Short journeys go better when a cat can see you. An open-topped sling lets them ride against your body with their head out, which suits the animal who panics inside a closed box but travels calmly in arms, and it means you can put a reassuring hand on them at a kerb or in a waiting room without unzipping anything first.

The body is 12oz thickened cotton canvas, a considerably heavier weave than the thin nylon most soft carriers use, so it holds its shape when set down and takes daily wear without going baggy at the mouth. Canvas breathes, which keeps the inside from getting close and stuffy on a warm day, and the sling strap spreads the weight across a shoulder rather than hanging off one hand. The designs run from a lion's mane collar to bees, dinosaurs, a hamburger and a cowboy print.

• 12oz thickened cotton canvas, wear-resistant and durable
• Open top, so your pet can look out as you walk
• Shoulder sling strap for hands-free carrying
• Suits both cats and small dogs
• Two sizes, M and L
• Packed weight 200g to 300g depending on size

Open means open. For the vet, take a hard carrier and use this for the calm trips.

Who it's for: Owners of relaxed cats and small dogs making short local journeys who want something breathable and easy to carry.