In this article we are going to answer the question of “are cat backpacks safe?“, and a guide on how to use them correctly. The quick answer to the question is, yes, cat backpacks are safe. What exactly are they?
For those of you who have never seen one, a cat backpack is similar to a regular backpack, but with an opening or window which allows your cat to look out of. They are available in all different kinds of sizes, shapes, and colors. Some are even completely transparent all over. Others look like space capsules.
Are Cat Backpacks Safe?
We briefly answered this question above, but let’s go into a little more detail. They are actually very safe and are designed specifically with a cat’s safety in mind. You cat can access from a top opening and the inside features safety straps to secure your kitty safely inside to prevent them escaping or getting injured.
You may be asking yourself, how could a cat enjoy being in such a small cramped up space, but you would be surprised how much they actually like this. In my experience I’ve witness cats squeeze into the tiniest cardboard box and fall asleep in there. Cat’s actually feel safe and secure in a small confined spaces.
How Do I Know If My Cat Doesn’t Like The Backpack?
Although we said cat’s usually like confined spaces, all cat’s have very different personalities and some may be a bit frightened. You may also even catch your cat on a bad day and just doesn’t want to get inside the backpack. So how do you know if your cat doesn’t like the backpack?
When cat’s don’t like something, they are very straight to the point and easy to read. The obvious signs of clawing at the backpack and a lot of meowing will indicate that they are not happy. If this is the case then you should take them out straight away. You shouldn’t really just put them in there without preparation anyway. There is a correct procedure to help them get used to the backpack, and this will be covered in the next section.
How Long Will It Take For My Cat To Get Used To The Backpack?
All cat’s are completely different. Some will take a few months, some will take a few weeks, and others will just take to it straight away. If your cat is frightened, just always remember to take it slow and be patient
How To Get Your Cat Used To The Backpack
To carry on what we said above, you will first need to go through a procedure to help get your cat used to the backpack. Here is how it is done:
#1 Open The Bag With Your Cat
Once you have ordered you backpack and it arrives, it’s a good idea to open the package in front of your cat. As you’ve probably noticed in your experience, cat’s are very curious creatures and watch everything that you do.
Opening in front of your cat will allow them to get familiar with it right from the start. You may even be lucky and have a cat who wants to wonder inside the backpack straight away. Some cat’s will take to it faster than others.
#2 Treat it Like A Toy and Put Their Treats In It
The best way to get them used to the backpack is to put treats inside so they will have to venture inside to retrieve them. The key to this step is must do this every single day. Repeat this process every day for as long as necessary until your cat is completely comfortable with the backpack.
Another thing you can use is your cat’s toys. It’s always a good idea to have play time with your cat on a daily basis, as this will give them the stimulation they need, as well as a great bonding session for the two of you. If you incorporate the backpack into the play session with your cat’s toys, this will be a win win situation for both you and your cat.
#3 Leave It Open Near Where They Love Hanging Out
Cat’s always have their favourite spots in your house where they love to sleep or just chill out. If you leave the backpack in the favorite spots, this will allow them to get comfortable with the presence of the bag. Just make sure to leave the backpack open which will allow them to have a wonder inside if they wish to explore it.
#4 Their First Trip Should Be Enjoyable
At this stage your cat should now be very familiar and comfortable with the bag. It’s now time to progress on to the next step which is to take your cat on a short trip. It’s important that the very first time of taking them out is a very short trip. This ensures that if they do get very anxious and frightened, you are not far from home.
It’s also important to make sure that the first trip is something enjoyable, and not a trip to the vet. If you do this then they will associate the backpack as something negative. This will then make it very hard for them to get back in it again. When you have done a few short trips with your cat and they are fine, it is then time to take them on a progressively longer journeys.
Do not rush into anything, just take it slowly. If you cat reacts badly, just take a step back and then build up again. Some cat’s just never take to traveling. If this is the case, do not force them into anything, just respect their wishes.
Tips For Using The Backpack
#1 Walk Normally
When you are walking, you never want to make any erratic movements such as running or jumping. This will just frighten or worst still, hurt your cat. Just walk at pace that you would usually walk at in your every day life. Just always be aware that your cat is inside there.
#2 Let Your Cat See Outside
Cat backpacks come in all kinds of different colors and designs. The best ones you can get are the ones that have a clear window or the the ones that are completely transparent. This will allow your cat to see outside. If you continue the reading the rest of this post, I will show you our best cat backpack recommendations.
#3 Never Leave Your Cat Unattended
One thing you must always remember is to never leave your kitty unattended at anytime.
#4 It’s Okay to Feed Them Inside
Don’t worry if your cat has an accident inside while you are on a journey, this can easily be cleaned. It’s also okay to feed them whilst they are in there. Just remember to take your cat’s favorite tasty treats, just encase they get hungry.
#5 Let Them Stretch Their Legs
Once your cat is used to the backpack, you’ll find that they are more than fine with sitting inside of there for several hours. If you are on longer journey’s, make sure you allow them to come out of the backpack now and again for them to stretch there legs. If you do not do this then they may end up hating the backpack.
It’s also advised to have a cat leash with you on your journey, the last thing you want is for them to escape. If you know you are going on a journey with your cat, it’s a great idea to also do some kind of leash training. You can pick up a leash from Amazon very cheaply.
#6 Never Put More Than One Cat Inside
Never put more than one cat inside the backpack. They are designed for carrying one pet only.
How To Get Cat Pee Out of a Backpack?
If you are out with your cat in the backpack, it’s more than likely that they will need to go to the toilet, especially if you are on a long journey. If they have an accident inside the backpack, do not worry as it’s easy enough to clean out.
The best thing to do is to use a half vinegar, half water mixture and then air it out for a while. Wait around one day and then rinse the backpack out. If after this it still smells inside, just repeat this process until it is completely clean.
What is the best carrier for cats? Our recommendations
If you are wondering which backpack to choose, here are some of our recommendations:
- PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack: More info here
- Lollimeow Pet Carrier Backpack, Bubble Backpack: More info here
- ANXUAN Portable Pet Carrier Backpack: More info here
- PETRIP Cat Carrier Cat Backpack: More info here
Conclusion
Hope you enjoyed this post and your question of f “are cat backpacks safe?“has been answered. Cat backpacks are very safe, and your cat me even love going on a journey. If you have experience taking your cat out in one, leave your comments and stories below.
