I got this carrier for less than the Aran 2 version, and I'm actually glad I got the bigger one as it gives my full-grown cat plenty of space. I could probably put two cats in it, in fact.This carrier is quite sturdy and I like the edge-locking system. The top door is a little hard to open, though. It kind of sticks a little; not enough for me to dock a star, though -- I assume it'll loosen up over time.