Picture this: It’s a beautiful Sunday morning. You grab your coffee and head out for a walk in the sunshine. But as you close the front door, you see a little fluffy face watching you sadly from the window.
Guilty feeling, right?
We love our cats. We treat them like our children. But for a long time, we thought cats had to stay inside 24/7 while dogs got to have all the fun.
But things are changing!
More and more "Cat Mums & Dads" in Australia are discovering a new way to bond with their furbabies. It’s called the backpack pet carrier for cats. It’s a special bag that lets your cat see the world safely while nestled right against your back.
If you are reading this, you probably have a few questions. Maybe you are wondering, "Is it safe?" or "Will my cat actually like it?" or "Where do I even start?"
Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered.
In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know. We will talk about safety, how to get your cat used to the bag without stress, and why adventures are great for your cat’s happiness.
Ready to explore? Let’s jump in.
The Big Question: Do Cats Actually Like Backpacks?
This is the number one question we get asked. It makes sense! We are used to seeing cats napping on the sofa or hiding under the bed. We think of them as lazy homebodies.
But the truth is a little different.
Most cats are naturally curious. In the wild, they would spend their days exploring, smelling new scents, and watching birds. When they are stuck inside a house all day, every day, they can actually get bored.
Think of a backpack pet carrier for cats like a safe little spaceship. It lets them explore the alien planet (the outdoors!) without any of the danger.
They can smell the fresh air, hear the birds, and watch people go by—all while feeling safe and secure next to their favourite person (that’s you!). It provides great mental stimulation, which keeps their brain happy and healthy.
So, do they like it? Many cats absolutely love it once they get used to it. It becomes their special "den" where they get to go on adventures.
Safety First: 3 Things Every Good Carrier Needs
Before you buy just any bag, you need to make sure it is safe. Your cat is precious, and their safety is the most important thing.
Here are three things to look for in a quality backpack:
1. Good Airflow is a Must Australia gets hot! Whether you choose a mesh bag or a bubble style, ventilation is key. You want to make sure fresh air can easily flow in and out of the bag. This keeps your kitty cool and comfortable, even on a warm day.
2. The "Escape-Proof" Clip This is non-negotiable. A good backpack will have a built-in leash or lanyard inside the bag. You clip this to your cat's harness. This ensures that even if you open the window or top for them to peek out, they cannot jump out and run away. It gives you total peace of mind.
3. A Sturdy Bottom Imagine trying to stand on a floor that keeps sinking! It would be scary, right? Your cat needs a backpack with a firm, sturdy bottom base. This helps them sit or stand confidently without the bag sagging around them. When they feel stable, they feel safe.
Step-by-Step: How to Train Your Cat (The "No-Force" Method)
Okay, so you have your backpack. Do not just put your cat inside and walk out the door! That might scare them.
We want your cat to think the backpack is the best thing in the world. Here is a simple 4-step guide to get started:
Step 1: The Living Room Introduction When the backpack arrives, just put it on the floor in your living room. Open all the zippers and windows. Let your cat sniff it and investigate it on their own terms. Do not force them near it.
Step 2: The Treat Trap Start putting their favourite treats or toys inside the bag. Feed them their dinner near the bag. This teaches them that Backpack = Yummy Snacks. You want to create a happy feeling every time they see it.
Step 3: The "Elevator" Ride Once they are happy sitting inside, zip it up gently and lift the bag off the ground for just a few seconds. Talk to them in a calm, happy voice. Then put it down and give them a treat immediately. This gets them used to the movement.
Step 4: The First Adventure Start small! Your first walk shouldn't be a 5km hike. Just walk to your letterbox and back. Or walk around your backyard. If they seem relaxed, you can go a little further next time.
Spotlight: The Outback Explorer
If you are looking for the perfect starter bag, we love The Outback Explorer.
We designed this specifically for Australian cat mums who want to get outdoors. It checks all the safety boxes we talked about earlier.
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Super Breathable: It is made with high-quality mesh, so your cat gets plenty of fresh air and can smell all the exciting scents of the neighbourhood.
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Safety Lanyard: It includes the all-important built-in clip to attach to your cat’s harness.
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Comfy for You: It has padded shoulder straps and extra pockets for your phone, keys, and cat treats.
It is lightweight, secure, and gives your cat a front-row seat to the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can my cat stay in the backpack? It depends on your cat! When you first start, keep trips very short—maybe 10 to 15 minutes. As they get used to it, many cats are happy to hang out for an hour or more. Just remember to take breaks so they can stretch their legs and have a drink of water.
Do I still need to put a harness on my cat? Yes, absolutely. For safety, your cat should wear a secure harness inside the backpack. You then clip the backpack’s built-in safety lanyard to the harness. This ensures that if you open the bag for them to peek out, they cannot bolt away if they get spooked.
Is a backpack pet carrier for cats heavy to carry? Not really! The Outback Explorer itself is very lightweight. Most of the weight will come from your cat. The padded shoulder straps help distribute the weight evenly across your back, making it much easier than carrying a handheld carrier case.
Can my indoor cat really handle the outdoors? Yes, but take it slow. The outdoors can be loud and bright. The backpack acts like a "safe zone" for them. If they seem scared or start meowing loudly, it’s okay to head home and try again another day. Patience is key!
Ready for an Adventure?
Being a "Cat Mum" doesn’t mean you have to leave your best friend behind every time you leave the house.
With a little bit of patience and the right gear, you can open up a whole new world for your kitty. Whether it’s a trip to the local coffee shop, a walk along the beach, or just a stroll around the block, exploring together is a wonderful way to bond.
Remember, the most important thing is safety and having fun. Listen to your cat, go at their pace, and enjoy the journey.
Ready to get started? Check out The Outback Explorer Mesh Carrier here and start planning your next trip today!
