I have used both, and I prefer the fabric with netting -- easier to
transport and store, lighter to handle.  I have never had a need to slip a
tranquilizer in disguised as food (as you described it), but I would think
that you could unzip the fabric carrier just enough to insert the food.  The
one I have can unzip either from the top or from the end, and each "system"
has two zippers.  The two zippers mean that you could use both zippers and
have them meet in the middle, or you could use one zipper all the way
around -- thus making it easier to slip in food at the bottom of the
carrier.  Incidentally, I'm dubious about whether this will work with
*either* type of crate.  If Mico is that nervous or agitated, I would expect
that he will not be in any mood to eat.

MaryL

I have both types at home.  I don't drive so when I take both cats to the
vet at the same time, using two of the hard plastic carriers was impossible.
The soft carrier I have (Sherpa) cost a fortune - literally 5X what a plain
hard case costs!  If you're going to be driving, the hard case might be
better.  My Sherpa bag, since it's soft, does tend to sag while the cat is
inside.  The cat doesn't seem to mind, but might feel more comfortable in
the hard case.  Also, one of my cats loves to sleep in the hard case, so I
leave it out all the time.

--
Liz

One point in favor of the hard plastic carriers is that they can also
double as a pet bed. I leave the carriers out and have purr pads or
fleece covered foam cushions in them and the cats use them for napping
all the time. And since the cats sleep in the carriers, they don't spook
at the sight of a carrier when it's time to go to the vet.

If you'll be transporting your cat by car get the hard fiberglass carrier,
it provides more protection for your cat in the event of an accident.
Fiberglass carriers are also easier to disinfect and keep dry.

Phil.

Supposedly the hard crate is more comfortable for the cat but I also
sometimes use a black, soft over the shoulder type which can pass for a
pocketbook if I want to travel and sneak the cat in somewhere with me.

--
Barb
Of course I don't look busy,
I did it right the first time.

I use the hard carrier with the front and top opening. Some cats prefer to
walk into the carrier, others are a little tougher to get in there and
that's where the top door is handy. I also have had cats who seem to feel
less claustrophobic in the carriers with the top door. If the cat is sick
it's a lot faster/easier to get them out of a carrier that opens from the
top as well. The only down side is that the 'latches' on the top door have
been known to slide open so extra caution is in order. I haven't tried a
fabric carrier mostly because I haven't found one big and sturdy enough to
carry some of the bigger, heavier cats I transport.

W