The Five Best Cat Tunnels

Cat tunnels are great playthings, particularly for the indoors cat. They give your cat places to hide, hide and sneak, pounce, or just sleep; some cats love to chase each other through or play with their humans chasing cat toys through the tunnel. Your cat is getting a bit of exercise and you can hope that this will also distract her from clawing your curtains or your sofa.

But as with all cat products, cats will ignore some and find others completely irresistible, so you need to make sure you buy wisely. For instance, most of the cat tunnels we looked at have crunchy paper or textile that makes a rustling noise. That amuses most cats, but some cats can't bear it. If you have a very timid cat you might need to bear that in mind.

Product Name	Our Rating
Our Top Recommendation
Prosper Pet 3 Way Cat Tunnel
Runners Up
Runner Up: Pet Magasin Collapisble Cat Tunnel
PetJollies Cat Tunnel
ABO Gear Cat Fun Tunnel
New Cat Condos Premier Cat Tunnel

You also need to consider such issues as whether a cat tunnel fits your décor - and whether it can fold up easily if you want to put it away. And you will want it to last - so we ruled out tunnels that don't receive good user feedback for durability.

Although the prices for most cat tunnels (with one exception) run around $10-25, all cat tunnels are not made alike. So which are the best cat tunnels currently available to buy online? We took a look at several of the best cat tunnels on the market and have in turn compiled this comparison to help you pick one.

Here are our top five picks for the best cat tunnels that you can buy:

Our Top Recommendation

Prosper Pet 3 Way Cat Tunnel

The Prosper Pet Cat Tunnel is a collapsible fabric tunnel with a difference - it's a three-way tunnel that gives a cat even more ways to play. It features a peephole in the centre, as well as a swinging bell toy, and has one tube lined with special crinkle-making paper to annoy and infuriate your cat in the best possible way. But the other two tunnels aren't lined with crinkly material, so if you have a cat who doesn't like the noise, this tunnel might work for him.

Perfect for cats of all sizes
Well designed to ensure that your cat comes to no harm
Very durable
Money back guarantee
Prone to sliding across the floor

It comes in a large number of different patterns and colours, so you can match your décor. And because it's slightly larger than many tunnels on the market, it's good for the larger cat. It sells around $20 - a bit more than most other tunnels, but then, it is considerably bigger.

Source: walmart.com

OUR RATING

This is a really well designed product; for instance, the manufacturer has attached protective ends to the wire to make sure it doesn't poke through the fabric. It's made of tear-proof 190T polyester, which is easy to wipe down and doesn't attract cat fur or lint. The seller also backs it with a 100% money back guarantee.

The downsides? The material is pretty slick, so if you have wooden or tiled floors, the tunnel may slide around. However, for some cats, that's part of the fun!

Perhaps less amusing, the material can get electrically charged so you may get a bit of a surprise when you pet your cat companion.

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

Runner Up

Pet Magasin Collapisble Cat Tunnel

This collapsible tunnel from Pet Magasin is made in bright colored fabric and features two tunnels in one package. There's a big tunnel and a small one (35 inches and 18 inches long, respectively), each featuring a hanging cat toy, and the large tunnel also has a peephole. The fabric has a crinkly layer that will make scrunchy noises - some cats love this, others, apparently, are quite fearful.

Two tunnels for the price of one
Easy to store
Great for multiple cat households
2 year warranty
Not so good for really large cats

A spring steel frame holds the tunnel upright when in use; because it's spring-loaded, it will pop open as soon as you release it - there's no tricky assembly to do. Since the tunnels are round, a cat can get inside and make them roll across the floor, affording a whole load of extra fun.

Source: ebay.com

OUR RATING

The tunnel retains its shape well, and it's backed by a 2 year warranty and money back guarantee. Some cat shelters report these tunnels are the single most played-with toy they possess - and of course the advantage of a collapsible tunnel is that if your cat gets bored with it, it's easily stowed away for a while. Leave it a few weeks and by the time you bring it out again, the cat will have forgotten about it and can start discovering it all over again!

It's good value, at a bit over $10. The main downside is that it might be a little small for several species of larger cat. The tunnel also comes only in one colorway, a rather garish orange-dominated stripy pattern that has definite echoes of the circus. Also - something that's common to almost all the cat tunnels we looked at - a cat that likes chewing things can easily chew the cat toys off their strings, and they could present a choking hazard.

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

PetJollies Cat Tunnel

The PetJollies Interactive Tunnel is collapsible, which is great for anyone living in a relatively small space, or who is planning to take their cat on holiday with them and needs to pack efficiently for the trip.

This tunnel is made of washable kraft paper. It doesn't sound very robust, but owners have reported that even cats who like to play rough haven't managed to destroy it. It features a snazzy green and white triangle pattern which would look great in any modern home. But in fact, the pattern isn't meant to appeal to you so much as to the cat; cats' eyes see blue and green better than the red end of the spectrum.

Beautiful simplicity
Great for smaller spaces
Designed to work well with a cat's eyesight
Cats love it
Not very sturdy

The tunnel also makes a crinkly noise that can drive cats really crazy with playfulness. It features a hole in the side where they can lie in wait for you, another cat, or those imaginary aliens they like to chase just when you're trying to get to sleep.

Source: walmart.com

OUR RATING

At just over $10, this cat tunnel won't break the bank. The downside? It only comes in the one colorway, so if you don't like green Christmas trees, you're out of luck.

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ABO Gear Cat Fun Tunnel

The Prosper tunnel gives cats extra fun by giving them three different tunnels to play in; the Abo Gear Fun Tunnel provides that extra element by just giving them a longer run. This is a massive tunnel, at more than four feet long, although it's fully collapsible so storage is no problem.

It's not just lined with rustling material to make cats go wild, it's also been lined with a darker coloured fabric giving the effect of a cat cave. The fabric is a heavy duty plush material which won't snag cats' claws. Two separate peepholes will be appreciated by the multi-cat household as delivering plenty of ambush potential.

Luxurious inner and outer construction
Fully collapsible
Well built
One of the largest cat tunnels we tested
Only comes in leopard print

This tunnel is delivered with an attached cat toy - as with other tunnels, some cats will see it as something that needs to be chewed off. Others will happily bat it around all day.

Source: ebay.com

OUR RATING

At around $20 this tunnel is good value. The only major downside is that… well, that faux leopard print fur is not exactly tasteful.

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New Cat Condos Premier Cat Tunnel

New Cat Condos' Premier Triple Tunnel is one of the most expensive tunnels we looked at, but cat owners who have bought it give it good reviews. The upright structure contains three tunnels running in different directions, and has a cat perch on top that at 20 inches square should suit even the largest domestic cats. It is lined with plush carpet, and the corner supports are made of solid wood, so it's really robust. There's also a choice of five colours - beige, brown, blue, grey, and green.

A unique design
Doubles up as a cat condo
Available in several colors
Made in the USA
Not the cheapest cat tunnel

Best news of all, it comes assembled, so there's no fiddly process of screwing bits together or trying to match the pieces.

This is quite a tall piece of furniture and it can be a little wobbly, though even the most rambunctious felines haven't managed to tip it over according to reviewers. Cats can use the tunnels as perches, or they can jump and run through them; the Triple Tunnel reviews show it's a popular item with cats as well as with their owners. There's no crinkly material on this tunnel, so this is a great purchase if your cat is one of the minority who hate or fear the noisier cat tunnel types.

Source: ebay.com

OUR RATING

The downsides? One possible issue is that the vertical supports could also be used as scratchers by some cats, and since they're covered in plush rather than hardwearing sisal, that could be an issue. The price is also quite high at around $100. That said, this is a quality product and should give your cats years of enjoyment.

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

Our Verdict

And the winner is .... the Prosper 3 Way Cat Tunnel. It's well priced and cats seem to love it - so we do too. It's comes in every color imaginable and even features a money back guarantee.

Of course, you cat may prefer just to play with the cardboard box that your cat tunnel came in. But that's cats for you - perverse, choosy, and contrary creatures, which is probably exactly why we love them so much!

What do you do when it’s that time of year again and you have to take your kitty to the vet? You probably put them in a box and pray that they will stay inside, right? Maybe it’s time you upgrade that shabby old box and get your kitty the best cat carrier they deserve!

Here are five cat carrier reviews that we think will help you choose the best cat carrier for your feline friend.

Our Pick

Winner: Petyella Expandable Cat Carrier

URL: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075SY583P/

The Petyella Expandable Cat Carrier was designed to meet your cat’s needs for safety but for comfort as well. The carrier features a reinforced steel frame that will prevent the carrier from collapsing in on the kitty. The 600D polyester material mesh is going to encourage air circulation so that your cat has plenty of fresh air. With that said, the carrier is capable of folding up nice and compact when you aren’t using it.

This pet carrier is airline approved, so you can take your pet with you on your flight. There is a fleece bed that your cat can lay on while flying, but the carrier also includes a paw print blanket for a little extra comfort. Along with the blanket, there is a collapsible water dish included so you don’t have to worry about your kitty getting dehydrated while traveling.

Notable features of the Petyella Expandable Cat Carrier include:

Strong straps and seams, durable zippers, enhanced stability, soft mat and a light weight

Expanding sides that zip out to give adult dogs and cats plenty of room.

Easy to carry by shoulder strap or integrated handles.

Folds flat for storage under a bed or in a drawer.

Carries cats up to 11 lbs and measures 11 x 11 x 18 inches and 31 x 11 x 18 inch in expanded mode.

Durable metal swivel clips prevent twisting of shoulder strap

Leash clip prevents your animal from dashing out.

Free fleece blanket and collapsible bowl

Storage pocket on the side of the crate keep accessories at your fingertips.

1 Year Money Back Guarantee - 100% refund of your purchase price. No questions asked.

When looking at what people had to say about the Petyella Expandable Cat Carrier, they had great things to say. Customers appreciated that this pet carrier included a comfortable fleece bed, a blanket, and a water dish. They went on to say that they were impressed by how lightweight the carrier was and that the comfortable shoulder strap didn’t dig into their shoulder while carrying it. Several customers commented that the case felt pretty sturdy and they were confident that their cat’s wouldn’t be able to break free.

Though there were many positive reviews, there were some people who were disappointed with their purchase. Of these critical reviews, customers were most disappointed that the zippers on the case were defective. Some people said the zipper on their case was missing the pull tab, while others said that the zipper on their carrier would get stuck from time to time in certain areas. Other customers reported that they received the wrong colored case, but also the accessories that were included didn’t match the colors they received.

Best Soft Sided Cat Carrier

Winner: Bergan Comfort Carrier

URL: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00XHFUB9U/

The Bergan Cat Carrier is designed to be stylish and functional! This is the best cat carrier for those who have heavier cats and you don’t (or can’t) carry the weight on your shoulder. This is because the carrier is outfitted with removable wheels and a pull strap that allows you to pull the bag as if it were a piece of luggage. However, if you have to go up steps or you don’t want to drag your cat behind you, the pull strap does convert to a padded shoulder strap. The bag is so lightweight, you will just be carrying the weight of your pet and an extra pound or so for the bag.

The carrier also features strong mesh on all four sides and on the top. This allows for excellent airflow, allowing your kitty to get plenty fresh air, but also so you can look in and check on them without having to open the case. The bag also features several pockets on the sides so that you can tuck away treats and toys to make the trip a little more pleasant for your cat. The case is airline friendly, so you can rest assured that you’ll be able to fly with your cat right at your feet in this cat carrier.

Notable features of the Bergan Comfort Carrier include:

Comfort Carrier has a practical design, which creates stress free traveling.

Its generous mesh panels ensure maximum breath-ability.

Includes a washable fleece travel bed and light tan interior for a cushioned and cool ride

Multiple mesh panels for maximum ventilation for your cat

Internal Dimensions: 18" L x 11" H x 9" W

Typically for pets up to 20lbs; however, varies per pet, refer to dimensions

We ensure every product comes with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee.

When looking at what people had to say about the Bergan Comfort Carrier, they had great things to say. Customers liked that the case was large enough for two cats (one person said she had two 8-pound cats in the carrier) and they had plenty of room to get up and move around. Other customers reported that they appreciated that the carrier gave you the option to carry it on your shoulder, or pull behind you. Other people said they liked that this case was airline compatible and they can take their cat with them on trips instead of trying to find care arrangements.

There were some people who left critical reviews of the carrier and the most common complaint people had was that the carrying case wasn’t as large as they had anticipated. Some people reported that their cat didn’t have very much room to move or lounge. Other customers reported that the mesh isn’t indestructible and their cats put a hole in the mesh. A few people also mentioned that the zippers on their bag needed repairing only after a few uses.

Runner Up: Airline Approved OxGord Pet Carrier

URL: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EW2WKZU/

The OxGord Pet Carrier is one of the most respected name in the pet supply and accessory industry. Their airline approved, soft sided carrying case features a Sherpa bed inside, which is going to make your kitty comfortable while traveling. The pet carrier is quite sturdy, even though there are numerous mesh panels to promote air circulation and breathability. When you’re traveling in the car with the carrier, there are safety belt straps that allows you to buckle the carrier securely to the seat.

This pet carrier is FAA Airline Approved, which means that you can fly with your cat without any hassle. If you do have a cat who gets anxious while flying, the unwind and bind feature is designed to keep your kitty calm in-flight. If there is a favorite treat or toy your cat likes, you can tuck it away in the storage compartments that are designed in the bag.

Notable features of the Airline Approved OxGord Pet Carrier include:

19"x10"x13" inches - Can hold up to 15 pounds.

Compliant with most airlines (please check with your airline before flying).

The unwind and bind feature allow owners access to their pets without the risk of escape.

Includes:

Removable fleece travel bed

Padded shoulder strap

Lost and found tag

Storage compartments for medicine, toys and treats.

Made from durable and comfortable breathable materials for maximum airflow.

Ventilated security screens are easy to clean and 100 percent washable.

Money Back Guarantee

When looking at what people had to say about the Airline Approved OxGord Pet Carrier, they had great things to say. Many customers commented that the design of this carrying case is well thought out and they like that the case is easy to use. People also appreciated that the bed can be removed to be washed and the water-resistant underside will protect the rest of the carrier from getting damaged if the cat has an accident. Customers also liked that there is a zipper that makes it easy for you to check on your cat without worrying about the cat escaping.

Some people were not as impressed with this case and left critical reviews. Of these critical reviews, the most common problem people had was that the seam on their bag popped. They went on to say the cat wasn’t doing anything vicious to the bag – they just leaned on it. Some people said the zippers were difficult to use with one hand without it getting stuck. A few other people commented that the bag was too small and their cats would not fit into it.

Best Hard Sided Cat Carrier

Winner: Petmate Two Door Top Load Kennel

URL: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0062JFGM0/

Unlike other pet carriers you may come across, the Petmate Two Door Top Load Kennel features a door on top of the crate that enables you to lower your kitty inside if they are hesitant to going in through the front door. Not only will the top loading door make it easier to put your cat inside, but you can check in on your cat without having to jostle the crate to peer in through the side. The handle on the crate is designed to be ergonomic and it’ll fit comfortably in the hand.

This crate doesn’t rely on a latch system to hold the components together, instead it requires hardware that is going to be far better at holding everything together. When it is all assembled, you’ll be able to take this cat carrier on an airplane, as it meets all airline travel requirements. You’ll want to put a small pet bed or a comfortable blanket inside so that your cat is nice and comfortable for the journey.

Notable features of the Petmate Two Door Top Load Kennel include:

Steel and plastic construction for enhanced strength, safety and visibility

2-door carrier design allows for easy access to pets

Durable ergonomic carry handle for safer pet transport

Water cup NOT included. Inner Dimensions: 21" x 14.75" x 13.25"

Ideal for small pets no more than 7 inches tall and 15 inches in length

Product Dimensions : 24.05" X 16.75" X 14.5"

When looking at what people had to say about the Petmate Two Door Top Load Kennel, they had great things to say. Many customers reported that the crate was easy to assemble and they appreciated that the necessary hardware was included with the crate. People also appreciated that the crate was large enough to accommodate small dogs, cats (of course) and other pets like rabbits and guinea pigs. When it comes to loading their pets inside the crate, many customers appreciated the option to put them in through the front, but also using the top door.

On the other hand, not everyone was satisfied with their purchase and they left some critical comments about the carrier. The most common complaint people had was that the crate wasn’t as large as they had hoped. People commented that their pet barely had any room to move around. Others commented that the crate didn’t feel very sturdy, even though it was made from a thick plastic. Some went on to say that the top door needs to be held open, which is impossible if you’re struggling to get your cat in the crate to begin with.

Runner Up: AmazonBasics Two-Door Top-Load Pet Kennel

URL: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OP6SVJW/

The AmazonBasics Two-Door Top-Load Pet Kennel is an affordable two door pet carrier that allows you to safely carry your cat from one place to another. This unit has a steel wire front door, but it also has a door on the top where you can lower your kitty down into the carrier if they are reluctant to go in by themselves. The top door can be opened either on the right or the left. This convenience lends itself to being a functional carrier for right handed pet owners and left handed pet owners alike.

This pet carrier is made from a heavy duty plastic material that will your cat contained, regardless of how much they may struggle. There is plenty of ventilation in this carrying case so that your cat has access to fresh air, but so that you can look in a check on your kitty, but also for your cat to look out and be aware of their surroundings.

Notable features of the AmazonBasics Two-Door Top-Load Pet Kennel include:

Two-door, top-load model allows for easy loading of your cat or dog

Measures 23x15x13 inches (LxWxH)

Top door can open to the left or right for easy access and convenience

Included screws can be used to further secure the top and bottom of kennel for reinforcement

Made of durable plastic with a steel-wire front door

When looking at what people had to say about the AmazonBasics Two-Door Top-Load Pet Kennel, they had great things to say. Customers who left positive reviews of these carriers commented on how nicely the carrier was constructed. People felt that the plastic was sturdy and they could rely on the steel wire door to stay latched. Customers appreciated that there was a door on top of the carrier because their cats were apprehensive about going into the carrier on their own.

There were some people who were less impressed with their purchase and they had some concerns about the quality. The most concerning complaint was that the top door was not very sturdy and when you used the handle to carry the case, the top door would open. Many were upset that this is quite dangerous, as their cats could have ran away and gotten hurt when the door opened and the case fell in a busy parking lot. Others were upset that the holes for the screws didn’t line up properly, making it very difficult (or impossible) to get all the screws in.

What To Look For When Choosing the Best Cat Carrier?

Choosing a pet carrier for your pet is incredibly important because you want to make sure they are safe, secure, and comfortable. If you travel a lot and you want to bring your cat, instead of finding a house sitter or lodging solution, you may want to consider finding the best cat carrier for air travel, as these are going to be airline approved.

Here are the main factors you will want to take into consideration when looking for your new cat carrier:

Type: There are several different types of carriers that you can choose from:

Cardboard Carrier: A cardboard carrier is usually given to new cat-parents who are bringing home a newly adopted cat or kitten from a shelter. These carriers are not suited for long term or air travel.

Soft Carrier: A soft carrier is generally made from a soft nylon material and will have a sturdy, removable bottom. They often look like a large gym bag with mesh windows so the cat can get plenty of fresh air. They will have zipper openings on the side of the bag and on the top.

Hard Carrier: These carriers are often made from plastic or polypropylene and they are going to have ventilation on each side of the crate. These crates will have one or two doors (one on the side and one on the top) and they are going to be the easiest to clean.

Size: The size of your carrier should be large enough so that your cat has enough room to stand, stretch, and turn around. Size is especially important if you are going on longer trips because you want to make sure there is enough room in the carrier for food and water dishes. To figure out the size, you will want to know the size and weight of your cat and choose a carrier that way.

Ventilation: It’s important that the cat carrier you opt for has plenty of ventilation while you are traveling. Not only is it important for your cat to have fresh air, but the best cat carrier for nervous cats will have ways for you to look in, and them to look out, also.

Easiness to Clean: Cleaning your cat carrier is going to be par for the course while traveling, so you’re going to want a case that is easy to clean. There are some soft cases that have removable bottoms, but if you just want something super simple, a hard carrier is the way to go.

Airline Approved: Traveling with your pets can be tricky, especially if you are flying. However, look for an airline approved carrier to make sure your pet is going to be safe. Each airline has their own regulations, although most of the best cat carriers for airplane travel will be safe to use on all airlines. To be safe, you should always check with your preferred airline for these regulations.

Our Recommendation

There are many cat carriers on the market and choosing the best cat carrier for your furry friend doesn’t have to be a hassle. Of the ones we’ve discussed in these buying guide, the Petyella Expandable Cat Carrier is by far our top choice. It’s affordable, it’s a soft carrier that your cat will be able to breathe and move in, and when it isn’t being used, it folds up nice and compact for storing! What more could you ask for? Oh, that’s right! A soft fleece bed and a collapsible water dish. How perfect is that?

Resources:

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