When it comes to cat carriers, the available choices are overwhelming. From plastic clamshell to high end luxury, there’s something for every taste and for every budget. But when it comes to carriers, only two things matter: will your cat take to it, and is the carrier safe? The Tuft & Paw Porto Cat Carrier stands out in the market with its clean, streamlined design and a multitude of features that combine feline comfort and human aesthetics.
Porto Cat Carrier features
Unlike many soft-sided carriers that sag or shift, the Porto holds its shape. Cats tend to feel more secure when the ground beneath them is stable and predictable. A carrier that collapses or sways can add to their sense of vulnerability. The Porto’s structured design acts more like a hard sided carrier, but with all the features that make soft sided carriers popular.
The carrier’s breathable mesh allows for proper airflow. It lets your cat see out and lets you see your cat, but it doesn’t leave your cat feeling overly exposed. With its hidden structural panels for stability, and a durable water-resistant canvas shell, it’s basically a portable cat condo. Inside, removable faux shearling bedding creates a soft nap spot that converts into an even cozier bed with just a few zips.
The zippers are sturdy and move easily. As an added safety feature, they are auto-locking, which means that there’s a little mechanism inside the zipper head that requires the puller to be pulled to engage and release the lock, so even if you’ve left the carrier slightly open, your cat should not be able to open it further from the inside. .
The carrier features seatbelt straps to buckle it in for safer car travel. A trolley sleeve slips over your luggage handle. A side pocket holds important travel documents. The carrier fits carry-on standards for most airlines, but will not compress to fit under the seat.
Water-resistant canvas on the outside and waterproof lining on the inside make it easy to clean up any messes. The removable pad is machine washable.
The carrier is 18.75 inches long, 10.5 inches wide and 11.25 inches high. It will support up to 30 pounds.
The Porto comes in sand and charcoal.
Putting the Porto Cat Carrier to the test
The carrier ships flat. Assembly takes seconds. All you need to do is zip all the sides together.
It didn’t take Allegra long to check out the carrier. I initially opened it so she could just walk in and check everything out. She made herself comfortable on the pad within minutes, and didn’t even flinch when I zipped up the sides.
I love almost everything about this carrier. I’ve always been a firm proponent of carriers that are not just functional, but also pretty enough so they can be kept out in your living space. The more your cat is used to the carrier, the easier it will be to get her into it. This carrier more than meets that requirement. I especially like how easily it is converted into a lounge pad, making it even easier to integrate it into any decor.
The multiple entry points make this a fantastic carrier for veterinary visits. Exams can be performed without the cat ever having to leave the carrier.
The only thing that would make this carrier even better is if it was certified by the Center for Pet Safety. I would love to see Tuft & Paw pursue this certification. This thoughtfully designed carrier deserves our Seal of Approval.
For more information about the Porto Carrier and to purchase, please visit Tuft & Paw.
FTC Disclosure: Purrs of Wisdom is an affiliate partner of Tuft & Paw. This means that if you decide to purchase through any of our links, we get a small commission. We received this product at no charge for the purpose of this review. We also received a small fee to feature this product. We only spread the word about products and services we’ve either used or would use ourselves.
It is a nice looking carrier, darker color because the lighter side would get dirty yoo soon. I imagine it would work for the airline travel. It would work for a small dog as well.
This carrier looks really nice. I like that the inside is waterproof and the pad washable. You never know when one of the kitty kids will have an accident. I could see my girls using it as a bed too. We are in tornado season, so the carriers are often set in the bathroom (our safe room) and I would love for them to feel comfortable in their carriers. Looks so much more comfortable than the hard side kind.