How to Take Your Cat on a Bike Ride?

Ever considered an adventure with your cat on bike?

It’s doable! Just as cat kayaking is a special experience, biking with your cat can be too.

After all, often it’s simpler to travel by bike than by car.

What you should consider for cat bike rides

Ready to bike with your cat?

Ensure you’re at ease on a bike first.

If you’re still mastering the basics, finding it hard to stay steady or feel anxious on a bike, it’s probably not wise to take your cat along. Your nervousness could transfer to your cat, making them anxious too.

Is your cat a good fit for bike rides?

Just like any cat adventure, we suggest getting your cat used to a harness before biking together.

Check that your cat is okay with being outdoors and exploring alongside you, as biking is a new experience for them.

Remember, not every cat enjoys bike rides. Some relish the breeze tickling their whiskers, while others aren’t fans. Always begin with short rides and stop if your cat isn’t having fun.

It’s smart to know your local laws about your cat on bike.

In some places, there are specific rules against leading an animal by a leash from a bike.

Knowing these rules can prevent unexpected penalties.

How to take your cat on a bike ride

You can bike with your cat in several ways:

• Carry them in a cat backpack, either on your back, fixed on your bike’s front, or placed on a rack
• Use a carrier made for attaching to your bike’s front.

You might also consider a dog bike trailer, but cats usually don’t like it. It’s hard to talk to your cat in these, so I’m not a big fan of this method.

Biking with your cat in a backpack

Harness train your cat with the backpack before biking. Start with short walks in the backpack, then move to biking. This helps your cat get comfortable in the backpack.

Using a front-facing bike carrier for your cat

There are various front-facing carriers designed for pets. These usually hook onto your bike’s handlebars with the carrier above the front wheel.

How to choose the right bike carrier for your cat

Your Cat’s Size

Carriers have weight limits. Make sure your cat fits comfortably in the carrier, as some are quite small.

Materials

Bike carriers for pets come in various materials. Light materials are easier to steer with but might bend under your cat’s weight. Heavier materials like wood or metal won’t bend but are heavier.

The carrier’s inside material affects your cat’s comfort. Soft materials are comfy but might not be waterproof and get dirty easily.

Your bike

Different bikes have different sizes. Before you buy a carrier, check if it fits on your bike and handlebars.

This also tells you if the carrier will move on the handlebars. A moving carrier isn’t comfy for your cat and might make them sick – that’s no fun!

Steering

Carriers on the bike’s front add extra weight. This might make steering harder, especially with your cat inside.

Design

Many carriers are open on top, like baskets. If you worry about your cat jumping out, especially in busy areas, choose a covered carrier or one that can be covered.

For safety, pick a carrier with a tether to attach to your cat’s harness.

Front-facing bicycle pet carriers for your cat on bike

BARKBAY Dog Bike Basket Carrier

Price: $65.99

Features:

• Expandable and foldable design for easy storage and adaptability.
• Made with soft-sided material for comfort.
• Features two open doors for easy access.
• Equipped with 5 reflective tapes for increased visibility and safety.
• Can function as a pet travel bag and a dog backpack carrier.
• Suitable for small to medium-sized cats and dogs.
• Comes in an attractive blue color.

Pros:

• Versatility in usage (bike carrier, travel bag, and backpack).
• Reflective tapes enhance safety during low-light conditions.
• The expandable feature allows for additional space for pets.
• Easy access with two open doors can be comforting for pets.

Cons:

• May not be suitable for larger pets due to size limitations.

K&H Pet Products Universal Bike Pet Carrier

Price: $71.12

Features:

• Classy gray color, large size measuring 12 X 16 X 10 inches.
• Designed for travel convenience with cats and dogs.
• Can be attached to a bicycle for easy transport.
• Suitable for a variety of pets within the specified size range.

Pros:

• Universal design likely fits a variety of bikes.
• Large size can accommodate medium-sized pets comfortably.
• The classy gray color is aesthetically pleasing.

Cons:

• Lacks a protective cover; pet safety needs monitoring.

TRAVELIN K9 Pet-Pilot MAX Wicker Bike Basket

Price: $126

Features:

• Wicker bike basket designed for dogs and cats.
• Includes a wire cage top with a sun shade for protection and security.
• Comes with a plush removable padded liner for comfort.
• Priced higher due to additional features and build quality.

Pros:

• The wicker design is stylish and offers good ventilation.
• The wire cage top with sun shade provides security and protection from the elements.
• The removable padded liner ensures pet comfort and is easy to clean.

Cons:

• Higher cost.

How to train your cat on a bike ride?

Before you start, your cat should be comfortable with a harness and a backpack. This is super important if you’re going to use the backpack for bike rides.

Getting used to a new bike carrier

Got a new carrier? Help your cat get used to it just like you did with the backpack.

Start in a quiet place

Once your cat seems okay in their carrier or backpack, find a calm spot for your first bike rides. This could be your driveway or a quiet road. Start with just a couple of minutes on the bike and see how your cat likes it. If all goes well, slowly make your rides longer – from 1 minute to 3 minutes, and then up to 15 minutes.

You’ll also figure out how your cat likes to ride. Do they want to look around, or just sit comfortably? Begin with slow rides and speed up a bit as they get more used to it.

Try busier places gradually

When your cat seems happy on the bike, try going to places that are a little busier, but not too much at once.

It’s okay to go back a step

If your cat seems scared or anxious, it’s okay to take a step back and slow down. It just means they need a bit more time to get used to everything.

Choosing the Right Bike Adventures for Your Cat

Not every bike ride is cat-friendly. Picture your cat in a backpack or carrier while you’re mountain biking over rough terrain – it’s likely not a comfortable experience, especially with all the jolts and bumps. So, it’s best to pick smooth trails or paths that are easy to ride on.

Also, remember that some cats may not enjoy fast-paced rides. If your cat seems happier with slower speeds, opt for calm, leisurely bike rides instead.

There may be times when you have to cycle through busy traffic. In these cases, it’s safer to keep your cat’s backpack or carrier closed to prevent them from jumping out. However, be aware that traffic can be stressful for your cat. This is something to try only when your cat is more experienced with biking.

Like us, cats can get worn out in hot weather or during long rides. Keep this in mind when planning your biking adventures. And don’t forget to pack all the essentials for your cat’s comfort.

Handling Stops with Your Cat in a Carrier

Imagine you’ve biked to your local café. Normally, you’d lock your bike and dash in for a coffee. While it might be tempting to leave your cat in their carrier on the bike, this can unbalance it and cause it to topple. Always remove your cat or take the entire carrier with you when stepping away from the bike.

And One More Thing

Most importantly, train your cat before taking your cat on bike, and have a great time exploring with your cat!

Frequently Asked Questions About Biking With Cats

Q: How old should my cat be before bike riding?

A: Wait until your cat is at least 12 months old. Young kittens should not be biking. Cats over 12 months can begin training but avoid strenuous or lengthy rides until they are full-grown at 1.5-2 years old.

Q: Are certain cat breeds better for bicycling?

A: Any breed can learn! But active breeds like Siamese and Abyssinians often take to bike riding well. Remember, every cat is an individual – behavior depends more on personality.

Q: Should my cat wear a helmet during bike rides?

A: There are no specific requirements but some cat owners put helmets on just to be extra safe. Pay attention to trail conditions and avoid risky behavior. Carriers and backpacks provide padding too.

Q: Can I take my cat on long bike trips or tours?

A: Short rides under 30 minutes to start are best. Over time you may progress to longer outings but be mindful of your cat’s stamina and needs throughout. Stop for cat breaks just like human breaks!

Q: How can I ease my cat back into bike riding after an illness?

A: Restart slowly with 5-10 minute rides at a relaxed pace. Monitor your recovered cat closely. Avoid bumpy or stressful routes until their strength and health are fully back. Cycling can stimulate the immune system once the kitty is fit again.