Do Cats Like Strollers? Let’s Talk (Broaden Their Horizons 2018)

In short, yes and no.

Cats may like some strollers or some may prefer backpacks.

Overall, we really would go for the Pet Gear No-Zip for multiple kitties and the Pet Gear Happy Trail for the single kitty.

Of course, there are some other factors that come into play like, what kind of stroller you buy, if you choose the right one, introduce them to it in a positive way and your cat’s personality (we’ll talk more about that below).

Quick Glance:

Mission Impossible: Cat Nation

When sorting through the many, many pet stroller options, it seemed like quite a daunting task to pick just one.

After all, different people are going to need different options based on their specific trekking needs.

So, to simplify the process, I went on Amazon (well, we all shop there and they are trusted) and picked the highest rated strollers based on a few different categories.

Highest RATED Stroller Overall

⭐ HPZ Pet Rover Premium

*click the link above to see real user images of the Pet Rover – pictures are of dogs but you can easily put your kitty in there 🙂

This model, in my opinion, is the Range Rover of pet strollers.

 

Reviewers lauded the durable design, ample size and ease of use, but despite the description stating it had a divider, it doesn’t.

This stroller will work for you if: 

• You’re looking for something durable but easy to use
• If you’re looking for something a bit more stylish – this is your baby!
• If you’re a fan of washable inserts – here you go!

This stroller will not work for you if: 

• If your Fluffy and FiFi need to be separated on the road, you may need to look elsewhere, because this stroller does not have a divider.
• If you’re going to use it also for heavier pets (like a dog) – reviews have said that if a heavier pet sits towards the back of the stroller it may become unbalanced easily.

With 4.6 out of 5 stars, this was the overall highest rated pet stroller with the best reviews.

On the pricier side, it may not fit all budgets but is a great investment for those planning to put on the miles.

Best ECONOMY Model – Your Budget Stroller

?The OxGord Pet Stroller

*click the link above to see images of the OxGord.

If you are looking for a “starter” stroller and aren’t sure if pushing a stroller is something you and kitty are going to stick with, this is a great way to give strolling a spin without breaking the bank.

Most suited for sidewalks and other smooth pavements, this is not an all-terrain vehicle for the truly adventurous, but more suited to sidewalks and walking paths.

 

This stroller will work for you if: 

• You’re a bit unsure about the whole “stroller” thing and would like to try it out without breaking the bank
• If you’re living in the city (as it’s really good on pavement but not so great on other terrains)

This stroller will not work for you if: 

• You live in the countryside or are looking for an all-terrain type of stroller
• If you’re looking for something luxurious or higher end

As it turns out, there are cheaper strollers out there than this one.

However, according to reviews, this one had the highest rating for the lowest price.

The Super ADVENTURER – Your Cat Jogging Stroller

?Best Choice 2 in 1 Pet Stroller

*click the link above to see images of the Best Choice

For those who have kitties that like to feel the wind in their whiskers, a stroller that holds up to jogging speeds and can be converted to attach to a bike allows for a whole lot more adventure.

This stroller will work for you if: 

• You want to take your furry friend on a jog or hike/bike with you
• If you’re active and/or live in a countryside setting (the stroller is built for rougher terrain)

This stroller will not work for you if: 

• You live in a city, as this stroller is more for rougher terrain and is therefore quite large.
• If you’re looking for something to be potentially compact or easy storage.

Reviewers stated this stroller was great for off-roading adventures, like trail running, as well.

Best DOUBLE Pet Stroller – More than one?

??OxGord Double Pet Stroller

*click the link above to see some real user videos for these side by side strollers!

For those of us who are pet-parents to multiple kitties, this may just be what you need!

Having separate compartments for your cats ensures they feel safe and secure but can also enjoy the scenery together, side by side.

This stroller will work for you if: 

• You have multiple cats who both want your attention (or to go outside) at the same time.
• If you have multiple pets (the compartments are completely separated, so one side can be for your cat and one can be for your dog).

This stroller will not work for you if: 

• You only have one cat (or only have one cat interested in going out on a stroll).
• If you’re looking for something that can be super compact (because this is a double stroller, it is a bit larger).

The reviews are in for this double stroller and people are loving the spacious compartments and ability to take both cats out at once with ease!

You’re Ready for Your First Stroll…

The Lord of the Cats: The Fellowship of the Felines

After finding your perfect stroller and getting your traveling partner used to their harness and stroller, it’s time to hit the road.

Some things to think about before you leave the house: 

• Your cat’s safety is the most important thing here.
  Making sure your cat is secure in the enclosure, has a harness and collar on (in case you take her out or she escapes) is a must.
  Getting your cat comfortable and ensuring she has enough space in their stroller are also on the checklist before leaving your home.
• Bringing food and water dishes are a must – don’t want your cat getting too hungry or dehydrated while you’re out!
• Bringing along some positive reinforcement treats or toys for your cat when they behave well is also a great way to reward them for a good day on the town.
• Planning your route and scheduling bathroom breaks for your cat ensures you have a good walk and don’t end up in a messy situation once you arrive back home.

Some things to keep in mind while you’re out on the town with your cat in their new ride: 

• Because of their scaredy-cat nature, most domesticated felines would rather run than fight.
  If your cat has an unexpected tantrum on your voyage, resist the urge to open the enclosed stroller.
  A panicked cat may bolt or bite in their frantic attempt to escape the perceived threat, injuring them or you in the process.
• It’s better to have a towel you can throw over the mesh, blocking their view of the offending party, and push on out of the troublesome area.
• Depending on how long you plan to be away from home, pack some healthy kitty snacks or kibble, bottled water, and a bowl.
• You may also want to put a comfortable cushion in the stroller, and if you worry about potential “accidents” also put down a pee pee pad to help mitigate any mess.
• Don’t forget to positively interact with your cat while out and about so she learns that to love your little walks as much as you do!
• As you continue expanding your adventures, you may consider other options, like kitty backpacks, to hit those roads even less traveled.

Have Cat, Will Travel!

“Creative Commons Felix The Cat. King of his stroller.” by Beth Skinner is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Through the years, my various fine feline friends have had a wide variety of reactions to outdoor adventures.

Bubs was a timid homebody who wouldn’t step a paw outdoors if tempted with an 8-ounce tuna steak.

However, Foo foo and Coo Coos, the feline equivalents of human adrenaline junkies look for every opportunity to escape.

Their idea of a great time is chasing sprinklers, climbing fences and going nose-to-nose with each other, much to my concern and dismay.

It’s no surprise that a cat wandering along in the great outdoors is at risk.

Speeding cars, prey-driven neighborhood dogs, and hungry wildlife can make an ordinary adventure dangerous for our fuzzy fur babies.

What if we could give them a safe, low-stress way to get some adventure?

So, the question is:

• Would your cat enjoy going on regular outings?
• Could there be more to your indoor cat’s life than catnip and napping in sunbeams?

And if your puss wants to star in his or her own adventure movie, what is the safest way to take Senior Fuzzybutt on a road trip?

How Do I Know If My Cat Will Like a Pet Stroller?

The Cat of Monte Cristo

The first thing you need to do is determine if your cat is a good match for outdoor stroller travel.

But here’s the thing.

How do you determine if your cat desires to become a world famous traveler?

The ASPCA has come up with a system that categorizes felines into 9 different personality types:

• The Private Investigator
• The Secret Admirer
• The Love Bug
• The Executive
• The Sidekick
• The Personal Assistant
• The MVP
  
• The Party Animal
  
• The Leader of the Band

* Read more about cat personality types here.

Originally intended to better match shelter kitties with adoptive families, this system also determines how social, active and adventurous a particular puss may be.

In short, the cat personalities that I have bolded and underlined are most likely to enjoy outdoor stroller travel (based on their personality type).

Usually, kitties that fit into the personality types of “MVP,” “Party Animal” and “Leader of the Band” will be those most likely to enjoy the great outdoors.

An even simpler way to figure out your cat’s personality is to watch your kitty’s actions and behavior.

1. Does your cat hide when visitors come over?
   
2. Does Mrs. Prissypaws pounce all over new toys?
   
3. Lastly, how does your cat tend to react to open doors and windows?

If you have a budding Houdini running around your home, your cat is most certainly interested in making a break from their indoor confines.

Allowing them to have regular safe, supervised outdoor excursions on your terms could help to quell their dangerous desires to escape.

What Are The Benefits of Using a Pet Stroller with My Cat?

Good news!

There are actually quite a few benefits for you and your cat when it comes to getting into a routine of going for walks together.

FOR ELDERLY CATS:

The change in scenery and fresh air will do wonders for them without having them over-exert themselves.

This is great for cats that have arthritis or mobility issues.

FOR INDOOR CATS:

If you have a cat and you live in a relatively small location (like an apartment, semi or small townhouse), it’s a great way to get your cat out and about, giving them more space and freedom in the world.

“Creative Commons Comfy cat stroller for heavy kitty!” by John Talbot is licensed under CC BY 2.0

If you get your cat used to being on a harness and leash as well as the stroller, you can combine the two and maybe take them to an open park or forest and let them wander around getting the exercise they crave but can’t get in your small space at home.

FOR OUTDOOR CATS:

As someone who has had an indoor cat become an outdoor cat, I’ve seen just how much my cats love their time outside.

In the beginning, it was an easy adjustment for them but it definitely wasn’t an easy adjustment for me.

I was so paranoid about the traffic or them getting lost.

We did the leash and harness thing for a while but I eventually let them off leash and they wander our yard freely now.

Think about it.

If you’re not ready to take that big step of letting your cat be unsupervised outside, a stroller is a great way to get the freedom they want and the security/supervision that you want.

How Do I Get My Cat Ready for A Pet Stroller?

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Kitty

As it turns out, no matter how adventurous a feline, just picking them up and dropping them out into the great unknown could frighten even the most lion-hearted cat.

Before making plans to take your kitty hiking up Mt. Everest, it’s a great idea to ease your puss into the idea of becoming the first feline Edmund Hillary with short walks around the block.

So, where do I start?

Well, starting off with getting your cat used to a harness is a great idea.

Although your kitty most likely will be in an enclosed stroller or other safe enclosed space, sometimes you may need to let your fuzzy traveling companion out for a bathroom break or to meet admiring fans.

This makes all the difference; having your cat already accustomed to the harness and a leash is an excellent way to ensure your cat’s safety and well being when traveling.

If you are a frequent traveler who wants your cat to be comfortable in the stroller as well as on leash, it’s a good idea to introduce your cat to the leash and harness first, and then start with the stroller.

For tips on how to get your cat trained on a harness and leash, check out the video below: 

 

Also, don’t be surprised if your cat suddenly becomes shy when faced with the great unknown.

If your cat starts getting overwhelmed, he or she may want to hide or escape back to the comfort of their home.

Remember, cats are usually the ones preyed upon in the wild, and especially old, sick or injured cats may be even more cautious about their surroundings than one that is young and fit.

Can I Take Both My Cats in The Stroller at the Same Time?

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Cats

Generally, more than one cat should not be in a single stroller at the same time.

You see…many of us that have four-legged children have more than one.

And just like having human children, what one gets, the other one wants, too.

So if you have two kitties of similar temperament, they may both want to go on the road with you.

So, if you plan to take two or more adventurers with you on your travels, you are going to need enough room for them to cohabitate comfortably.

Just as two toddlers in a backseat of a car will eventually evolve into a screaming match of “Stop touching me!!”, so will two or more cats squished into too tiny space.

Do yourself and your fur babies a favor and give them plenty of space to not only stand up and turn around but also have some additional breathing room.

If Foo Foo and Tanta don’t get along at home, don’t expect things to miraculously improve on the road.

But there’s a solution! 

Seeking a stroller with separate compartments for your cantankerous kitties is the best way to make sure everyone has a great time.

How Do I Find a Good Pet Stroller for Our Lifestyle?

The Secret Life of Walter Kitty

So, you have gotten your feline traveler(s) used to their new harness and leash, but taking your cat for a stroll is not much of an adventure.

Few cats walk on a leash like a dog, so trying to go any distance away from home is going to make for very short walks with very little adventure.

The safest and easiest way to hit the road and get in some miles is to purchase a pet stroller.

Shockingly:

There are a LOT of strollers out there, so how do you choose the best vehicle for your precious puss?

Nevertheless, by following these simple tips, you can find the ride that both you and your cat will enjoy.

After determining how many critters will be accompanying you on your travels and how much space you will need, here are some other concerns that need to weigh into your pre-purchase decision.

1. 1. Type of terrain.
      If you plan to hit the city pavement or travel on unpaved trails, there are different factors you need to look for in your vehicle. Just as it wouldn’t be wise to take a Mini Cooper off-roading, you should find a stroller with shocks and suspension to help take the additional jolt out of the ride.
   2. Privacy needs.
      Where some cats are social and excited to meet the world head-on, others may love the fresh air but are not interested in making new friends. Most strollers are enclosed at least partially in some form of mesh to allow air flow and others have sections covered in thicker material to allow for privacy and to shield from sun or weather.
      
   3. Storage requirements.
      Depending on if you are storing your stroller in your home or car, you may want one that folds uptight or one that may convert to a cat bed for your kitty to enjoy when at home. Also, how easy it is to set up will be important if you will be traveling by car to your strolling location.
   4. It’s not all about your cat.
      Your needs are important, too. If you aren’t enjoying your stroll because it leaves you with a sore back or an aching neck, you eventually will stop taking Fluffy out with you. Making sure the stroller is light enough for you to handle, is easy for you to set up and is easily maneuverable should all weigh into your purchase decision. Making sure you are comfortable pushing the stroller without undoing discomfort is just as important as your kitty’s comfort.

Eventually, your cat will love her stroller as much as this cat does! 

 

How to Decide on the Right Stroller for You and Your Cat…

What you look for in a stroller ultimately depends on a few things (like your lifestyle, where you live, what kind of things you’d like to do with your pet outdoors and how many cats you will be taking along for the ride).

But there’s an easy checklist for when you’re trying to decide which pet stroller is right for you and Mrs. Whiskerson.

1) Sturdiness and Durability

You most likely want your dollars to stretch as far as they can here without compromising safety, so you’re likely hoping for something durable and sturdy.

In my experience, reading customer reviews is the BEST way to find out what people really think of the stroller after some daily wear and tear.

Some things you want to keep in mind when you’re thinking of durability are: 

• wheels
• joints
• fabric

You want wheels that can withstand the types of terrain you intend on venturing out on, you want joints that can withstand the test of time and you want a fabric that is easily washable and preferably comfortable with your feline friend.

You can easily consult Amazon’s Q&A section on that product to find out some commonly asked questions (and their answers) about that particular model.

2) Safety

Safety is the most important thing when it comes to taking your feline friend out on the town.

There are a few things you need to look for in a pet stroller to ensure they are the safest for your pet:

• An enclosed (not easily opened from the inside) case so your cat will feel safe, secure and can remain in the stroller unless you want them to come out.
• Spacious enough that your cat is comfortable in the enclosure, but not so spacious that they are at risk of getting out or not being able to be found.
• An enclosure that is easily ventilated so your cat doesn’t overheat.

Strollers that have a mesh sort of front are great for allowing a slight breeze even on the hottest day (plus, your cat will love the great view!)

3) Comfort

Comfort for your cat is THE most important thing, so it will rank pretty high on your list.

The more comfortable your cat is, the more likely they are to enjoy your time on the road.

When keeping comfort in mind, here are some things you can look for:

• Is there a pee pad?
  Maybe not the first thought in your mind, but having a removable (and washable) pee pad within the enclosure can guarantee your cat’s comfort (not having to sit in their own pee if they get a bit nervous on the road) and can make your life a lot easier!
• Is there any kind of bedding or comfortable padding (aside from the pee pad)?
• Will it be difficult to get your cat into and out of the stroller (does the enclosure open and close easily enough that you can do this without your cat getting nervous?)

4) Design and Utilization

This is where it gets customizable!

(This is where it’s about YOU and not so much about your four-legged friend, and really, how often does that happen?!)

“Creative Commons Pandora in Kittywalk Pet Stroller” by brownpau is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Go wild, here!

Your cat isn’t too concerned with the color, style or design of your stroller – so this part is up to you!

As for utilization, here’s where you need to think a bit long-term…

• Think about the location!
  (Do I need the stroller to pack up compact to store while I’m not using it? What kind of terrain am I planning on riding on? Where will I take my stroller most often?)
• Think about possibilities! 
  (What is my goal with this stroller? My cat isn’t used to it yet, but once she is, where do I want to go with her? Would I ever go on a road trip and take my cat and stroller with us?)
• Think about what you like! 
  (What color do I like? What kind of design do I want? What kind of things are important to me that the stroller needs to have?)

5) Easy of Assembly and Portability

We’re not looking for something that’s so difficult to assemble and use that it ends up sitting in your garage collecting dust.

Think about it…

You want something that is easy and relatively ready-to-go when you and your cat are eagerly getting ready to venture out on the town.

Going for a stroller that is easy to assemble, use and store is the best way to make sure you have no excuses for not taking your cat on their daily stroll around the block!

Tip: make sure your cat has a collar on with a bell or identifying tag, in case she happens to get loose while you’re on your stroll!

Allowing your cat plenty of time to get accustomed to their new routine and being patient is the best way to prevent problems, but the unexpected loose dog or overexcited child can put a wrinkle into even the best-laid plans.

No matter what happens, stay calm and give your kitty some decompression time before reconnecting.

It doesn’t take long before kitty will look to you for both confidence and comfort.

Regardless of where or how you travel, the memories you make together of how you got there will be ones you treasure forever.