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Best Cat Sling (2024) – 10 Top Pet Carrier Sling Bags Rated

Posted in: Cat Supplies - Last Updated: December 19, 2023 - Author: Dexter Jones
Posted in Cat Supplies 
Last Updated: February 23, 2022  
Author:  Dexter Jones

Our team have a lot of experience with all the different ways you might need to carry your cat. Holly is an expert in the best cat backpacks (you may have seen her videos testing them), whilst most of us have tested standard cat carriers to destruction. Many trips to the vet and many reluctant cats!

But, there's a time and place where those aren't quite the right way to transport your cat - times when you need something more casual and flexible. Maybe something that your fiercely independent cat will take to more easily. A carrier in which they get enough privacy but also have their head free to look around so that they don't feel trapped or enclosed.

This could be when you turn to looking for the best cat sling

cat sling carrier

I've spent a lot of time taking my cat on outdoor trips using cat sling carriers. I've gained a wealth of experience in what works best for different scenarios. I've personally tested a wide range of cat sling bags, and in this guide I'm sharing my insights on the ones I've chosen to use because they stood out in terms of comfort, convenience, and safety.

Standard cat carriers can be incredibly traumatizing for some cats and potentially lead to them associating you holding them with you shoving them in a cramped and small crate; which isn't a fun association! 

A good cat sling solves this problem. They range from budget-friendly options for short, casual trips out of the home to those that are designed for more adventurous or frequent use. Some slings are perfect for quick trips to the vet or leisurely walks, while others are designed to be suitable for more serious travel and extended outdoor activities.

Best Cat Sling

Best Overall

TOMKAS Dog Carrier Sling with Adjustable Buckle Strap & Zip Pocket & Snap Closure for pet Puppy cat (M - Adjustable for 3-10 lbs, Red)

TOMKAS Cat Carrier

Best Cat Sling

Best Overall Choice

TOMKAS Dog Carrier Sling with Adjustable Buckle Strap & Zip Pocket & Snap Closure for pet Puppy cat (M - Adjustable for 3-10 lbs, Red)

TOMKAS Cat Carrier

The TOMKAS cat carrier sling is the cat sling bag that I reach for every time when I want to take my cat on a short trip out. It's the one he feels safe and comfortable in and I know he's going to get in without any fuss. He looks forward to it.

The TOMKAS comes in three sizes. I have the medium which is perfect for my average size cat. I love the feel of the fabric, the quality and especially thre safety leash that means my cat cannot jump out! It's a worthy winner of this test.

3 Top Cat Sling Picks – Best, Value & Premium

Before we get into the detail of the guide, we always provide a quick way for you to make a choice based on our testing and experience

As well as my hands-on testing and reviews of these cat slings, we have a vast audience on our social media channels of more than 1 million followers, whose feedback is added to our testing.

So based on my opinion, and that of our community, these are our three favourite cat sling carriers.

Our Top 3 Choices

Best Overall

TOMKAS Dog Carrier Sling with Adjustable Buckle Strap & Zip Pocket & Snap Closure for pet Puppy cat (M - Adjustable for 3-10 lbs, Red)

TOMKAS Cat Carrier

  • Comes in Three Different Sizes to Choose From
  • Offers a Security Ring to Keep Your Pets Snug
  • Available in a Reversible Design

Best Value

SlowTon Dog Carrier Sling, Thick Padded Adjustable Shoulder Strap Dog Carriers for Small Dogs, Puppy Carrier Purse for Pet Cat with Front Zipper Pocket Safety Belt Machine Washable (Grey M)

Slowton Cat Sling Carrier

  • Breathable Cotton Material
  • Fully Adjustable Shoulder Strap
  • Great Value and Overall Price

Premium Choice

FurryFido Adjustable Pet Sling/Dog cat Sling Carrier for Cats Dogs Bunny, Grey

FurryFido Sling Carrier

  • Multiple Ways to Secure Cat
  • Safety Collar to Keep Cat in Place
  • Adjustable Shoulder Strap for Ideal Fit

So that’s a quick overview for you!

Now let’s take a deeper look at the best cat slings. To start with, heres more detail on those top three pet sling picks.

1. TOMKAS Cat Carrier - Best Overall

TOMKAS Dog Carrier Sling with Adjustable Buckle Strap & Zip Pocket & Snap Closure for pet Puppy cat (M - Adjustable for 3-10 lbs, Red)

Specs

  • Available Colors: Black, Grey, Red, Rose Red, Royal Blue
  • Materials: Cotton
  • Weight Limit: Either 10 pounds or 15 pounds

The TOMKAS cat carrier comes in three differently-sized options to choose from. As I said, I have the medium which is perfect for my cat - he's your average domestic shorthair.

This cat sling carrier is a great option for those that are always on the move and need something nice to put their cat comfortably in. It’s quick and easy to use.

The fabric is high-quality, soft and washes well. It is a really great design and size and, judging by the number of great reviews of the TOMKAS, all pets seem to be very comfortable once inside this sling. Not just mine!

The cut and shape of this cat sling bag just seems to feel right to both you and your cat. It's easy to get them into it (by placing on the floor). The leash secures them safely and then as you lift it onto your shoulder the bag snugly wraps around letting their head poke out. You can secure it around them more or less by using the snap closures.

It's also very comfortable to carry with a broad well-padded shoulder strap.

One drawback of the older model I have is that this carrier didn't use to have an adjustable shoulder strap, making it a bit frustrating for people that are above average in size, built, or height. It was always fine for me, but now they do a version with an adjustable strap so the one reason not to buy this has now been fixed.

There's a large range of colors and some are reversible so your look can be swapped from day-to-day. It also has zipper pockets, making it great for holding accessories, treats or cat cookies.

I love the TOMKAS and its reasonably priced so it gets my overall pick!

Pros

  • Comes in Two Different Sizes to Choose From
  • Available in a Reversible Design
  • Offers a Safety Lock to Keep Your Pets Safe and Snug

Cons

  • Your cat might not like it!

2. SlowTon Hands-Free Padded and Adjustable Sling Carrier - Best Value

SlowTon Dog Carrier Sling, Thick Padded Adjustable Shoulder Strap Dog Carriers for Small Dogs, Puppy Carrier Purse for Pet Cat with Front Zipper Pocket Safety Belt Machine Washable (Grey M)

Specs

  • Available Colors: Green, Wine Red, Grey, and Dark Grey
  • Materials: Cotton
  • Weight Limit: 13 pounds

Another incredible offer for those that want a quality cat carrier sling but coming in at a very reasonable and affordable price.

The SlowTon Hands-Free Padded and Adjustable Sling Carrier does pretty much everything you need and more.

It is made from breathable cotton - so you won't have to worry about your kitty getting too hot while traveling with you (especially in those more difficult summer months).

The carrier sling also has a padded and adjustable shoulder strap so that you will similarly be comfortable while carrying them.

It comes with a safety collar hook to ensure your cat doesn't leap out or fuss if your hands aren't directly holding them.

It also has a zippered front pocket as well as four different colors to choose from.

Finally, it comes at a 13-pound weight limit, giving it a bit more room for larger cats than even our top pick, making these two a toss-up depending on how important price is a factor.

Pros

  • Breathable Cotton Material to Keep Your Cat Cool
  • Has a Padded and Adjustable Shoulder Strap for Comfort
  • Includes a Safety Hook to Better Keep Your Cat in Place
  • Has Zipped Front Pockets to Hold Your Accessories

Cons

  • Is More Expensive than the Doublerichard (Over Twice as Much)
  • Only Has One Way of Securing Your Cat

3. FurryFido Adjustable Carrier Sling - Best Premium

FurryFido Adjustable Pet Sling/Dog cat Sling Carrier for Cats Dogs Bunny, Grey

Specs

  • Available Colors: Chevron Grey & Khaki
  • Materials: Cotton
  • Weight Limit: 13 pounds

So, the first thing that we need to bring up is the cost of this carrier sling when compared to the others on the list.

If you are someone that is looking for a sling that is on the more cost-affordable side of things, there are plenty of other options here that are excellent. 

That said, if you're willing to spend that extra bit of money on a carrier sling for your cat, something that will be worth the money invested, then the FurryFido Adjustable Carrier Sling is the top choice for you.

This cat carrier sling has a fully adjustable shoulder strap as well as a safety collar. This ensures that both you and your kitty are as secure as possible, even if you're busy with something else in your hands.

The cat sling carrier also has two different methods of securing your cat, meaning if one way doesn't work, you have a secondary option that is just as good.

The sling is made entirely from high quality materials, meaning it is breathable and your moggy has access to fresh air in warmer weather or climates.

It also comes with a front pocket for all your accessories, like your wallet or phone.

Finally, while this is the most expensive option on this list, this isn't the most expensive carrier option to existing.

Why does this matter?

Because, this means, while it may cost a bit more than the average option, you won't be breaking the bank as you may think!

Pros

  • Additional Front Pocket for Accessories
  • Made from Breathable Cotton to Stay Cool and Insulated During Warmer Temperatures
  • Has Two Different Methods for Securing Your Cat
  • Has an Adjustable Shoulder Strap for the Ideal Fit

Cons

  • Is Slightly More Pricey Than You May Expect (but not by much!)

Alternative Cat Sling Carrier Picks

We do understand that the above picks may not be quite suitable for everyone and all pet owners have very individual needs.

Below we have listed some additional products that may suit your needs as well.

Providing multiple alternative picks is also an important part of our research and testing process.

4. Doublerichard Reversible Pet Cat Sling Carrier

Doublerichad Reversible Pet Dog Cat Sling Carrier Wrap Up to 11 Pounds for Small Dogs Cats Hand Free Outdoor Sling Adjustable Strap Tote Bag Breathable Shoulder Bag (Blue-unadjustable)

Specs

  • Available Colors: Pink, Black, Grey, Grey Chevron/Black & White Stripes
  • Materials: Polyester
  • Weight Limit: 11 pounds

The Doublerichard Reversible Pet Cat Sling Carrier is an incredibly priced and very affordable cat carrier sling that does everything you need at the perfect price point.

If you're looking for a cat carrier that does everything you need while truly giving you your money's worth.

It comes with an adjustable shoulder strap as well as a color safety latch. This ensures that your cat will stay secure and in place, regardless of its size.

Since it is an adjustable latch, however, that does mean you'll want to take a bit of time to practice on the proper length for your particular cat so that it isn't too tight or too loose.

The one downside to this cat carrier sling is the fact that it has a fairly low weight limit.

While 11 pounds isn't the lowest, it does potentially put bigger cats at risk of it being too snug or simply being too heavy to be carried safely inside.

Pros

  • Sold At a Stellar Price Point
  • Completely Machine Washable
  • Comes with an Adjustable Shoulder Strap
  • Has an Adjustable Color Safety Latch

Cons

  • Has a Slightly Lower Weight Limit Than is Ideal
  • Ring Closure Does Require a Bit of Practice Before Put On Perfectly

5. Jespet Goo Paws Comfy Sling

Comfy Pet Sling for Small Dog Cat with Adjustable Strap, Hand Free Sling Bag Breathable Soft Knit with Front Pocket, Travel Puppy Carrying Bag, Pet Pouch. Machine Washable (Grey)

Specs

  • Available Colors: Blue & Gray
  • Materials: Fleece Interior & Outside Knit Exterior
  • Weight Limit: 12 pounds

First off, if we were just looking at comfort and style, the odds are that the Jespet Goo Paws Comfy Sling would probably be much higher on this list.

The outside of the carrier is made from an incredibly stylish knit exterior while the inside is made from a stitched fleece material.

Unfortunately, as great as its benefits are, it has just as many costs that are pulling it down.

For one, the shoulder strap isn't adjustable, nor is it padded which is annoying.

This means you'll potentially deal with a bit of chafing if used for an extended period of time.

Similarly, the carrier itself can get pretty hot if you are in a warmer environment.

Pros

  • Adjustable Inner Tether to Best Secure Your Cat
  • Soft Fabric is Completely Machine Washable
  • Holds Several ZipperPockets

Cons

  • Shoulder Strap Isn't Adjustable
  • Warmer Temperatures May Be Very Unpleasant For Your Cat

6. YUDODO Pet Cat Sling Carrier

YUDODO Pet Dog Sling Carrier Breathable Mesh Travel Safe Sling Bag Carrier for Dogs Cats

Specs

  • Available Colors: Cyan, Blue, Brown, Black Reflective, Orange Reflective, Pink, Sky Blue
  • Materials: Leather & Mesh
  • Weight Limit: 5, 10, or 14 pounds

The YUDODO Pet Cat Sling Carrier has three different sizes to choose from based on the size of your cat.

It comes with a padded and adjustable shoulder strap that allows for an ideal fit for you and your pet, whilst also preventing potential chafing.

It comes with a small pocket that you can use to hold a phone and the sling is generally very durable.

The downside to this carrier, however, is the fact that it doesn't have an actual accessory pocket to store anything larger than a small phone.

In addition, the larger sizes can be pretty expensive and the material is heavy enough that using in warm weather can be very uncomfortable for your little one.

Pros

  • Pocket for Your Phone
  • Comes in Three Different Weight Sizes
  • Adjustable Shoulder Strap Length
  • Padded Shoulder Strap for Comfort
  • Made from Durable Leather

Cons

  • Leather Can Be Very Hot in Warmer Weather
  • Larger Options are Expensive

7. Katziela Expandable Sling Carrier

Expandable Pet Carrier Sling Bag - Small Dog, Puppy and Cat Carrier Front Shoulder Backpack w/Harness Strap - Carrying Pouch for ESA, Animal Travel - PU Leather Bottom, Mesh Pocket by Katziela (Black)

Specs

  • Available Colors: Black, Red, Green, Blue, Grey
  • Materials: Mesh Polyester
  • Weight Limit: 10 pounds

The Katziela Expandable Sling Carrier comes in two different sizes.

It comes with a safety collar to further help keep them from jumping out while your hands are full; as well as a padded shoulder strap to best keep your shoulder from chafing.

The Katziela Expandable Sling is made from an extremely breathable mesh polyester blend that is as breathable as it is comfortable, for you and your cat.

The only downside to this carrier is that it can be fairly expensive when compared to other carriers of similar quality.

It also has a fairly low weight limit and may not be enough to handle larger breeds or sized cats.

Pros

  • Mesh Design That is Breathable and Comfortable
  • Expandable Base So Cat Can Fit Snugly
  • Safety Collar Allows Cat to Stay in Place if You're Busy

Cons

  • Carrier has a Lower Weight Limit Compared to Other Carriers of its Size
  • Is More Expensive than Other Carrier Slings that are Made from the Same Material

8. Cuby Dog & Cat Sling Carrier

CUBY Dog and Cat Sling Carrier - Hands Free Reversible Pet Papoose Bag - Soft Pouch and Tote Design - Suitable for Puppy, Small Dogs Cats Outdoor (Classic Grey)

Specs

  • Available Colors: Classic Gray, Striped Gray, Light Gray, Ripple Gray, Gray, Blue, Classic Blue, Yellow, Pink
  • Materials: Cotton
  • Weight Limit: 14 pounds

One of the first things you'll notice about the Cuby Dog & Cat Sling Carrier is the fact that it comes in one of the widest varieties of color seen in a sling carrier.

On top of that, it also comes with a safety collar to help keep your little one safe and in place while on the go.

It offers a wide shoulder strap to give a greater level of security while moving around.

 It is very reasonably priced while also having enough space in the carrier that your cat won't feel completely restrained.

The slight downside is that, depending on your cat, this may potentially result in them struggling a bit more.

Pros

  • Affordable Pricing
  • Wider Shoulder Strap
  • Adjustable Carrying Pouch Size
  • Safety Collar for Cat

Cons

  • Strap not Adjustable
  • Compartment Isn't Fully Secure

9. FurryFido Classic Reversible Cat Carrier Sling

FurryFido Reversible Pet Sling Carrier for Cats Dogs up to 13+ lbs, Grey

Specs

  • Available Colors: Pink, Blue, Grey, Black
  • Materials: Cotton
  • Weight Limit: 13 pounds

An overall awesome option for most cat owners, the FurryFido Classic Reversible Cat Carrier Sling is the classical standard version of the aforementioned FurryFido Adjustable Carrier Sling.

This option is made from a soft cotton material that is fully breathable, thus ensuring your kitty is cool and comfortable in the warmer seasons.

The carrier sling also comes with a safety collar so that you can keep your little one from jumping out or running around while your hands are otherwise busy. I

n addition, the sling is completely reversible, meaning that each carrier has two separate design options to choose from.

On the flip side, it is worth noting that the carrier doesn't have an adjustable shoulder strap, so you'll have to be aware that if you're bigger or smaller than the average person, you may not have a particularly comfortable fit.

Pros

  • Made From Soft & Breathable Cotton
  • Reversible Material for Two Separate Design Choices
  • Comes with Safety Collar to Hold Cat in Place

Cons

  • Does Not Come with Adjustable Strap

10. Cozy Courier Pet Products Dog & Cat Carrier Sling

Cozy Courier Pet Products Grey Pet Sling Carrier for Small Dogs - Now with 50% More Padding and Secure Zippered Pocket

Specs

  • Available Colors: Gray
  • Materials: Cotton & Polyester
  • Weight Limit: 14 pounds

Even compared with many of the others on this list, the Cozy Courier Cat Carrier Sling is a great price for what it offers.

It comes with a respectable weight limit of 14lbs, meaning most cats will fit perfectly with this carrier.

It also has a padded and adjustable shoulder strap, making it very easy to move around.

The sling comes with extra pockets for accessories and has a safety collar so that your little kitty doesn't fuss too much while your hands are busy.

The downside to this carrier is primarily due to the excess space due to the larger weight limit.

While this won't be too big of an issue for larger cats that meet the weight limit, smaller ones will have a bit more room than they need, causing a lot of potential struggling and moving around when being put in place.

Pros

  • Available at a Very Affordable Price
  • Offers Additional Pockets for Different Accessories
  • Comes with a Safety Collar to Keep Cat Safe
  • Carrier Comes with Adjustable Shoulder Strap with Padding for Comfort

Cons

  • Made Primarily From Polyester, Thus Slightly Cheap Feeling
  • Compartment May Be Too Big for Smaller Cats

Cat Sling Buyer’s Guide

If you’ve never owned, or even heard of, a cat sling carrier then I am sure you have some questions as they certainly look like fairly bizarre kitty contraptions.

Fear not! In the next section we break down everything that you need to know about cat slings.

We’ll have you slinging with your cat in next to no time, in fact, I’m not too sure how safe that sounds!

The Importance of Cat Sling Adjustable Straps

Some budget cat slings do not have adjustable straps and that is something you should be aware of!

They are needed.

If the cat sling is designed without adjustable straps then it has been designed as a “one size fits all” product.

Well, we all know that in the real world that just doesn’t cut it. We all come in different sizes. Whether that be Short, skinny, tall, heavy or average build.

So some adjustment is going to be needed for a big percentage of us, even if you are of an average build.

The best cat slings have adjustable straps and are very affordably priced, so there’s absolutely no reason to choose a cat sling that doesn’t have any.

Don’t Always Opt for the Biggest!

Don’t be disappointed, in this situation bigger is not necessarily better!

It’s best to get a cat sling that fits your cat well so that they are properly secure. If the sling is too big it can easily swallow your cat and leave them completely smothered by the sling material.

Your kitty is certainly not going to enjoy that, and it’s not safe for them to be in that environment either.

Extra space means more room for them to move around which may easily result in them getting tangled up with the safety straps or even falling out of the cat sling entirely.

Finally, the majority of cats like to have a snug and close  fit.

They feel naturally much more secure this way and you will find they adapt to the cat sling advice much quicker.

It’s exactly the same reason that you see your cat curled up inside clothes or rugs, they like that feeling of security and warmth.

Always Get a Safety Strap

Every cat sling we have listed comes with a safety strap.

And with good reason.

Cats can get distracted very easily and they are lightning fast! 

A safety strap is a simple leash mechanism that fastens them into the cat sling.

Better safe than sorry! It’s a simple precaution, but something that you can’t do without skip.

Be Fashionable!

We know that you already look super fabulous carrying your cat around but let’s really push the boat out.

Yes, there are plenty of cat sling options out there that aren't very stylish but  there’s plenty of “catwalk” ready options. (Did you see what I did then?)

Some cat sling products are even reversible, so you get two kitty diva fashion statements in one!

Cat Sling - The Verdict

Today, carrying your cat with you safely and securely is easier than ever before.

In fact, the problem now is that there are almost too many great options to choose from when.

Ultimately, as all things are, it will all come down to your cat and what you imagine will be best for them.

"How big is she? Does he have a lot of hair? Is she super fussy and hyperactive?"

These are all things you'll have to take into consideration when deciding what will be the most ideal option on this list. 

If you have no idea where to start, check out either the Tomkas Cat Carrier or the Slowton Cat Carrier.

If you've got an extra couple of bucks for something especially nice, you can't go wrong with the FurryFido Adjustable Cat Carrier.

These are all great options for someone that wants an objectively good option even if they don't know where to start.

Just be prepared to get a lot of double-takes when people see you swaddled up with a cute little kitty and not a small baby.

Trust me, the reactions will never get old.

About the author

Dexter Jones has been a solid member of the ‘Mad Cat Dad’ club since time began! Dexter has been a keen cat writer for many years and lives in Croatia. He lives with his two tabby cats, Milly & Marly, who also flew in from the UK to start their new Adriatic island life together.

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