Cat Boarding Cost Calculator
Calculate total cat boarding costs for your trip. Multiply nightly rate by number of nights plus additional fees for medication and special care.
Cat Carrier Size Calculator
Calculate the right cat carrier size based on your cat's measurements. Carrier length = nose to tail base + 4 inches, height = head height + 3 inches.
in
in
in
lbs
Recommended Carrier Size⧉
22"L × 10"W × 13"H
Large carrier — body + clearance
Interior Volume⧉
1.7 cu ft
Enough room to stand, turn, and lie down
Min Weight Capacity⧉
15 lbs
1.5× your cat's 10 lb weight
Size Category⧉
Large
Based on 22" length
Airline Compatible⧉
No ✗
Carrier exceeds under-seat dimensions
Recommended Type⧉
Hard-sided
Best for vet travel
Size Visualization
Length
Cat: 18" → Carrier: 22"
Height
Cat: 10" → Carrier: 13"
Width
Cat: 7" → Carrier: 10"
Airline Under-Seat Requirements
| Airline | Max Dimensions | Hard-Sided | Soft-Sided |
|---|---|---|---|
| Generic | 18×11×11" | Too large ✗ | Too large ✗ |
| Delta | 18×11×11" | Too large ✗ | Too large ✗ |
| United | 18×11×11" | Too large ✗ | Too large ✗ |
| American | 19×13×9" | Too large ✗ | Too large ✗ |
| Southwest | 18.5×8.5×13.5" | Too large ✗ | Too large ✗ |
| JetBlue | 17×12.5×8.5" | Too large ✗ | Too large ✗ |
Carrier Type Guide
| Type | Best For | Weight Range | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hard-Sided | Vet visits, car travel | Up to 25 lbs | $25–60 |
| Soft-Sided | Airline, short trips | Up to 18 lbs | $30–70 |
| Backpack | Walking, hiking | Up to 15 lbs | $40–80 |
| Top-Loading | Nervous cats, vet | Up to 25 lbs | $30–65 |
| Expandable | Long trips, overnight | Up to 20 lbs | $50–100 |
Quick Size Reference by Weight
| Cat Weight | Approx Body Length | Carrier Size | Category |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2-5 lbs | 10-14" | 14-18" L | Small |
| 5-8 lbs | 14-17" | 18-21" L | Small-Medium |
| 8-12 lbs | 17-20" | 21-24" L | Medium |
| 12-18 lbs | 20-23" | 24-27" L | Large |
| 18+ lbs | 23-28" | 27-32" L | Extra Large |
Planning notes, formulas, and examples
About the Cat Carrier Size Calculator
A properly sized cat carrier is essential for safe vet visits, travel, and emergency evacuations. Too small and your cat is cramped and stressed; too large and your cat slides around during transport. The ideal carrier lets your cat stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
The sizing formula is straightforward: the carrier length should be your cat's body length (nose to tail base) plus 4 inches, the width should allow the cat to turn around comfortably, and the height should accommodate the cat standing with a couple inches of clearance.
This calculator recommends the ideal carrier dimensions based on your cat's measurements, and indicates whether the carrier would meet airline under-seat requirements for in-cabin pet travel.
When This Page Helps
The wrong carrier size causes stress and safety issues. This calculator ensures your carrier purchase fits your specific cat, whether you need a standard carrier for vet visits or an airline-compliant one for travel.
How to Use the Inputs
- Measure your cat's body length from nose to tail base (in inches).
- Measure your cat's height from floor to top of head when standing.
- Measure your cat's width at the widest point (shoulder to shoulder).
- View recommended carrier dimensions.
- Check if a carrier meets airline under-seat requirements.
- Use the dimensions to shop for the right carrier.
Formula used
Carrier length = body length + 4"
Carrier height = standing height + 3"
Carrier width = body width + 3"
Airline compliance: typically max 18"L × 11"W × 11"H (varies by airline)Example Calculation
Result: 22"L × 10"W × 13"H recommended
Body length 18" + 4" = 22" carrier length. Width 7" + 3" = 10" carrier width. Height 10" + 3" = 13" carrier height. This size gives your cat room to stand and turn. Airline limit is typically 18"L × 11"W × 11"H, so this cat would need a soft-sided collapsible carrier for in-cabin air travel.
Tips & Best Practices
- Measure your cat while standing naturally — don't stretch them out.
- Hard-sided carriers are more secure; soft-sided carriers fit better under airline seats.
- Top-loading carriers make it easier to place and remove nervous cats.
- Leave the carrier out at home with a blanket inside so your cat doesn't associate it only with vet visits.
- For car travel, secure the carrier with a seatbelt for safety.
- Keep one carrier per cat for multi-cat households — never transport two cats in one carrier.
Carrier Types Compared
Hard-sided plastic: Most secure, easy to clean, $20-50. Soft-sided fabric: Lightweight, airline-friendly, expandable options, $25-60. Backpack carriers: Hands-free carrying, good for short trips, $30-70. Wheeled carriers: Best for airports and long walks, $40-80.
Choosing for Different Situations
Vet visits: Hard-sided with top and front opening is most versatile. Airline travel: Soft-sided meeting your airline's specific dimensions. Car travel: Hard-sided secured with seatbelt. Emergency evacuation: Any carrier that you can grab quickly — practice loading.
Carrier Training Your Cat
Leave the carrier out permanently with a soft blanket inside. Feed treats inside the carrier daily. Never only bring it out for vet trips. Positive associations make carrier loading stress-free for both of you. Start training kittens early for best results.
Sources & Methodology
Last updated:
Frequently Asked Questions
Most average adult cats (8-12 lbs) fit in a 19"L × 12"W × 12"H carrier. This is the most common "medium" size sold. For larger cats (12+ lbs), look for carriers around 24"L × 16"W × 14"H.
Maine Coons and similar large breeds typically need carriers in the 24-26"L × 16"W × 16"H range. Some extra-large cats need a small dog carrier. Always measure your specific cat.
Most airlines require carriers no larger than 18"L × 11"W × 11"H, though dimensions vary by airline. Soft-sided carriers that compress slightly are preferred. Check your specific airline's requirements before purchasing.
Hard-sided carriers are more durable, secure, and easier to clean. Soft-sided carriers are lighter, fit better under airline seats, and are easier to store. For vet visits, hard-sided with top-loading is ideal.
No. Each cat should have its own carrier, even bonded pairs. In a stressful situation, cats can redirect aggression toward each other. Separate carriers also prevent one cat from blocking the entrance.
Use a top-loading carrier and lower the cat in back-feet-first. Cover the carrier with a towel for calming. Place familiar bedding and treats inside. Spray with Feliway (calming pheromone) 30 minutes before. Never force or chase your cat.
More in this topic
Cat Food Amount Calculator
Calculate exactly how much wet or dry food to feed your cat daily. Convert calorie needs to cups, cans, or grams for precise portion control.
Cat Food Cost per Month Calculator
Calculate your monthly cat food expenses based on daily portions, food type, and package pricing. Budget accurately for your cat's nutrition.