Securing a Carrier in the Car

An unsecured carrier is a projectile during a sudden stop. Even mild braking sends an unrestrained carrier sliding off the seat. Securing it properly protects your cat and protects you from a loose carrier bouncing around the cabin.

Best Location: Back Seat

The back seat is safer than the front — airbag deployment can crush a carrier placed on the passenger seat. The floor of the back seat (behind the front passenger seat) is the most stable position because the carrier can't slide far in any direction. The back seat itself is fine too, as long as the carrier is secured.

Method 1: Seat Belt Through the Handle

For hard-sided carriers with a handle on top, thread the seat belt through or around the handle and click it in. This prevents the carrier from flying forward during braking. It won't stop all lateral movement, but it's a solid basic solution.

Method 2: Bungee Cords or Cargo Straps

For carriers without a good handle, use adjustable cargo straps to lash the carrier to the seat back or the seat belt anchors. Two straps (one over the top, one around the front) provide good stability. Avoid bungee cords with metal hooks near the carrier — they can snap and injure your cat.

Method 3: Carrier-Specific Straps

Some carriers come with built-in seat belt loops or attachment straps designed for car use. These are the most convenient option and are worth looking for when shopping for a new carrier. Brands like Sleepypod have carriers specifically crash-tested for automotive use.

What Not to Do

Don't place the carrier on the front passenger seat with the airbag active
Don't stack luggage on top of the carrier
Don't let the carrier sit loose on the back seat or in the cargo area of an SUV

Tip: Test your securing method before loading the cat. Buckle the carrier in, then brake firmly in your driveway. If it shifts more than an inch, tighten or re-route the straps.

← Back to Gear & Equipment