Best Carriers for Bombays

By PetEssentialist Editorial · Updated July 2026

We independently research and pick every product. When you buy through our links we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. How this works.

🏆 Quick answer

Our top pick is Petmate Two Door Top Load Hard-Sided Cat Carrier — best for Regular vet visits and reducing travel anxiety. Why it wins: Reduces travel anxiety with top-loading design.

The Bombay's medium size and weight, typically ranging from 6-11 pounds, require a carrier that balances comfort and security. When traveling with their Bombay, owners often face the challenge of managing their cat's travel anxiety, making a well-ventilated and easy-to-load carrier essential. Regular vet visits are also crucial for this breed, given their predisposition to heart issues and brachycephalic airway problems, making a carrier that is easy to load and transport a priority. Given the Bombay's affectionate and social nature, they thrive on attention and interaction. However, their moderate energy level and potential for vocalization mean they can become stressed in confined or poorly ventilated spaces. A carrier that accommodates their need for airflow and visibility is vital for reducing travel stress. The right carrier can make a significant difference in the travel experience for both the Bombay and their owner. By considering the breed's specific needs and characteristics, owners can choose a carrier that ensures safe, comfortable, and stress-free travel.

What to look for

Size and Weight Capacity

The carrier should be sized to accommodate the Bombay's adult weight and length comfortably. A medium-sized carrier is usually the best fit, providing enough room for the cat to stand up, turn around, and lie down without feeling cramped. Consider a carrier with a sturdy construction that can support the cat's weight without collapsing or tipping over.

Ventilation and Visibility

Given the Bombay's potential for brachycephalic airway issues, good ventilation is crucial. Look for carriers with mesh panels or windows that provide airflow and allow the cat to see their surroundings, reducing anxiety and stress during travel.

Loading and Unloading

Top-loading carriers can be particularly beneficial for anxious cats like the Bombay, as they reduce the need for the cat to be pulled out or forced into the carrier. This feature can significantly reduce stress during vet visits and travel.

Travel Compliance

For owners who plan to travel by air with their Bombay, an airline-compliant carrier is essential. These carriers are designed to fit under airline seats or in cargo holds, ensuring that the cat can travel safely and comfortably.

Our top picks

SponsoredHow we choose →

#	Product	Best for
1	Petmate Two Door Top Load Hard-Sided Cat Carrier	Regular vet visits and reducing travel anxiety
2	Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Pet Carrier	Air travel and compliance with airline regulations
3	Petsfit Expandable Soft-Sided Cat Carrier	Versatility and expandable space for comfort
4	Frisco Two-Door Top-Load Plastic Cat Carrier, Extra Large	Larger or more anxious Bombays requiring extra space
5	Necoichi Portable Stress-Free Cat Carrier	Owners seeking a highly portable and stress-free solution

Petmate Two Door Top Load Hard-Sided Cat Carrier

Best for Regular vet visits and reducing travel anxiety

The Petmate Two Door Top Load Hard-Sided Cat Carrier is an excellent choice for Bombays due to its top-loading feature, which minimizes stress during loading and unloading. The hard-sided construction provides a sense of security, and the two-door design allows for easy access and visibility. This carrier is particularly suited for vet visits and short trips, where the cat's comfort and reduced anxiety are paramount.

✓ Reduces travel anxiety with top-loading design
✓ Provides a sense of security with hard-sided construction
✓ Easy access and visibility through two doors

✕ May not be suitable for long trips or air travel due to size and weight

Check price →

Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Pet Carrier

Best for Air travel and compliance with airline regulations

For Bombays that travel by air, the Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Pet Carrier is a top choice. Its soft-sided design and spring wire frame allow it to flex and fit under airline seats, while mesh ventilation panels ensure good airflow and visibility. This carrier is ideal for owners who frequently travel with their cat, providing a comfortable and compliant travel solution.

✓ Airline-approved for safe and compliant travel
✓ Soft-sided design for comfort and flexibility
✓ Good ventilation and visibility

✕ May not provide the same sense of security as hard-sided carriers

Check price →

Petsfit Expandable Soft-Sided Cat Carrier

Best for Versatility and expandable space for comfort

The Petsfit Expandable Soft-Sided Cat Carrier offers versatility and comfort for Bombays. Its expandable side extension provides extra room for the cat to stretch out, reducing feelings of confinement. This carrier is suitable for short to medium trips and is a good option for owners who want a lightweight, easy-to-carry solution.

✓ Expandable design for extra comfort and space
✓ Lightweight and easy to carry
✓ Soft-sided for flexibility and ventilation

✕ May not be as durable as hard-sided carriers

Check price →

Frisco Two-Door Top-Load Plastic Cat Carrier, Extra Large

Best for Larger or more anxious Bombays requiring extra space

Although the Bombay is a medium-sized breed, some individuals may require more space due to their personality or size. The Frisco Two-Door Top-Load Plastic Cat Carrier, Extra Large, provides ample room and is an excellent choice for larger or more anxious Bombays. Its top-loading feature and two doors ensure easy access and reduced stress.

✓ Provides extra space for larger or more anxious cats
✓ Top-loading design reduces stress
✓ Durable plastic construction

✕ May be too large for smaller vehicles or airline compliance

Check price →

Necoichi Portable Stress-Free Cat Carrier

Best for Owners seeking a highly portable and stress-free solution

The Necoichi Portable Stress-Free Cat Carrier is designed with portability and stress reduction in mind. Its ultra-lightweight and collapsible design make it easy to carry and store, while the wide top opening facilitates easy loading and unloading. This carrier is ideal for short trips and vet visits, where ease of use and minimizing stress are key priorities.

✓ Ultra-lightweight and portable
✓ Collapsible design for easy storage
✓ Wide top opening for stress-free loading

✕ May not be suitable for longer trips or air travel

Check price →

Frequently asked questions

What size carrier is best for a Bombay cat?

A medium-sized carrier is usually the best fit for a Bombay, providing enough room for the cat to stand up, turn around, and lie down without feeling cramped. Consider a carrier that is approximately 24 inches long, 16 inches wide, and 14 inches tall for optimal comfort.

How can I reduce my Bombay's travel anxiety?

Reducing travel anxiety in Bombays can be achieved by using a carrier that provides good ventilation and visibility, such as one with mesh panels or windows. Top-loading carriers can also minimize stress during loading and unloading. Gradual introduction to the carrier, making it a comfortable and familiar space, can also help reduce anxiety.

Are soft-sided carriers suitable for air travel with my Bombay?

Yes, soft-sided carriers can be suitable for air travel if they are specifically designed and approved for airline use. These carriers are typically made to flex and fit under airline seats and provide good ventilation and visibility for the cat. However, always check with the airline for their specific requirements and recommendations on pet carriers.

How often should I clean my Bombay's carrier?

It's recommended to clean your Bombay's carrier regularly to prevent the buildup of bacteria and odors. A mild detergent and warm water can be used to wipe down the carrier, and it should be thoroughly dried before use. Cleaning the carrier after each use can help maintain your cat's health and hygiene.

Can I use a carrier for my Bombay that is also used for other pets?

While it might be convenient to use a carrier for multiple pets, it's generally recommended to have a separate carrier for each pet to prevent the transfer of diseases and reduce stress. If you must use a shared carrier, ensure it is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected between uses to maintain your pets' health and safety.

For Bombay owners, selecting the right carrier is crucial for ensuring their cat's comfort, safety, and reduced stress during travel and vet visits. By considering the breed's specific needs, such as size, ventilation, and loading ease, owners can choose a carrier that best suits their Bombay's requirements. Whether prioritizeing airline compliance, versatility, or ease of use, there is a carrier designed to meet the unique needs of both the cat and the owner, making travel and vet visits a less daunting experience for all involved.

More for your Bombay

Other breed-matched picks worth a look.

Best Carriers for other breeds

The same category, matched to a different breed.