Not Just a Fashion Statement: Carrying Cats Should Prioritize Welfare, Not Aesthetics

By: drh.Mikeu Paujiah, M.M

In recent years, we have increasingly seen a trend on social media: cats being taken for walks in transparent backpacks that fully expose their bodies to the outside. At first glance, it looks cute, stylish, and adorable.

However, when viewed from the perspective of feline behavior and animal welfare, this trend is not entirely safe and actually carries a high risk of causing stress in cats.

What’s Wrong with Transparent Backpacks?

Cats are animals with a strong instinct to hide, avoid crowds, and feel safe in enclosed spaces. 

When placed inside a transparent bag, cats are:

-Fully exposed to external visual stimuli (motorbikes, people, loud noises, direct sunlight)

-Unable to hide

-Feeling trapped with no possibility of escape

Experiencing visual and auditory overstimulation

-Feeling threatened by the movement of unfamiliar objects approaching them

All of these factors can trigger extreme fear responses, panic, hyperventilation, or even long-term trauma.

What Does Feline Behavioral Science Say?

According to animal behavior experts, including the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP), traveling outside the home is one of the greatest sources of stress for cats. Therefore, all forms of transport should minimize external stimuli and provide a sense of security.

“Cats feel calmer in carriers that are enclosed, partially darkened, well-ventilated, and have a non-slip base.”
— Feline Handling Guidelines, AAFP

Don’t Be Misled! Transparent Bags Are Not for Cats

ome manufacturers of transparent bags even promote their products as “pet bubble backpacks,” giving the impression that they are specially designed for animal comfort.

In reality, there are no animal welfare standards that support this type of design.

This trend exists largely because of visual appeal and social media lifestyle pressures, not because of ethological considerations or animal welfare principles.

Conclusion: Aesthetics Must Never Override Ethics

Cats are not fashion accessories. They are living beings with emotions, fears, and a fundamental need for safety.

Carrying cats in transparent bags simply because it looks “cute” on social media—without considering their comfort—is a form of ignorance that needs to be corrected.

As responsible owners, we should ask ourselves:

“Is this comfortable for me?”
is far less important than:
“Is this comfortable and safe for my cat?”

 Reference:

1. American Association of Feline Practitioners. (2021). Feline-Friendly Handling Guidelines.

2 The Association of Shelter Veterinarians (ASV). (2010). Standards of Care in Animal Shelters.

3 RSPCA Australia. (2018). Companion Animal Transport Guidelines.