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Entry 476Filed under Breeding

Yes, Cats Can Visit PetSmart—Here’s What to Know for Shopping, Grooming, and Vet Visits

PetSmart allows domestic cats, but restraint rules differ for shopping, grooming, and veterinary visits. Here’s what to confirm before you go.
2-minute read By Animalso Team
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Yes. PetSmart’s published in-store policy allows domestic cats when they are appropriately secured and vaccinated as appropriate. The exact restraint guidance depends on why you’re visiting: ordinary shopping, grooming, and an in-store veterinary appointment have different instructions.

Can you bring a cat to PetSmart for regular shopping?

PetSmart’s in-store policy lists “Domestic dogs and cats” among permitted pets. It says permitted pets must be “appropriately secured (leashed or safely confined) and vaccinated (as appropriate for the particular type of pet).” The general policy does not require a carrier for every ordinary shopping visit; it requires that the cat be secured appropriately.

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PetSmart also reserves the right to prohibit any pet from a location for any reason and says it may change the policy without notice. If your cat’s situation raises a question, contact the specific store before you go. Read PetSmart’s in-store pet policy.

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What should you know about cat grooming?

PetSmart says to bring a carrier when bringing a cat or small dog for grooming. Cat grooming is offered only at select salon locations and requires a specially trained groomer, so confirm that the salon offers the service and can accommodate the appointment you want. PetSmart says cats have water and a small litter box in their salon kennel. See PetSmart’s grooming process and current grooming details.

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Vceoa 17.5"x11"x11" Pet Carrier for Cats
  • Pet Carrier: 17.5” L x 11” W x 11” H, Recommended max load of 16 lbs cats small dogs. Please do not choose your carrier based on weight--please reference your pet's length and height in selecting a pet carrier size.
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Health and vaccination requirements

PetSmart’s grooming page says pets must be in good health and current on rabies vaccination. It also requires at least 24 hours to pass after vaccination before check-in. Confirm the requirements when booking, since service availability and appointment details can vary by location.

A groomer may assess a cat and modify, stop, postpone, or reschedule the service if a concern affects the pet’s health, comfort, or safety. PetSmart says grooming and hands-on assessments do not replace veterinary care or provide a medical diagnosis. It also says it does not sedate pets or accept pets that have been sedated. Review PetSmart’s grooming terms.

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Cat Dog Carriers Soft-Sided Pet Carrier Large Cats for Medium Big Cat Small Dog Puppy up to 16lbs TSA Airline Approved Animal Collapsible Cat Carrier Carriers Travel Carrier Cat Bag (17x11x11)
  • [PRODUCT DIMENSIONS] Pet travel carrier size : 17x11x11 inches, recommended up to 15 lb pets, it is suitable for large, medium cats and small dogs. Please don't choose your airline cat carrying case based on weight, please refer to your pet's length and height when choosing a pet carrier size.
  • [AIRLINE APPROVED] This cat carrier is designed with airline approved, it can fit comfortably under most flight seats, we can take our pets wherever we want. Dog travel carrier offers two attachment loop handles that can be used as a dual harness or as a luggage strap for balanced carry and secure transport.
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  • [PORTABLE AND FOLDABLE] Pet travel carrier comes with a detachable and hand washable wool pet bed, it can provide a comfortable sleeping space for your traveling pet. The cat travel case comes with an adjustable shoulder strap and handle for easy portability. When not in use, you can fold it up for storage.

What is required for an in-store veterinary appointment?

For a veterinary appointment at an in-store hospital, PetSmart requires pets to remain in a crate, kennel, or another fastened enclosure to prevent exposure to the public. Keep your cat enclosed until you are safely inside the hospital examination room or kennel area. This appointment-specific instruction is stricter than the general rule for shopping.

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How to check before you go

  1. For ordinary shopping, contact your local store if you are unsure whether your cat’s restraint setup meets its policy.
  2. For grooming, confirm that the salon offers cat grooming, that a specially trained groomer is available, and that your cat meets the health and rabies requirements.
  3. For an in-store veterinary appointment, bring a crate, kennel, or other fastened enclosure and keep your cat inside until you reach the protected hospital area.

PetSmart’s policy and service pages were retrieved on October 7, 2026. The company-wide policy names no publication date and may change without notice; the pages do not establish what any individual store will decide for a particular visit. Check PetSmart’s location information for local details.

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Amazon Basics 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Pet Travel Carrier for Cats and Small Dogs, 19" L x 12.6" W x 10" H, Gray & Blue
  • Hard sided pet carrier with 2 doors for front and top entry; suitable for cat or extra-small dog breeds, such as chihuahuas and toy poodles (up to 11 pounds)
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  • Note: Be sure to measure the size of the pet when choosing carrier size
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  • 【 Spacious & Comfortable Cat Carrier 】The large cat carrier provides ample space for your feline friend to move, turn, and stretch during travel. Measuring 17.3 x 12.2 x 13.4 inches, it is wider and taller than most cat carriers, ensuring your pet feels comfortable and at ease while on the go.
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Rank #3
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  • Dimension and Weight:Made of durable tear-resistant fabric.Four easy entrances for pets. Dimensions: 17 inch x 11 inch x 11 inch (L*W*H), suitable for pets up to 16 lbs.Please don't choose your carrier based on weight only,consider your pet's length and height when choosing a carrier.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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