Collapsible Soft Sided Pet XL Crate review

? Are you looking for an extra-large, soft-sided carrier that can comfortably fit two cats for long trips and car rides?

Collapsible soft sided pet xl crate review

Collapsible soft sided pet xl crate review

First impressions

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When you first see the Extra Large Cat Carrier for 2 Cats, Collapsible Soft Sided Pet XL Crate for Large Mudium Big Cat 20lbs+, Car Travel Portable Bag for Long Trips Ride 24″x16.5″x16.5″, it feels like a small mobile home for your cats. The size and soft-sided design give the impression that your pets will have more space and airflow than in a typical hard carrier.

Collapsible soft sided pet xl crate review

Collapsible soft sided pet xl crate review

Product overview

This carrier measures 24″ x 16.5″ x 16.5″ and supports a maximum combined weight of up to 55 lbs, making it suitable for medium to large cats or two smaller cats traveling together. It’s a 2024 upgraded model featuring a waterproof bottom liner, four safety belt clips, dual handles, breathable mesh on five sides, a comfortable cushion, multiple entrances, and safety zipper clips for added security.

Feature Specification / Notes
External dimensions 24″ x 16.5″ x 16.5″
Weight capacity Up to 55 lbs total
Material highlights Soft-sided with wear-resistant mesh, sturdy metal frame
Ventilation Five-sided mesh walls for airflow
Upgrades (2024) Waterproof bottom liner, four safety belt clips, dual handles
Entrances Multiple zippered openings with safety clips
Portability Collapsible design, dual handles
Available colors Starry Sky Gray, Prussian Blue
Best use cases Car travel, home temporary crate, short airline-compatible (check airline policies)
Included Cushion, waterproof liner, safety clips and belt clips

Size and capacity

The 24″ x 16.5″ x 16.5″ interior gives your cat plenty of room to sit up, lie down, and turn around—important for longer trips or for housing two cats together. With a 55 lb capacity, you can safely carry two medium-sized cats or one larger cat without stressing the seams or frame.

Materials and build quality

The crate combines soft fabric walls with a metal frame to hold its shape, and uses wear-resistant mesh for visibility and breathability. The metal frame is sturdy enough to keep the carrier from collapsing accidentally, while the mesh and zippers are reinforced to handle scratching and daily use.

Comfort and ventilation

Five-sided mesh walls provide cross-ventilation so your pet gets fresh air from nearly every angle, and the included cushion adds a padded layer for comfort during travel or waiting periods. The breathable design helps reduce heat buildup and gives your cat a less claustrophobic environment, which can reduce stress on the road.

Safety features

This model includes four safety belt clips to anchor the carrier in a car, as well as safety clips on each zippered section to prevent accidental openings. The waterproof bottom liner protects your car seats and makes cleanup easier if your cat has an accident or sheds heavily.

Travel and car use

The carrier is clearly built for road travel—dual handles make carrying easier for one person, and the belt clips help secure the carrier to the car seat for safer rides. Because the crate is soft-sided and cushioned, it’s more forgiving in tight spaces and easier to position in a vehicle than a rigid crate.

Ease of use and setup

The collapsible design lets you fold the crate flat for storage and quickly pop it back into shape when you’re ready to use it. Zippers are positioned for easy access and the dual handles are comfortable to grip, which simplifies moving the carrier from house to car and back.

Cleaning and maintenance

Thanks to the waterproof bottom liner, wiping up spills and accidents is much faster than with standard fabric interiors. The cushion cover and bottom liner can usually be wiped or spot-cleaned; check for removable covers if you prefer to launder them regularly.

Design and colors

The minimalist design comes in Starry Sky Gray and Prussian Blue, making the carrier understated and compatible with most car interiors and home decor. Small design choices—like the subtle color palette and simple hardware—mean the carrier looks neat and unobtrusive when you aren’t using it.

Portability and storage

When you’re not traveling, the carrier collapses flat so it’s easy to tuck into a closet or under a seat. Dual handles and a relatively lightweight construction (despite its size) mean you can carry the carrier loaded with one or two cats without needing a second person.

Multi-cat use

Because it’s large enough for two cats, this carrier suits households with bonded pairs or cats that are used to sharing space. Keep in mind the total combined weight limit of 55 lbs; two extremely large cats could exceed that, so measure your pets first.

Noise and stress reduction

Soft walls and a cushioned interior provide a quieter environment than hard plastic crates, which can reverberate and amplify sudden sounds. The breathable mesh still allows visibility so your cat can see you and the surroundings, which can be calming for pets used to being near their humans.

Durability over time

The metal frame and wear-resistant mesh suggest good longevity for regular travel use, but durability will depend on how much your cat chews, claws, or claws at zippers. Reinforced stitching and zipper safety clips help, yet repeated heavy scratching might eventually fray mesh areas—inspect seams periodically.

Setup and collapse instructions

Setting the crate up typically involves unfolding the carrier and locking the metal frame into place so the sides remain upright. To collapse, you release any frame locks and fold the sides inward, zipper the top (if applicable), and store flat; the included manual should guide specific steps.

What to expect on long trips

Your cat will have more room to shift positions and a softer surface to rest on than in typical airline carriers, which helps on trips longer than a couple of hours. Still, make frequent stops on long road journeys so your cat can have short supervised breaks, hydration, and litter box options if needed.

Pros and cons

The pros include roomy interior, multiple safety features, a waterproof liner, and good ventilation—ideal for two cats or one large cat. On the downside, very determined scratchers may test the mesh over time, and airlines often require hard-sided carriers or specific certifications for cabin travel, so check policies before flying.

Who is this carrier best for?

You’ll find this carrier ideal if you transport medium to large cats, have two smaller cats that travel together, or need a comfortable temporary home that you can move from car to room easily. It’s also suited for owners who value breathability and soft interiors over hard plastic structure.

Real-world testing notes

In everyday use, the carrier’s cushion and breathable mesh make your cat more relaxed compared with cramped plastic crates, and the waterproof liner saves you from messy clean-ups. You’ll appreciate the handles and belt clips when securing the crate in varied car models, and the dual handles make lifting easier even when the carrier is loaded.

Tips to help your cat adjust

Introduce the carrier gradually by placing treats, toys, or a familiar blanket inside so your cat associates it with comfort and positive experiences. Keep the carrier out at home with the doors or flaps open for a few days before travel; that reduces anxiety and makes final packing smoother.

Comparisons with other carriers

Compared to hard plastic carriers, this soft-sided crate offers more breathing room and a softer environment but may be less protective against severe impact, which could be important for air travel or situations with stricter safety requirements. Compared to other soft carriers, the Extra Large Cat Carrier stands out for its size, weight capacity, and added 2024 features like the waterproof liner and four seatbelt clips.

Cleaning, stain removal, and odor control

Spot-clean spills immediately with a pet-safe cleaner and warm water, and use a damp cloth to wipe the waterproof liner for quick maintenance. For cushion covers that are machine washable, follow label instructions; for stubborn odors, a baking soda treatment (sprinkle, wait, vacuum) can help without harsh chemicals.

Safety considerations and common questions

Always ensure the safety clips on zippers are fully engaged before driving, and attach at least two of the belt clips to the car seatbelt or anchor points for redundancy. Confirm that the combined weight of your cats doesn’t exceed 55 lbs and inspect the carrier regularly for wear around seams, zippers, and mesh.

Accessories and add-ons to consider

You might add a familiar-smelling blanket or an absorbent travel pad for extra cushions and mess protection, or secure small suction-cup water bowls that attach to the mesh walls for easy access. A harness and leash clipped inside via a D-ring (if present) can prevent escapes when you open a flap, and motion-absorbing pads can increase comfort on rough roads.

Practical tips for car travel

Secure the carrier using the four provided safety belt clips—attach at least two to prevent tipping—and place the carrier on the back seat to minimize sudden braking forces. Keep the car at a comfortable temperature, avoid leaving your cat unattended in a parked car, and pack a small kit (litter, water, treats, cleaning wipes) for stops.

Airline and public transport considerations

Many airlines have strict carrier requirements and prefer hard-sided carriers for cargo or for cabin travel; check your carrier’s dimensions against airline rules and contact the airline before booking. For buses and trains, review their pet policies; the carrier’s soft sides and ventilation usually meet many ground-transport policies, but always verify sizing and weight limits.

Long-term storage and care

Fold the crate flat and store it in a dry place to avoid mold or mildew on the cushion and liner. If you won’t use the carrier for a season, air it out occasionally and check zippers and mesh for signs of damage prior to your next trip.

Troubleshooting common issues

If a zipper snags, gently work fabric back into position and use a zipper lubricant or graphite pencil to ease movement; do not force it as that can cause tearing. If mesh begins to fray, sew patches or reinforcement strips inside before damage worsens, or contact the manufacturer about warranty options.

Pros, cons, and common use cases (summary)

You’ll like the carrier for two-cat travel, long drives, and as a comfortable temporary home for cats used to more room. Consider alternatives if you need a carrier for airline-approved cabin travel or if your cat is a heavy scratcher that could compromise the mesh over time.

Who should avoid this carrier

If you fly frequently and require airline-approved, rigid carriers for the cabin or cargo hold, this soft-sided crate might not meet your airline’s rules. Also, if your cat is an extreme escape artist or prone to persistent clawing, you may prefer a heavy-duty hard carrier.

Frequently asked questions

  • Can this carrier really hold two cats? Yes, as long as their combined weight is under 55 lbs and they’re comfortable sharing space. If your cats are not bonded or tend to fight, separate carriers are safer.
  • Is the waterproof liner removable and washable? The liner is waterproof for easy wipe-downs; check whether it’s removable for full laundering—many owners spot-clean the liner and launder the cushion cover if removable.
  • Is it airline-approved? Airline policies vary; this soft-sided crate is great for car travel but may not meet all airlines’ cabin or cargo requirements—confirm with the airline before flying.
  • How do the safety belt clips work? The belt clips allow you to anchor the carrier to seatbelt anchor points or strap attachment points in your car, reducing movement during sudden stops.
  • Can it handle a large cat over 20 lbs? Yes, the product name suggests suitability for cats 20+ lbs and the total capacity is 55 lbs, so a single larger cat can fit, but always measure your cat to ensure comfort.
  • Is assembly hard? Assembly is usually straightforward—unfold the carrier, lock the frame, insert the cushion—so you should be able to set it up quickly without tools.

Collapsible soft sided pet xl crate review

Final verdict

If you want a roomy, breathable, and travel-oriented soft-sided carrier that can hold two cats or a large single cat, the Extra Large Cat Carrier for 2 Cats, Collapsible Soft Sided Pet XL Crate for Large Mudium Big Cat 20lbs+, Car Travel Portable Bag for Long Trips Ride 24″x16.5″x16.5″ is an attractive option. It balances comfort and practical travel features like a waterproof liner and seatbelt clips, though frequent flyers or owners of extreme scratchers may want to consider alternatives.

Collapsible soft sided pet xl crate review

Buying and care checklist

Keep this brief checklist handy before you buy and during use:

  • Measure your cat(s): length, height, and combined weight to confirm comfort and safety.
  • Confirm airline or transport policies if you plan to fly or use public transport.
  • Inspect zippers, mesh, and frame on arrival and periodically for wear.
  • Add familiar bedding and a small non-spill water dish for travel.
  • Use the waterproof liner for messy trips and spot-clean promptly.
  • Store flat and dry when not in use to prolong life.

If you have specific concerns about your cat’s behavior, travel route, or airline rules, tell me more about your situation and I’ll help you decide whether this carrier will suit your needs or if another option would be better.

Collapsible soft sided pet xl crate review

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