Bringing your cat along for your next outing or hike? A cat backpack can be a great way to keep your feline friend safe, comfortable, and included in your explorations. But before you hit the trail, it’s essential to take a thoughtful approach to backpack training. Cats are creatures of habit, and a sudden introduction to a backpack can be jarring without the right preparation. This guide will help your cat get comfortable with their new mobile hangout spot.
Let Your Cat Explore Freely
Start by placing the backpack on the floor and unzipping it. Don’t attempt to place your cat inside right away. Let them investigate at their own pace—sniffing, pawing, and exploring. Leaving the backpack out in a familiar space helps your cat see it as part of their environment rather than a disruptive object. Removing accessories like bubble windows or mesh screens can help make it more accessible and less intimidating.
Make It Fun and Playful
To build a positive connection, turn the backpack into a playful zone. Add some favorite toys inside or just around the entrance. Toss in a crinkly mouse or roll a jingle ball through the opening. Letting your cat play in and around the bag helps associate it with fun and comfort, not stress or confinement. If they grow comfortable enough to nap inside, that’s a great sign they’re beginning to feel safe.
Use Treats and Meals for Positive Association
Another great way to build trust is by introducing treats and meals into the experience. Place a small treat inside the backpack and see if your cat steps in to retrieve it. Gradually increase the time spent inside by feeding meals with the backpack open. This builds familiarity and teaches your cat that the backpack is a positive, rewarding space. Lining the bottom with a soft blanket or even a warming pad can also make it more appealing.
Incorporate the Backpack Into Daily Life
Make the backpack part of daily life by leaving it open in high-traffic or favorite zones in your home—near the window, beside the cat tree, or next to a favorite lounging spot. The more the backpack becomes part of your cat’s usual routine, the more relaxed they’ll feel about using it.
Start with Gentle Movement
Once your cat is comfortable spending time in the backpack indoors, introduce movement gently. Zip your cat inside and walk around your home for a couple of minutes. Keep the first few experiences brief, and always follow up with a treat or praise. Gradually increase the distance—take a short walk down the block, then around the corner, and so on. Keep the tone positive and reassuring so your cat feels secure.
Choose the Right Backpack for Safety and Comfort
When you’re ready for bigger adventures, make sure to use a high-quality backpack with strong materials, ventilation, and a secure closure. Your cat should have enough space to sit, turn around, and lie down comfortably. A well-designed backpack makes all the difference in ensuring both safety and comfort.
Why We Recommend Travel Cat Backpacks
At Pets on Broadway, we proudly carry Travel Cat—the world’s #1 cat travel brand. Created by husband-and-wife duo Emily and Ian, Travel Cat was born out of a deep love for their rescue cat Andie and the realization that most travel gear wasn't designed with cats in mind. Their mission is to create high-quality, safe, and stylish products that enrich the lives of cats and their humans.
Every backpack is designed to support healthy cat enrichment by encouraging safe exploration beyond the home—whether that’s a stroll around the neighborhood or a day hike in the woods. Travel Cat believes that cats deserve more than a windowsill view of the world—and their gear makes it possible to bond with your cat in entirely new ways.
If you’re looking for a durable, cat-approved backpack that’s as functional as it is stylish, Travel Cat is the way to go.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cat backpacks safe?
Yes, as long as you choose one made with durable, breathable materials and use it with care. Avoid exposing your cat to extreme temperatures or leaving them unattended while inside the backpack.
Do cats like backpacks?
Some cats take to backpacks right away, while others may need a slower introduction. The key is consistency, patience, and always associating the backpack with something positive—like playtime, food, or cuddles.
How should you carry a cat?
To lift your cat properly, support them under the chest with one arm and cradle the hindquarters with the other. Never pick them up by the front legs or under the belly.
What if your cat won’t go into the backpack?
Try coaxing them in with treats, toys, or a cozy blanket. If that doesn’t work, gently pick them up and place them inside, then offer a reward immediately. Avoid forcing them in roughly—gentle encouragement and positive reinforcement go a long way.
Training your cat for backpack adventures takes time, patience, and consistency. But with the right approach, you’ll both be ready to explore the great outdoors—or even just the neighborhood—in no time. Happy adventuring!
