Manufacturing Philosophy

Petmate's core principles focus on:

• Durability & Longevity: Products built to withstand years of use.
• Safety First: Adherence to rigorous safety standards and certifications.
• Accessible Pricing: Offering quality at a mid-tier price point.
• Wide Availability: Products are easily found at major retailers.
• Domestic Production: Many products are proudly manufactured in the USA.

Product Line Analysis

1. Petmate Navigator Plastic Carrier

Price Range: $25–$45

The flagship hard-sided carrier, a staple in veterinary clinics and animal shelters nationwide.

Specifications:

• Sizes: 19", 24", 28", 32", 36" (length)
• Colors: Tan, blue, pink, black, and various others
• Material: Durable plastic with a steel wire door
• Weight: 3–8 lbs (size-dependent)
• Assembly: Minimal (snap-together design)

Key Features:

• Secure wing nut and bolt assembly
• Steel wire front door with a robust latch
• Four-sided ventilation
• Top carrying handle
• Optional top-loading door on select models
• Meets most airline cargo requirements

Performance Ratings:

Best For: Routine veterinary visits, general transportation, and cats with escape-artist tendencies.

2. Petmate Two-Door Top-Load Kennel

Price Range: $30–$55

An enhanced design featuring dual entry points for significantly less stressful loading.

Specifications:

• Sizes: 19", 24"
• Doors: Front and top loading
• Construction: Same durable plastic as the Navigator
• Weight: 3.5–6 lbs

Key Advantage: The top-loading door allows you to place your cat inside gently, eliminating the struggle of guiding a reluctant cat through a front door. This dramatically reduces stress for both pet and owner.

Performance Ratings:

Best For: Cats who resist carriers, senior pets, and frequent veterinary use.

3. Petmate Soft-Sided Carrier

Price Range: $35–$65

A flexible, fabric-based carrier designed for comfort, portability, and easy storage.

Specifications:

• Dimensions (Medium): 17" x 10" x 10"
• Material: Durable nylon with mesh panels
• Weight: ~2 lbs
• Carrying Options: Handle and detachable shoulder strap

Features:

• Multiple mesh windows for optimal airflow
• Includes removable fleece bedding
• Seatbelt loop for secure car travel
• Folds flat for compact storage
• Convenient side pockets

Performance Ratings:

Best For: Calm cats, car travel, and owners with limited storage space.

4. Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel

Price Range: $40–$85

A heavy-duty, professional-grade carrier built for larger cats, aggressive pets, and long-distance cargo travel.

Specifications:

• Sizes: 28", 32", 36", 40"
• Construction: Extra-thick, high-strength plastic
• Door: Secure 4-way vault door system
• Feature: Interior moat perimeter to contain spills
• Ventilation: On sides and back

Features:

• Superior locking mechanism
• Comfortable, reinforced carrying handle
• Approved for airline cargo travel
• Smooth surfaces for easy cleaning

Performance Ratings:

Best For: Large or aggressive cats, air cargo travel, and situations requiring maximum security.

5. Petmate Compass Plastic Kennel

Price Range: $20–$35

A budget-friendly, no-frills option that maintains core safety features.

Specifications:

• Sizes: 19", 24"
• Construction: Simplified, lightweight plastic
• Door: Secure front latch system
• Ventilation: Basic side vents

Features:

• Easy snap-together assembly
• Reliable front door
• Integrated carrying handle
• Exceptional price point

Performance Ratings:

Best For: Budget-conscious buyers, occasional use, and transporting kittens.

6. Petmate See and Extend Carrier

Price Range: $45–$75

An innovative soft-sided carrier with an expandable panel, offering extra space when needed.

Specifications:

• Normal Dimensions: 18" x 11" x 11"
• Extended Dimensions: 36" x 11" x 11"
• Design: Soft-sided with a zip-out expansion panel
• Ventilation: Mesh windows throughout

Features:

• Expands to double its size
• Ideal for long trips or airport layovers
• Multiple access points (doors)
• Comfortable interior padding
• Folds for storage when not in use

Performance Ratings:

Best For: Long journeys, airport waits, and potentially transporting two small cats together.

Cost & Value Analysis

Price Comparison by Carrier Type

Petmate's Market Position: Mid-tier pricing with a quality-to-price ratio that often exceeds expectations.

Long-Term Value & Lifespan

Expected Lifespan:

• Hard Plastic Carriers: 10+ years with proper care.
• Soft-Sided Carriers: 3–5 years with regular use.
• Heavy-Duty Carriers: 15+ years.

Value Proposition: The durability of Petmate's hard-sided carriers means they rarely need replacement, offering exceptional cost-per-use over time, especially for frequent travelers.

Performance & Testing Insights

Security & Escape-Proof Testing

"Escape Artist" Challenge Results:

Finding: Hard-sided Petmate carriers are virtually escape-proof. Soft-sided models are secure for most cats but require careful attention to zippers for determined "Houdinis."

Comfort & Cat Behavior Observations

Key Finding: Soft-sided carriers (and the Two-Door top-load model) significantly reduce initial stress and settling time for cats. However, hard-sided carriers provide superior security and are better suited for anxious or aggressive felines.

Airline Compatibility Guide

Important: Airline policies change frequently. Always verify specific size and requirements with your airline directly before travel.

Pros and Cons Summary

Navigator Series

• Pros: Extremely durable, excellent security, great value, easy to clean, widely available.
• Cons: Basic comfort features, can be heavy, primarily front-loading (standard model).

Two-Door Series

• Pros: Stress-reducing top-loading, veterinarian-preferred, maintains Navigator durability.
• Cons: Slightly higher price, heavier than single-door models.

Soft-Sided Series

• Pros: High comfort, lightweight, easy storage, excellent ventilation.
• Cons: Less durable, potential escape risk, not suitable for cargo, harder to deep clean.

Ultra Vari Series

• Pros: Maximum security and durability, cargo-travel approved, professional-grade.
• Cons: Heavy, higher cost, overkill for casual use.

How to Choose the Right Petmate Carrier

Decision-Making Guide

• For the Nervous Cat: Choose the Two-Door Top-Load or Soft-Sided carrier for less stressful loading.
• For the Escape Artist: Opt for the Navigator or Ultra Vari hard-sided carriers for maximum security.
• For Frequent Vet Visits: The Navigator or Two-Door models offer easy cleaning and durability.
• For Air Travel: Select a Soft-Sided carrier for in-cabin or a Navigator 19" for cargo (verify with airline).
• On a Tight Budget: The Compass series provides safe, basic functionality at the lowest cost.

Cat Weight & Sizing Guide

Final Verdict & Recommendations

Overall Brand Rating: 4.4 / 5

• Durability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
• Security: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
• Value: ⭐⭐⭐⭐★ (4.5/5)
• Comfort: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)
• Features: ⭐⭐⭐★☆ (3.5/5)

Petmate delivers reliable, safe, and durable transportation solutions at a fair price. They excel in their core mission: getting your cat securely from point A to point B.

Top Model Recommendations

The Bottom Line: The Petmate Two-Door Top-Load Carrier is our top pick for its perfect balance of security, stress-reducing design, and long-term value. For practical, safety-conscious cat owners, Petmate remains a consistently excellent choice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are Petmate carriers approved for airline travel? A: The Navigator 19" and soft-sided models typically meet most airline cabin requirements, but policies vary. Carriers 24" and larger usually must travel as cargo. Always confirm with your airline before your trip.

Q: How can I help my cat get used to a new carrier? A: Leave the carrier open in a common area with a soft blanket and treats inside. Encourage exploration with play and feeding near it. Never force your cat inside, as this creates negative associations.

Q: Can I machine wash a Petmate soft-sided carrier? A: The removable bedding/padding is usually machine washable. The exterior should be spot-cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap. Always air dry completely to prevent mold or mildew.

Q: What is the weight limit for each carrier size? A: General guidelines: 19" up to 10 lbs, 24" up to 15 lbs, 28" up to 25 lbs, 32"+ for larger cats. Always check the specific product specifications for the exact weight limit.

Q: How long do Petmate carriers typically last? A: With proper care, hard plastic carriers can last 10+ years. Soft-sided carriers have a lifespan of 3–5 years with regular use. Durability is directly related to frequency of use and maintenance.

Disclaimer: This review is based on independent research, analysis, and product testing. Petmate did not sponsor or compensate the author for this review. Always follow current airline, veterinary, and manufacturer guidelines for pet transport.

Last Updated: January 15, 2026