How To Backpack Train Your Cat – Training Steps And Advice

If you're like me, you may well hope that your cat will want to go with you wherever you go. The most practical way for that to happen, whether it's for short local or urban trips or serious outdoor adventures and hiking, is to carry them in a cat backpack.

But, there's a hurdle you need to get over. How to backpack train your cat!

Backpack training your cat is similar in concept to cat harness and leash training and you'll need to go through similar steps. It's also important to ensure that your cat is happy to wear a harness before you start because you will need them to be comfortable in a harness and leash if they are going to go anywhere outdoors with you.

The harness and leash for your cat are paramount for their safety, so start with that first. Some cats will take to that without any fuss but many need a considered training approach which you can learn about here.

I'll lay out the steps that I follow to backpack train a cat, but do read the later part of this guide in which I talk about understanding your cat's behavior and needs (as this affects their interest in backpack training) as well as some other key things to consider, such as their safety and thinking about taking them with you on longer outdoor adventures.

Cat Backpack Training Steps and Techniques

Step 1 - Gradual Introduction to the Cat Backpack

Start training your cat inside your home because it's a safe environment where they feel comfortable with no unexpected noise and distractions. More importantly, they can't escape if the process does spook them.

Ideally, you will have harness-trained your cat already and will be able to put a cat harness and leash on them without any drama. If not, you can start without a harness, but at the point you start to carry the backpack they will need to be wearing one so that they are secure inside the backpack.

Your first step is then to leave the cat backpack out somewhere in your home where your cat feels safe - a favorite spot. Have the access panel (I prefer backpacks with front or side openings) open and let them get used to it being in their environment. Don't force anything but let them investigate and explore it on their own terms.

Your cat is curious, so they will nose around it and are highly likely to go inside and check it out thoroughly. If you're lucky they will take to it quickly and might make it a preferred sleeping spot.

Let them sniff about it, go in and come out at their pace and without any restrictions. In other words, just leave it there and let them get used to it in their own way. Take it slow and go at their pace so that they get to a point where they take the existence of the backpack in their space for granted.

Step 2 - Create Positive Associations

It is crucial that your cat builds up a positive association both with the backpack and with being in it. So, each time they interact with the backpack in any way, reward them for it. This is going to teach them that it's an enjoyable place to be. Before you get to taking them on outdoor trips you want your cat to see the backpack as their safe place - where they will go happily if anything puts them under stress (such as another animal or simply an unusual sound or smell).

If they aren't going in of their own accord, try to lure them into the backpack using something they love. If they're food-motivated, that's going to be a cat treat. If they're play-motivated, it'll be a cat toy. It could also be that you try a little catnip inside the backpack or a favorite blanket or even a piece of your clothing that they like to sleep on.

Either way, when they do interact with the backpack, give them that positive reinforcement treat.

Step 3 - Get Your Cat Used to Being in the Backpack

Once your cat gets the hang of that, at this point, they're going to start expecting treats when they get into the backpack. As they become more used to it, only reward them after they get into the backpack. Instead of using the food or toy to motivate them, wait until they get in and then reward them after they're all the way inside the backpack. 

Gradually increase the amount of time that they spend in the backpack before you give them their treat and praise so that they are soon spending a few minutes in there before they are rewarded.

Step 4 - Acclimatize Your Cat to the Closed Backpack

Once your cat has become used to being in the backpack, zip the door up and then open it back up immediately and give them their reward.

From there, slowly increase the time that the door is closed so they get more and more used to that feeling of being enclosed in the backpack. Again, it depends on your cat (because they might take to it and not be bothered at all), but if necessary do this very slowly so they don't get upset, overwhelmed or scared. Only move on to the later steps when they seem comfortable inside the backpack with the door closed. 

Step 5 - Acclimatize Your Cat to Movement in the Backpack

Finally, you can move on to actually transporting your cat in the backpack! While they're in the backpack with the door zipped up (and with the safety leash clipped to their harness and all the openings securely closed, of course) pick the backpack up and put it back down and then reward them. 

You'll need to do this several times until they get used to the motion of being picked up and put down and they seem totally calm. Just do these steps a few minutes at a time, several times a day until your cat seems comfortable enough to move on. 

After picking up and setting down the backpack multiple times without any problems, move on to carrying it a very short distance and putting it down. Do this with the carrying handle but with your cat facing you so you can monitor their body language and comfort them if they seem a little uneasy. Reward them for staying calm.

Once you can do this with a calm cat, do the same thing but put the backpack on and walk around a little inside your home. I suggest putting the backpack on your front at this stage so that you can still see your cat and they can see you to keep them calm.

Slowly transition to doing the same thing but with the backpack now on your back so your cat is not relying on being able to see you. Of course, you can talk to them to let them know they are safe and you are right there with them.

Step 6 - Heading Outside

When your cat is ready, taking them outside in the backpack is probably the biggest step. This is especially true if your cat is an indoor cat and this will be the only time they leave your house. Generally, this step will be easier and quicker if you have an outdoor cat who has had previous access to a garden or a catio.

It depends on how confident you are in where your training has reached but, if you feel the need to keep going slowly, I would recommend simply slowly heading towards the door with the backpack. Open the door and close it and then return with the backpack, and then reward them. Pick up where you left off either a few minutes later or even the next day and keep doing that over a period of days.

The aim here is for you to feel confident carrying your cat in the backpack and for them to feel similarly safe.

You can even start heading towards your car if your goal is to get them comfortable with being in the car. If you're planning on going any distance for trips with them then this is a step to deal with at some stage so it may as well be now.

Slowly carry your cat in the backpack to the car, unlock the car, open the door, and shut it. Open up and reward them and repeat until you can leave your cat in there and walk back into your home. I would do that over and over until your cat is comfortable being in the backpack, being transported out of your home and getting into the car. Deciding to take a little spin with your cat inside the backpack in the car (safely secured, of course) is one you’ll have to make at some point but that’s for another article! 

Step 7 - Acclimatizing Your Cat Outside

Now that your cat is happy to be carried outside in the cat backpack, you need to step it up so that they are acclimatized to the outdoor environment and ready to actually go on walks, hikes or trips.

Your cat will need to be on a harness and leash as you’re going to let them out in a public space and you need to keep them safe and prevent them from running off.

I also recommend adding that favorite blanket, or your sweater they love, to the bottom of the backpack for extra familiarity for them (and in case they have a toilet accident - so maybe not your sweater…)

Once outside your home (hopefully on some lawn if you have it, or go to a nearby park) set the backpack on the ground in a safe area away from distractions. 

Take them out of the backpack, and just let them sit there next to it.

Your cat already knows how to get into the backpack so you don't have to retrain them to do that, but just go straight to the step of waiting for them to get all the way in by themselves, and give them a treat.

Repeat that several times.

Just as you did when training them at home, when they go in, zip up the backpack. They've already done this before so you can have them in there for a couple of minutes. Then unzip the backpack, give them a treat and pet them. Then repeat that a few times.

The next step is going to be picking up the cat backpack with your cat safely secured inside and the openings closed and secured. It's again the same thing as indoors, picking it up and putting it down and then giving them a treat. You move on a little by picking it up, holding it for a few minutes and maybe even walking around for a minute or two.

As before, I suggest that you start walking having the backpack in front. This might look a little odd now you’re out in public, but your cat can see you and you can talk to them and try to keep them calm. 

Step 8 - Taking a Walk

Now you’re up and running. You’re outside and your cat is happy to get in and out of the backpack

The next step is to walk around the local area with them. Stop after every few minutes and reassure your cat. I'm not going to suggest that you give them a treat every time you stop or your cat is going to put on weight very quickly!

But, use your understanding of your cat to give them one if you think it's needed, but regardless, do keep reassuring them. Stop and start, set the backpack down and take them in and out of the backpack as needed to keep the training moving forward.

Step 9 - Take Short Local Walks

You’ll now have a real feel for what your cat is happy to do and for how long. All that’s left to do now is up the frequency and distance of your walks with your cat until they are used to being out and about for longer periods.

Initially stick to quiet environments and spaces and let them get out of the backpack (safely - on the leash) when you sense that they want to.

At some point, you also need to think about introducing them to noisier spaces where they will have new stimuli to get used to. You might think about popping into a cafe or restaurant on a local walk. Remember that the noise level and unusual nature of the sounds may spook your cat. Monitor your cat’s behavior, body language and vocalization when in new environments and be prepared and ready to soothe them. Leave if they are overwhelmed.

Gradual exposure to these things helps your cat adapt to new sounds, sights and smells and reinforces that they are safe inside their backpack.

Over a few weeks, go out regularly, up the distance of your local area walks, go at different times of the day and visit different places - all to deepen the range of places where your cat feels at ease.

If you’re going out for more than an hour or two, think about the needs of your cat in terms of food, drink and toilet. Take some treats, a collapsible bowl, and a water bottle and consider putting some pet pee pads in the bottom of the backpack.

Step 10 - Hiking and Outdoor Adventure

You’re set. Your cat is now ready for a bigger trip. Perhaps a full-day hike or outdoor adventure or maybe you’ve done all the training because you’re taking them to a cat-friendly hotel or on a feline road trip with you.

Prepare well by making sure you have all the gear you need (such as a spare leash and harness and the food, treats, water and pee pads) and don’t rush your cat on the first few longer walks.

If anything goes wrong, stop and take stock and reassure your cat.

With the correct backpack training, there is no reason that they won’t enjoy their outdoor adventure. If they weren’t going to like it you would have found out before now!

Maintaining Training and Acclimatization

Whatever you do, keep reinforcing their training. Do not consider backpack training to be ‘one and done’ and you can now ignore it, then expect them to get in the backpack happily months from now.

Make sure to leave the backpack out at home at all times so they can explore and crawl in it whenever they want so that it becomes part of their environment. That helps to create the idea of it as a safe space for them as opposed to putting it away every time you come back from an adventure. If you do that, then when your cat sees you take it out, they know it's time to leave, which could make them anxious, especially if there’s been some time between their outdoor trips.

It's better when it's already in their environment and they're used to it being around it all the time. They're comfortable in it and they can go in and take a nap and that helps you reach the goal of making it a safe and comfortable place for them. 

In addition, pop your cat in the backpack and go for a short trip very regularly. I go out with Meister almost every day and he knows it’s part of his life. In fact, he’s keen to go out in the cat backpack!

Ongoing training and repetition nurture your cat’s trust in you and the understanding that they are safe in the backpack in the outdoor environment. It also builds a stronger bond between you.

Cat Backpack Training Takes Time!

Cats are not dogs and training them is not like training a dog. It's typically a different and slower process, not because they're stupid, but because cats already know that they don't have to do anything if they don’t want to! They are also notoriously self-reliant and won’t do the things you want them to do.

Training a cat takes a bit more psychology, so learning their body language and trying to communicate with them in ways they understand using incentives, earning their trust, and giving them a reason to get in the backpack are the things that are really going to go a long way.

Of course, you can break up all the steps I’ve set out however you want. You can make very fast progress if your cat wanders into the backpack at the start and lies down without a care in the world - and some will.

You can then try to do all the initial outdoor training in as little as one day if your cat really got the hang of the backpack in the indoor sessions and if they seem comfortable and are learning quickly. As long as your cat isn't getting overwhelmed and is happy then you can go through the steps at whatever pace works and does not stress them.

Equally, you can do each of these steps one day at a time and let your cat get used to increasingly more time outdoors in the backpack over a few days. Your cat will give you some indication of the pace with which they are taking it. Never push it and don't carry on if you sense your cat is uncomfortable in any way.

The last thing you want to do is overwhelm your cat, so I would always just start with a very short amount of time for each of these steps, and then slowly increase that.

You will know what your cat's ready for and you will know if it's not going to work and they're not ready. You know your cat and you know that they will tell you if they don't want to do it!

The Essentials Of Cat Backpack Training

I said above that I’d look at some key things that you need to know before you embark on training your cat to use a backpack, and these range from picking the right backpack to being able to tell what your cat is feeling whilst your doing the training.

Choosing the Right Backpack

It’s obvious, but you need a backpack that is appropriate for you, your cat and the type of use you will make of it, both when training them and once you are ready for adventures.

I have bought and tested all the best cat backpacks, and have written the ultimate guide to choosing the right one for you and your cat here.

I strongly suggest that you take the time to read that as it contains all I know about all the backpacks I would consider. If it’s not in that roundup test, I don’t rate it.

When I started out training Meister, I bought the Apollo Walker, which is at the budget end of the market but it means you don’t spend too much while you're just finding out if your cat is going to want to use a cat backpack. 

My favorite all-rounder is the Pecute Expandable (the new mesh panel version), which has all the features you could possibly want and only costs a little more. It’s also a good first buy which will last you a long time.

However, these days I use the Travel Cat Navigator which I think is the best cat backpack you can buy, works for all uses, including serious hiking with your cat, but it is pricier.

Read the full guide, because you’ll learn a lot more about what you need, but basically, you’re after enough space for your cat to be comfortable, plenty of ventilation, security and safety and comfort for you when carrying.

Here’s my overview video of those three options:

Securing Your Cat Safely in the Backpack

The safety of your cat when you take them out of your home is your responsibility alone and should be your main concern.

I already said that before you start backpack training your cat you really need to be able to get them into a harness and walking on a leash. 

That’s because when you do go somewhere new on an outdoor trip they will need to get out of the backpack and wander around.

There are very few cats that I would trust to roam free in a place they don’t know. So, they need to be on a harness and leash to be safe. Of course, part of the point of taking them on a trip is so that they can be free to explore but that means… on a cat harness and leash!

Moreover, you need to strap your cat into the backpack securely so that they are safe and cannot get out and run off. A safety leash or strap in the backpack itself ensures that (and should preferably be low down or your cat can still clamber out of a top opening). That strap should, wherever possible, be attached to a clip on a cat harness that they are wearing and which you put them in before you leave your home.

You can clip this to a cat’s collar, but that always looks very uncomfortable for them and I do not recommend it.

I’ve made a video and written in detail about harness training your cat as well.

So, always have your cat in a harness and only buy a cat backpack with a good, secure safety strap inside - and always use it!

On top of that, always make sure that all the openings are securely zipped up. Some have additional safety clips so that zippers can’t come open as well. If you are leaving a flap open for your cat to watch the world or because it’s a warm day, do make sure that they cannot manoeuvre themselves out of the pack through that opening.

Lastly, be aware of the heat. This is critical. If you are out on even a moderately warm day, the backpack can heat up rapidly. If you have the backpack on your back and the sun is directly on it, you might not be aware, but your cat could be at risk.

If your cat is getting too hot (especially if your cat is panting), take a break, take them out and give them some water. Although they can regulate their temperature somewhat, it’s hard for them to do this effectively if they are enclosed in a small space that is heating up, so it’s your job to make sure you do not let them overheat.

Understanding Your Cat’s Behavior

Every cat is different with a unique personality which is going to have a big effect on how they take to the training and how long it will take.

Some will ‘get it’ straight away and, the truth is, some just won’t have it and you’ll be returning the backpack you bought!

To tell how your training is going you’ll need to understand your cat’s temperament and observe their behavior and comfort level. It’s this understanding that underpins successful training.

Reading Cat Body Language

Since your cat can’t tell you how they are feeling, you need to be able to interpret their actions.

Clearly, attempts to escape the backpack should be pretty obvious but there are more subtle cues that you should be able to pick up on - and these are all general cat body language that you can observe, not just for when you’re backpack training your cat.

Tail: An upright and straight tail is a display of happiness and confidence that tells you your cat is secure and happy. If they have their tail held low or they puffed it out this is a display of fear or aggression.

Eyes: If your cat has dilated pupils this shows excitement or anxiety (like when they are chasing a toy). Looking up at you with the slow blinking eyes means affection and trust (or they are after food…).

Ears: Forward pointing ears means your cat is interested in what is going on whilst laying them flat is a sign of fear or irritation. When they are really pulling them back, they have had enough!

These visual cues can help you tell how the training is being received so be alert to them, but also look out for other indicators of stress.

Identifying Signs of Stress in Cats

If your cat displays real signs of stress then it’s time to immediately stop anything you’re trying to get them to do. A good proportion of cats are really going to dislike being in any type of carrier, including backpacks and are going to let you know it!

Vocalizing: If your cat is hissing, growling or meowing excessively this is a sign of distress.

Aggression: If your cat is not usually aggressive to you or other animals but now lashes out and attacks, then they are clearly telling you to stop what you’re doing.

Panting: Cats have some control over regulating their body temperature, but if they are panting this likely means they are stressed or overheating. 

Grooming: Excessive licking or grooming can indicate discomfort and stress that your cat is trying to manage. Give them a break.

Conversely, it’s useful to know that if you stop on a hike and your cat pants and starts to groom themselves a lot (especially if you’ve let them out and they have found a shady spot) this can be them regulating their heat. It’s one method they have at their disposal - to lick their fur and let their saliva evaporate to have a cooling effect. In this specific case don’t misread the combined signals.

Otherwise, take note of their body language and these behaviors and modify or stop your current training practice. Come back to it another time, and if your cat continues to be stressed, maybe they are one of the cats that just aren’t going to allow it to happen!

Overcoming Common Backpack Training Challenges

For many cat parents, getting your cat to enjoy using the backpack is not going to be plain sailing!

Here’s a few tips to keep things progressing when you think it's game over!

Dealing with Resistance

Your cat may well resist because the backpack is a challenge to their independence. Many cats have also come to distrust any type of carrier as it often leads to a trip (to the vet!) that they didn’t enjoy.

These are the things to remember and focus on if you’re having trouble getting your cat on board.

Introduce the backpack gradually: Just have the backpack in one of your cat’s favorite spots. Leave it open and let their curiosity take over. Eventually they will check it out and go inside.

Reward with treats: It’s cliched, but cats respond to treats like nothing else. With every step, reward them.

Be patient: Some cats are just going to need a lot of time to get into the whole idea of being carried in the backpack and going outside. Don’t rush.

Practice Indoors: Start off in the safety of your home and just do a little more each time as I’ve set out. Do not bundle your cat into the backpack and head straight outside!

Short trips to begin: Test out how your cat is coping with all the new stimuli by doing a lot of short walks near your home. That way you can get them back to familiarity and safety quickly.

Monitor their behavior: Look for any of the signs of distress or discomfort and take a break. Usually wait a day until your cat gets back in the pack of their own volition again. 

The one thing to remember is that you must never rush it and on no account let it ever feel to your cat the way they feel when you trick them into a carrier, zip it up and rush them to the vet. If you’ve done that with your cat before (and most of us have!) then this is exactly the opposite of how you are going to gain your cat’s trust!

Handling Distractions and Different Environments

Part of this process is getting your cat used to things they haven’t had to deal with before. As I’ve said several times already, how they well they do this can vary wildly from cat to cat.

I’ve not had too much of an issue at any stage with Meister, but my advice for helping your cat to be calm and happy in these new environments rests on these tips:

Keep to a routine: Make your training consistent and ongoing. If your cat gets used to going out every day or every few days, both in the training stages and from then on, they will be far better acclimatized to the outside world and will even learn to expect new noises and sounds. Don’t complete the training and stop for a few weeks to pick up outdoor trips again. Make it an ongoing regular thing.

Deal with their fear: If your cat is stressed in a new situation, simply remove them from it. Leave. Try again another time. Loud noises, strange smells or the presence of other unknown animals can be very hard for them to cope with. Some cats will always feel on edge around them whereas others will come to learn that they are safe. Offer continuous reassurance.

Avoid crowds and animals: When training your cat choose quiet locations and times when less people are around. If they always become less calm when there are a lot of distractions, continue to do your outdoor trips in places where that’s less prevalent. If they don’t cope well with the presence of dogs or farm animals, simply be vigilant and keep them away from those animals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I backpack train my cat?

Training your cat to use and feel safe and comfortable in a cat backpack allows you to take them on outdoor trips with you, whether that’s short urban walks or serious outdoor adventure hiking. It also means that you have created a way to easily transport your cat without them being stressed when the need arises, such as trips to the vet.

Do cats like cat backpacks?

They’re cats. Some do and some don’t. If you give them unhurried and supportive training and then ensure they can be in a safe and comfortable space, most cats will enjoy taking outdoor trips in a cat backpack.

Are cat backpacks allowed on planes?

Most cat backpacks will meet the carry-on requirements and dimensions of most airlines. Some are specifically airline and TSA approved, but the majority of brands will advise that you check the specific requirements of the airline you are travelling with.

Backpack Training Your Cat - It’s Pawsome!

Obviously, I love having a cat that is happy and excited by traveling with me in a backpack.

Although it can be a bit of a challenge to get your cat to the point of being at ease with the whole concept, it is well worth putting in the time and effort as the rewards - for you and your cat - are well worth it.

Good luck!