How to Air Travel With a Cat

Traveling by yourself or with friends and family can be a wonderful experience, however, there is something special about traveling to new destinations with your beloved cat that makes it even more special. While traveling with a cat in a plane can be a tedious and complicated process, it can be a smooth and rewarding experience where you can bond with your pet in ways you couldn’t have before. Whether you’re moving to a new city or going on vacation, bringing your feline friend along requires careful planning to ensure that they are safe and comfortable.

Can You Travel With Your Cat on a Plane?

Travelers are able to fly with their cat and most airlines allow cats to travel either in the cabin with you or in the cargo hold. However, where they might go is going to be dependent on the airline’s policy and the size of your cat. Should your cat fit in a soft carrier that is designed to fit under the seat, then your cat will be able to join you in the cabin for the duration of your flight.

However, if your cat does not fit or you only have a large sturdy carrier then your cat would have to go into the cargo hold for the duration of the flight. So it is important to check with your airline ahead of time to understand their specific requirements and restrictions. In addition, some airlines have limits on the number of pets allowed per flight, so it’s advisable to book early.

How Much Does It Cost to Travel With a Cat?

The cost of traveling with a cat will vary depending on which airline you choose to fly and the destination. For example, domestic flights will charge travelers anywhere within the $100 range each way, but for international flights, travelers can be charged anywhere around the $200 range and possibly beyond. Additionally, if you and your cat are traveling internationally, you would need to consider other costs such as a durable and comfortable travel carrier, vaccinations, and any other required paperwork that needs to be submitted.

How Stressful Is Flying for Cats?

Much like when dogs fly for trips, cats flying in planes can be a stressful experience depending on the temperature and carrier condition. However, if they are not used to traveling in a confined space for hours, it can definitely become a stressful experience. With that in mind, it is vital that you take steps to minimize their stress as much as possible, such as crate training, tiring them out as much as possible by playing with them, and possibly even having them take anti-anxiety medication right before the flight. Before you do any of that, it is recommended to consult with your veterinarian to see what is best for your cat.

Can I Buy My Cat a Seat on the Plane?

Generally, you cannot buy a separate seat for your pet and all cats traveling in the cabin must remain in their carrier and under the seat in front of you for the duration of the flight. If your cat is a service animal or emotional support animal then different rules may apply, but it’s important to check with the airline for their specific policies regarding this topic. However, there are some private planes and smaller airlines that allow you to purchase seats for your pets but do keep in mind that they might charge a premium for services.

Is It Safe for Cats to Fly in Cargo?

Generally speaking, it is safe for cats to fly in cargo because there are certain measures and guidelines in place to ensure their survivability and comfort for the duration of a flight. However, it does come with more risks compared to cabin travel. For example, poor ventilation, extreme temperatures, and rough handling are some of the most common problems found when cats travel by cargo hold and can result in a number of scenarios. While the chances of these things happening are minimal, it is still important to do your research and due diligence to make sure that you choose direct flights with minimal travel time and carrier handling to reduce the chances of incidents occurring.

Do I Need a Litter Box When Flying With My Cat?

If you’re traveling on a long flight and your cat is with you in the cabin, it is recommended to get a portable litter box just in case of emergencies. This isn’t a necessity for short domestic flights, because cats can usually hold it, but for long flights, it is wise to bring a small portable litter box that is either collapsible or disposable. It is also recommended to pad the carrier with an absorbent pad just in case, your cat decides to do their business in the carrier without your knowledge.

How Do I Prepare My Cat for Air Travel?

Traveling with your cat by plane requires thorough preparation and understanding of airline policies. The best thing you can do to prepare them for a flight is to get them checked out by your veterinarian to ensure they are up-to-date on vaccinations and don’t have any concerning medical conditions and make sure they are comfortable in their travel carrier, especially for the duration of the flight. If they are having trouble staying calm, there are some medicines and supplements you can give them to help them calm down. By planning ahead and taking the necessary steps to ensure your cat’s comfort and safety, you can make the journey less stressful for both you and your feline companion.