When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more The Pecute backpack was a comfortable design for both our reporter and her cat. Janelle Leeson/Business Insider Most cat backpacks aren't cat-friendly. Bubble windows can trap heat, and interiors can be too cramped for a cat to turn around comfortably. Even more, when your cat needs you most, like when exploring new and unfamiliar places, they're on your back, where you can't easily check in or soothe them. That said, there is a time and place when a backpack beats a carrier. After testing five backpacks and speaking with experts, I found two winners — but neither is a one-size-fits-all solution. I'm a pets reporter who has walked my cats, Atlas and Lyra, on harness and leash for seven years, and I know a backpack is non-negotiable for their safety. The right backpack can also be a great option for air travel, keeping your hands free in busy airport terminals, expanding to giv...