheels because they give it some portability within your home.
Key Features:
- Removable pan
- Three (3) tiers
- Two (2) doors
Cost:Â $85
This model borders on cat condo, but if you need to leave your cat locked up all day, why not give him somewhere fun to play?
Key Features:
- Three (3) tier
- Includes hammock and two (2) metal ladders
- Three (3) front opening doors
Cost:Â $80
Prevue Pet Products Deluxe Cat Home
If you need a crate that’s a more permanent fixture in your home, this model provides lots of space and comes with a cozy hammock.
Key Features:
- Two-finger locking latch
- Washable platform pads
- Rolling casters
Cost:Â $115
Give your cat ample space to lounge and relax while he stays safely contained.
Key Features:
- Two (2) tiers
- Two (2) swing-open doors
- Seven (7) wheels for better portability
Cost:Â $75
