Carrying a cat any distance in a shoulder bag is a two-armed, back-aching business, and the cat can feel every step of it. A backpack puts the weight on both shoulders and closer to your spine, which is often the difference between a walk to the surgery you can manage and one you quietly dread. It also holds the animal at a steadier height, without a bag swinging into the back of your leg at every stride.

The structured shell is what makes it work. It holds its shape rather than collapsing around the animal, so there is real air space inside, and a large window at the front lets a nervous traveller see out and place themselves. Mesh side panels keep air moving, which matters more than most owners expect, because a closed carrier warms up quickly on a bus or in a waiting room. A zip closure, padded base, front pocket for paperwork and padded straps complete it.

• Large front window with mesh side vents
• Structured shell that holds its shape
• Padded shoulder straps and a padded base
• Front storage pocket for paperwork
• Secure zip closure
• Two colours, grey and black
• Boxed at 33 x 10 x 58cm, 1.1kg

Two things worth knowing. And no interior dimensions are published, so tell us your cat's body length and we will measure a carrier rather than guess.

Who it's for: Cat owners who walk or take public transport to the vet, and small dogs who travel better when they can see out.