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How to Make Flying With a Cat Easier, According to Experts and Owners

By Anna Borges

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When I researched how to travel with a cat for the first time a few years ago, the logistics alone were almost enough to scare me off the option of flying entirely. Between parsing different pet-friendly policies and questioning whether furry lil’ Francis would hate me when we reached our destination, flying with a cat seemed like it would be way more trouble than it was worth.

But like many pet parents worrying about the best way to travel with a cat, I had my reasons for leaning toward air travel—namely, money and quality of life for both me and Francis—so I took the plunge. Luckily, with the right research and preparation, flying with a cat can be a viable and safe option for many. There are just a lot of things you have to consider first.

You don’t have to take just my word for it. Below, I’ve rounded up the best tips from other cat owners and pet experts to help you every step of the way, from deciding whether to fly in the first place to ensuring the journey is as low-stress as possible for both you and your favorite furball.

Figuring out if you can fly with your cat

There are several important details to consider when choosing whether to fly with your cat (or cats , plural), but before you dive into the nitty gritty, start with the basics: Is it even possible?

Thanks to varying policies across different airlines and destinations, the most precise answer I can offer without knowing your exact situation is, “it depends!” In many cases, yes, you’ll be able to find a cat-friendly route to your desired destination, especially if you’re traveling domestically within the US. However, there are a few factors that might make air travel a no-go from the get-go.

First things first: Some airlines have restrictions on the number, size, age, health, and breed of cats allowed both in the cabin and in the cargo hold, so be sure to read the policies of pet-friendly airlines carefully to understand your options.

After confirming that you can fly with your cat or cats on a particular airline, you’ll then have to make sure you can travel specifically to your destination and on the dates you want to travel. Certain airlines restrict the number of pets onboard at a time, which means you should book early to ensure there’s room for your pet on a specific flight. Meanwhile, if you’re flying internationally, you’ll run into various vaccination and microchipping requirements, as well as places where you can’t travel with a cat at all.

All that said, once you know that you can travel with your cat, there’s something else you’ll want to consider before booking your flight: whether you should .

Deciding whether to fly with a cat

“Flying with a cat can be a complex and stressful experience for both the pet and the owner,” says Keston Smith, DVM, medical director at BondVet’s location in Hell’s Kitchen in New York City. But sometimes it’s the best or only option. When weighing practical needs against other concerns, bear in mind that the flight itself is one part of a larger (potentially taxing) journey: Your cat will also have to get to the airport, go through security, and acclimate to an unfamiliar destination.

Furthermore, travel-related expenses can add up, like paying airline pet fees, buying TSA–approved supplies, checking additional bags to compensate for your carry-on cat, and more. It might all wind up being as pricey as a pet sitter might cost, or as expensive as renting a car and going on a road trip with your cat, or another option you’re considering anyway.

So how do you decide? Dr. Smith notes that young kittens, elderly cats, and cats with underlying health issues may not tolerate air travel well, and for most cats, short flights will be more manageable than long ones. The same goes for nonstop flights versus those with multiple legs.

Physical health and flight details aside, your cat’s personality could predict how chill (or unchill) they might be on the journey. “A cat’s temperament is crucial,” says Dr. Smith. “Cats that are easily stressed, nervous, or aggressive may not be suitable for air travel.”

At the end of the day, though, these are cats we’re talking about. It’s impossible to know for certain how even the chillest pile of fluff will react to plane travel until you try it. Beyond your vet’s recommendations and acute safety concerns, you’ll probably have to make a decision based on a mix of your circumstances, your knowledge of your cat, and your gut.

The good news: You’re more likely to be pleasantly surprised than met with total disaster, at least anecdotally speaking. “It definitely wasn’t as bad as I worried it would be the first time,” says cat owner Suz Warshell, who has traveled twice with her cat Lentil, both times internationally to Mexico.

Frequent feline flier Sahalie Martin echoes that sentiment, noting that she didn’t run into many of the issues she was prepared to deal with when she traveled with her kitty Molly, like security chaos or accidents in her crate. That said, both Martin and Warshell agree that preparing for things to go wrong still gives them peace of mind when traveling.

Preparing to fly with a cat

Make an appointment with your vet sooner rather than later, especially if you didn’t consult them before booking your flight. According to Dr. Smith, they’ll assess your cat’s individual health, temperament, and general fitness for air travel, as well as ensure that your cat’s vaccinations are up to date.

And if you think your cat is in good health, or the airline you chose doesn’t require that kind of documentation? Pay them a visit anyway. Your vet can help you prepare and provide guidance on how to travel safely , says Dr. Smith. Importantly, they’ll advise you on ways you can manage your cat’s anxiety, including milder-than-sedation options like prescription medication, over-the-counter supplements, or special treats.

After that, Dr. Smith recommends getting your cat nice and comfortable with their carrier since familiarity can reduce stress during travel. (He also suggests packing favorite items, such as a toy or blanket, in the carrier for the same reason.) So if you buy a new carrier or don’t use the one you own frequently, try to acclimate them to it leading up to your flight.

Meaghan Kenny

Emily Pennington

Jessica Chapel

Jamie Spain

From personal experience, there’s no need to take them on unnecessary strolls around the block in their carrier. I simply left mine unzipped around the apartment the week leading up to the flight. My cat Francis quickly took to sleeping in it, and when the time came to load him up for the airport, it was noticeably easier than taking him to the vet in it a month prior.

But again, these are cats we’re dealing with, so your mileage will vary. No amount of training helped Martin’s cat Molly acclimate to her collar, for example, so Martin now tailors her pre-travel routine accordingly. “I just put it on [Molly] right before we go because I know she hates it,” she says. “No matter how much I have her wear it, she's gonna keep hating it.”

Stocking up to fly with a cat

Speaking of things your cat might hate, you’ll also need a few supplies before they can jet set with you. Most likely, they will be traveling in the cabin under the seat in front of you; few airlines allow cats to fly in the cargo, where they’re subject to more extreme temperatures, poor ventilation, and rough handling. This means you’ll need a pet carrier that fits the airline’s specifications for its size, shape, and material. You may also want to consider a harness, collar, or leash for added safety, since you’ll have to take your cat out of their carrier to go through security.

If you don’t already have one, there are a variety of TSA–approved carriers out there to choose from. For example, Martin likes this backpack-style carrier , which causes her less strain than one-shoulder options. Oh, and a tip from me: A durable carrier is worth the splurge. Trust me—if your anxious cat claws his way out of a cheap one and sprints free across the terminal, you’ll just have to buy a ridiculously overpriced replacement at the airport anyway. (True story.)

In terms of other supplies, Darnell Christopher, a New York City–based flight attendant with 10 years of experience, recommends coming prepared with what you need to be a courteous passenger. For instance, Martin and Warshell say it’s never a bad idea to stock up on sanitary items, like pee pads to line the carrier, which can simplify cleanup in the event of an accident. You might also pack sanitary wipes, a mini lint roller for excess hair, or extra foam earplugs to offer your neighbors just in case your kitty is noisier than expected.

Navigating the airport with a cat

Ahead of travel, don’t withhold food or water in an attempt to stave off unwelcome bowel or bladder movements on the plane. Ditto overfeeding to compensate for any meals they’d skip on the flight. Just feed and hydrate them as usual, says Dr. Smith. Other than that, leave yourself plenty of time before you board the plane. Give every cat-related step a generous buffer, just in case your cat decides to cat. For example, you probably don’t want to call your cab before your beast is safely in their carrier. And it might not be a great idea to unzip your cat at security before dealing with your inanimate belongings.

On that note, here’s how the process at airport security is traditionally supposed to go down: You’ll be asked to take your cat out of the carrier, send the empty carrier through the X-ray, carry your cat through the metal detector, and then put them back in on the other side.

But before you do any of that, do yourself a favor and ask a TSA officer for a private screening room instead. It’s not always advertised as an option, but one is likely available. Believe me, it is much easier to wrangle a struggling, scared kitty in and out of a carrier when you’re not holding up a line of frustrated travelers and worried about your furry companion getting loose in the airport. Plus, it allows you to take a second to offer your cat some comforting pets.

Actually flying with a cat

Good news, it’s the home stretch! The journey leading up to the flight is often more nerve-wracking than the flight itself, so you’re mostly in the clear from here. Once you board, Martin recommends giving your seatmates a heads-up that you have a cat, since many people won’t notice right away. “I always like to say, ‘By the way, I have a cat here under the seat. Let me know if that’s an issue,’” she says.

If there is an issue—like sitting next to someone who’s allergic to cats—Christopher recommends flagging down a flight attendant; he says it’s all part of the job. So if you’re worried about causing trouble on the plane by traveling with your fur baby, don’t sweat it. It’s not unusual for flight attendants to move passengers around or request passengers swap seats as needed. Same goes for them helping you in the event your cat has an accident. “These things happen,” Christopher says. “It’s just about communicating so we can utilize the tools that we have.”

During the flight itself, Dr. Smith suggests monitoring your cat throughout. (One of the reasons Warshell likes her carrier: It opens from both the top and the sides. “It’s nice because I can open it a tiny bit and slip my hand in when I’m on the plane to pet my cat from above,” she explains.) You’ll want to ensure the carrier stays well-ventilated and secure, and keep an eye out for signs of distress or overheating, such as excessive panting, vocalization, or lethargy. If you do see these signs, alert a flight attendant and ask if it’s possible to move your pet to an area with better airflow and lower temperature within the cabin, recommends Dr. Smith. You can also offer your cat a small amount of water.

Last but not least, once you reach your destination and arrive at your new or temporary home, get your kitty’s necessities set up and give them time to adjust to the new environment. “Be patient and provide a quiet, safe space for them to explore at their own pace,” says Dr. Smith.

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Your ultimate guide to flying internationally with a cat: Tips & Essentials

January 28, 2019 by Karen Turner 56 Comments

One of the most challenging experiences that we had in terms of moving abroad was moving our cat. I adopted Lu in the United States at a shelter. Admittedly, she’s not so keen on traveling, but I knew that when we moved abroad that she had to come with us. Since then, she’s traveled with us to four countries following our various moves around Europe by plane and by train. I include my experience traveling with my cat internationally, some tips for traveling with your cat, and my favorite cat traveling accessories, including an airline approved pet carrier.

I urge you not to underestimate how many hours it takes to properly research flying with your cat to your destination as well as preparing them for the move. Cats are creatures of habit and it can be very traumatizing for many cats to be uprooted from their home. I can’t really say that it’s fun traveling with a cat, but sometimes it comes to this when making a significant move abroad with your cat.

• Tips for flying internationally with your cat
• Traveling with multiple cats
• Why you shouldn’t put your cat under the plane

Should you drug your cat for travel?

What you need to do before traveling with your cat.

• Cat traveling essentials

The best airline approved cat carrier

• Our experience flying internationally with a cat on a transatlantic flight
• Our experience flying within the EU with our cat
• Our experience taking the Thalys with a cat

• 1.1 Before you travel with your cat internationally
• 2 Traveling on the plane with your cat
• 3.1 Traveling internationally with multiple cats
• 3.2 Why you should consider NOT putting your cat underneath the plane
• 3.3 Should you drug your cat for travel?
• 4 What you need to do before traveling with your cat
• 5.1 The best airline approved cat carrier
• 5.2 Cat collar
• 5.3 Cat harness*
• 5.4 Folding cat bowls
• 5.5 Calming Spray
• 5.6 Portable Cat Bed*
• 5.7 Portable Litter Box*
• 6 Our experience flying internationally with our cat on a transatlantic flight
• 7 Flying within the EU with a cat
• 8 Taking the Thalys train with our cat
• 9 Have you flown internationally with your cat?

Tips for flying with your cats internationally

Before you travel with your cat internationally.

In general, I recommend not traveling with your cats unless you’re moving for a significant period. Both of my cats do not travel well and if it’s a few weeks, I found that it was better to board them at a facility rather than bring them with me to a destination where the paperwork would make my life more complicated.

In general, it’s generally cheaper to buy a round-trip ticket rather than a one-way ticket. Try to time the way back with when you think you’ll next head home, so you only need to purchase the way back to your new home.

If you intend to fly internationally with your cat, you need to carefully check the requirements of your final destination as well as possible transit destinations. Your cat needs to be healthy in order to fly. I had to first ensure that she was up-to-date on her vaccinations. Talk to your vet .

Some countries require a rabies vaccination to be given a certain amount of time ahead. As a result, you’ll need to plan at least 1-2 months ahead if you’re traveling from a high rabies country as a blood test may need to be done and your cat will need to have their vaccines done in advance. I had to bring my cat in for a check-up shortly before flying in each case to ensure that she was ready.

If you can minimize your travel time, do it by getting a direct flight. Your cat will appreciate it. Your cat will be stressed, hungry, and tired from the travel. Fewer flights will reduce the likelihood that you have a delay or missed transfer.

If you have a rolling suitcase , I recommend putting your cat carrier on top and rolling your suitcase slowly. I’ve tried a couple of ways in terms of minimizing trauma when traveling en route to the airport using public transit/walking and this way worked the best. It’s smooth, your cat is less likely to be jostled within the bag, and they can look out more easily!

If you can travel with your cat in the cabin, do it. I felt so guilty every time that I’ve traveled with Lu, however, it’s a small relief to be able to see how the cat is doing. Your cat might be deeply unhappy, however, at least you can give them water and pet them to calm them if needed. Just be careful about unzipping the bag, so they don’t escape!

Book your cat’s plane ticket in advance. Most airlines that allow animals on board have a limit on how many animals can be brought with you. I had to pay extra to bring Lu as my “carry-on” item and she had to fit in the space near my feet in her carrier.

Traveling on the plane with your cat

As soon as you get on the flight, talk to the flight attendants as well as those around you to check that nobody is allergic. Similarly, it’s good to notify the flight attendants of your furry friend on board just in case something goes wrong.

Keep your cat’s documents with you somewhere that is easily accessible. You might need to show them several times, so don’t put them away in your suitcase. I keep mine in the side pocket of my cat carrier . I have been rarely asked for them, but you never know!

Make sure that your cat carrier has a tag that states your information on it, including your phone number. I made sure that Lu was wearing a collar that stated my phone number on it, just in case she ran off.

The biggest risk in losing your cat is during security when they must be removed from the carrier to be carried through security with you. If you can find a non-metal collar , that’s probably best as you might need to remove the collar during security. I also had a photo of her on my phone, just in case.

Get through security when it’s not so busy and find a quiet place to sit. I recommend giving yourself extra time at the airport. That said, airports are really loud places and if you’ll be there for a while, find a quiet corner away from music, security, and people talking loudly to sit. Your cat will thank you!

Clip your cat’s nail before you travel. You’ll need to carry them through security most likely…and it’s not fun being clawed into with sharp kitty claws.

Avoid feeding your cat 4-6 hours before traveling. I caved during my flight with Lu and gave her a treat, which resulted in her pooping (a small bit) in the litter box. Obviously, for cats, this is not comfortable. I recommend carrying a small folding cat bowl that can be used for water if needed. I bought a water bottle once through security just to give Lu water as needed.

Once you arrive at your destination with your cat

Once you’re somewhere less chaotic and enclosed, let your cat out. They’ll probably be a bit traumatized from the journey as well as hungry/thirsty. The sooner that you can get a litter box, the better as they’ll probably need it.

Check with your hotel that it’s cat-friendly before you go . I find that dog-friendly hotels are often surprised that you want to bring a cat, but you’ll pay a premium for finding a cat-friendly hotel . Even if they say that they’re pet-friendly, not all will accept cats.

On average, you’ll pay 30-40% extra with the majority of hotels telling you no. It’s frustrating, but book your hotels/accommodation in advance as soon as you know your traveling dates. I always try to emphasize that my cat is very well behaved and doesn’t go outside.

Travel can be really hard on cats and it can take your cat weeks to get used to your new home. If possible, try to move slowly to avoid changing accommodations too often as they’ll want to be at home. I recommend looking for places with good windows (like our Paris apartment).

Traveling internationally with multiple cats

An acquaintance of mine contacted me about my experience moving abroad as she was moving with her two cats and one small dog. Airlines usually allow one pet per person, so she found out that it was cheaper to pay for a close friend’s round-trip ticket to her new home (e.g. a free vacation) than it was to have someone else bring her dog. Her friend got a free trip out of it and she got to bring her cats with her.

Why you should consider NOT putting your cat underneath the plane

Quite a few cat breeds, especially Persians, may have issues related to breathing and heat stroke. Putting certain cats into cargo may be a bad idea. Even if your cat is a mutt like mine, your cat might be hyperventilating during the flight. Coming with the uncertainty of not knowing what is going on and the sounds, your cat might be really anxious underneath the plane and/or have issues during the flight.

Some carriers will report the percentage of animals in their care that were injured or killed in transit. Choose carefully if you are considering putting your cat underneath the plane. Ask around if possible.

Lu tends to hyperventilate when on a plane and inside a car, so I opted to take longer to travel with her if it meant having her with me to check on her, even if there was a layover. I ended up going with Aeroflot due to their cat-friendly policy, which allowed her to sit near my feet!

Talk to your vet about your travel plans. I’ve seen several vets about traveling with my cat. Only one of them recommended drugging my cat for travel while the rest said that it was enough just to use a calming spray . There are a number of other drugs, but you should discuss what is most appropriate with your vet.

Generally, cats are given something similar to Xanax (benzodiazepines) if they’ll be traveling a long distance. This is what my cat had gotten prescribed for our U.S. to Netherlands move, however, it left her disoriented and unable to sleep. Since then, I’ve not used a drug.

• 6 Months ahead: Book your cat’s plane ticket and find a cat-friendly airline.
• 5 months ahead: Find out your airline’s paperwork requirements for flying with your cat. Your cat might need to be microchipped with a different chip if it’s not the same where you’re traveling.
• 2 Months ahead: Talk to your vet about your travels. Ensure that your cat’s vaccines are up to date.
• 1-2 months ahead: Ensure that your cat’s travel documents are up-to-date. Possibly see the vet and make relevant appointments shortly before your travels.
• 1-2 months ahead: Organize relevant transportation (buses don’t usually allow cats) and cat-friendly accommodations in your new destination.
• 1 Month out: Buy a good cat carrier , calming spray , cat collar , a cat harness , and other relevant supplies (see below)
• 1 Month out: Call your airline to check that all is well.
• 2-3 weeks ahead: Take care of relevant travel documents (if required)
• Week of travel: Check-up with your vet to ensure that your cat is healthy to fly. Clip your cat’s nails.
• The day before travel: Give your cat a nice meal 12 hours before! Organize your cat’s travel documents. Spray the carrier with Feliway and leave it out for them to explore.
• Day of travel: Stop feeding your cat 6 hours before your travels. Get the cat into the carrier. Leave early for the airport. Keep calm and try to find somewhere quiet.
• Day of arrival: Buy litterbox and cat litter once you arrive. (You can bring a small litter box with you if you arrive late at night) Feed your cat and let them relax/sleep.

Cat essentials for flying internationally

I got this bag around five years ago. This Argo by Teafco Pet Avion Airline Approved Pet Carrier perfectly fits my cat (who is on the smaller side) and it’s built cleverly. Inside, you’ll find a leash that hooks into your cat’s collar as to ensure they can’t escape the bag. Similarly, there’s a way for you to reach your hand inside without the cat escaping if you wish to calm them. There are several pockets around the bag, which can fit Feliway, travel documents, and cat travel accessories.

Most importantly, I love this bag as people assume that it’s a carry-on bag, not a cat bag. Travel is stressful enough for my cat and having strangers trying to pet her doesn’t help. She can look out of the bag through the mesh sides without people peeking in, which has been great for international travel with a cat. ( In quite a few cases, I was never asked about the cat as they didn’t realize I had a cat with me.)

In general, I recommend getting a soft cat carrier if you’ll be flying internationally as your cat needs to fit underneath the seat in front of you. If your cat is larger, you’ll want to get a larger bag to ensure they have room to move around. There might be some squishing of the carrier, so it’s much easier to have a soft bag. (Every vet that I’ve seen in Europe has asked me where I got this bag.)

I recommend ensuring that your cat has a cat collar as you’ll probably want to use the collar to clip your cat into the bag (if possible) and/or connect them to the cat leash. You might need to remove your cat collar if it contains metal, so choose carefully. If you can attach your phone number to the collar, that’s great. Ensure that it’s snug, but not too tight.

Cat harness*

Your cat might be frustrated inside of the bag. I found the cat harness to be helpful, however it’s really hard getting your cat into a cat harness in the middle of an airport. A handicap-accessible toilet might be a good option if you want to get your cat into a harness. In my case, I attached the harness directly to her collar to ensure she wouldn’t wander off.

Folding cat bowls

You cat might get thirsty during the journey and once you arrive at your destination, you’ll want to feed your cat. It was really helpful having folding cat bowls as it enabled my cat to eat as soon as we got cat food. (I brought some with me in a plastic bag.)

Calming Spray

Feliway has helped my cats travel. This spray mimics cats pheromones given off by mothers to help calm kittens. It can help reduce stress in some cases. I recommend putting an item of your clothing that smells like you and spraying it with Feliway before putting it at the bottom of the carrier.

Portable Cat Bed*

As I had to get rid of the cat bed that my cat loved, I ended up buying a smaller foldable cat bed that was in my house for a few weeks before my travels. My cat liked it as it was a good way for her to feel safe in a new environment. Similarly, it was squishy enough that I used it as a pillow in transit.

Portable Litter Box*

If you’re arriving late at night, you’ll want to bring a portable litter box with you as litter is typically easier to get at some late night shops/supermarkets, however you generally need to go to a pet store for the litter box.

Our experience flying internationally with our cat on a transatlantic flight

My first international flight with my cat was flying from New York to Amsterdam via Moscow. When moving to Amsterdam, flying Aeroflot with the cat was our best option for an affordable airline that allowed cats in the cabin. It took many hours to find a flight that would allow her in the cabin, but that was non-negotiable.

In our case, the paperwork involved my vet gave her an examination clearing her for flying prior to submitting the paperwork to a federal agency to be stamped. Ask your vet for the procedure for where you’re traveling. Some airlines have limited space for animals, so you should ensure that you reserve your cat’s place in advance. I reserved my cat’s place as soon as my ticket was booked.

On the day of our flight, we showed the paperwork as we checked our bags and headed through security. Security was difficult as Lu is very noise-sensitive and the various noises did not help at all. I was forced to take her out of the carrier as I went through the metal detector. She was very scared and clung to me. Once we were through security, she calmed down a bit.

Once on the plane, we asked everyone around if they were allergic to cats. (The passengers and the flight attendants doted over us and asked to pet her.) It was very painless. She was very quiet although very anxious during the flight. I checked on my cat at several points and she was too upset to sleep. As per our vet’s recommendation, we avoided feeding her during the plane ride and withheld food 4-6 hours before our flight.

Finally, once we arrived in Moscow for our layover. We put her on a cat leash and let her sit on one of the seats. She immediately curled up and took a small nap. Nearby, two burly Russian guys took selfies with her. On the next flight, she meowed quite a bit, but we managed to get to Amsterdam. We immediately went out and bought a litterbox for her as it was day-time.

Flying within the EU with a cat

If you’re traveling within or from the EU with your cat, I strongly recommend seeing if you can get your cat an EU pet passport . It will make your life a lot easier as it shows their complete medical record as well as recent examinations. Just a few days before our flight, we brought her to a vet for a pre-flight examination as required by our airline, who we booked her ticket through.

Last summer, we lived in Brussels while waiting for our French visas. We ended up flying with BlueAir, a budget European airline to Romania and France. The process was fairly decent as my cat already had an EU pet passport. She simply had to get examined by a vet in the days prior to the flight to clear her for health. At this point, she was up-to-date on her vaccinations.

I had Lu on a leash clipped to her collar. The most stressful part was security where one of the employees required that I take the collar off. I had to carry her through airport security, which was an immensely stressful experience for both of us. She tried at one point to jump back into her box as it passed through security.

The flight itself was fine, however we flew twice with her. It was quite hard on her and given the option, I prefer to take the train. That said, you will have limited options as most of the major bus companies in Europe do not allow cats on them, which is quite aggravating as a pet owner.

Taking the Thalys train with our cat

I’ve taken the Thalys with my cat between Belgium and the Netherlands and France and the Netherlands. Cats were free and allowed when I traveled, however I had to have all my cat’s documents in order (similar to a plane). She had stay underneath the seat.

When boarding the Thalys, you’ll need to scan your items. It was quite nerve-wracking going through the security line in Paris, which as outside next to the train tracks. I had to remove Lu from her bag and carry her through security. It was loud and I’d be a bit apprehensive about doing this with a cat who tends to run when they’re scared.

Once on the Thalys, I found my seat. The journey was uneventful and at one point, the conductor asked about the cat. On one journey, a woman next to me refused to sit next to me as I had a cat. (She was pregnant.) I was a bit confused, but she moved across the way with the permission of the conductor. The journey was easy and my cat was far more relaxed than traveling by slower trains and flying.

Have you flown internationally with your cat?

• More tips for traveling with your cat

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

May 15, 2019 at 8:44 pm

do you have a recommendation of a vet in The Hague who is familiar with what is needed for cat “import”? will be bringing my fluffy friends and want to be sure I have all the proper docs up front. I am not in an EU country right now so they don’t know the regulations.

May 16, 2019 at 3:49 pm

Hi Molly, You should be able to ring basically any vet in the center of the Hague. I”m not sure if they’ll help you as you’re not a client (maybe if you promise to become a client!), but you should definitely check with your airline too. Depending on whether the country is high rabies, you might need to do an extra paperwork. There’s some good information on the various pet transit websites and it’s so different by country that I can’t say for sure. Best of luck moving to NL! 🙂

June 9, 2019 at 10:11 pm

I suggest you contact the nearest consulate or embassy for the Netherlands, they should be able to help you. Otherwise, their should be the correct info on their government website or the corresponding EU website. I am moving to France from the USA and found clear instructions on the French government and EU sites. On the latter, I was able to print out the documents which needed to be filled out by the vet in the country of departure (with instructions on how it should be filled out) and also a copy of the EU pet passport which you can print out. Your cat will need to be microchipped with an EU approved chip and also have its rabies vaccine up to date. If the cats aren`t vaccinated for rabies they have to have a primo vaccine and may have to have a titration (?) done by an approved lab 3 months before travelling. I`d advise you to look into this as soon as possible as there may be time limitations for some procedures. Best of luck with your move!

December 12, 2020 at 2:59 am

There are U.S. Veterinarians that are specialized on preparing the needed documents and doing the health exam within 10 days of flight. Not every vet does this but every community has one. We have reserved the cat spaces 6 weeks prior to the flight (during Covid). It is true, if your cat does not have rabies shot yet, you need more time for preparing the transfer, one has to wait 21 days for the rabies shot before being able to travel. One has to submit the documents to the animal export department of your state, which provides a quick turnaround with courier service. If you stay in Europe and travel with your pet there for a while we recommend getting a European animal passport through a vet there. Some countries (Switzerland) are annoyed looking at the U.S. documents and feel suspicious about them or don’t take the effort to understand them. Once the agent did not want to check us on the flight from Zurich to Greece… until her supervisor did a great job in understanding the U.S. health certification papers. This can be stressful.

June 9, 2019 at 10:13 pm

Thank you for all this great info Karen. I have traveled to several countries with dogs (diplomat husband) but never with a cat, you have helped a lot and reassured me!

July 1, 2019 at 3:46 pm

I have 3 cats and will be making the daunting move from UK to Canada. It will be close to impossible for me to have all 3 with me on the plane (Probably 1 can go with me – as she is the most nervous) but they will have to sit in the belly of the plane. i have discussed arrangements with PetAir, but after reading your blog speaking on dead pets absolutely worries me. Have you any tips on how I can go around this?

Many thanks

July 2, 2019 at 11:07 am

Apologies, but I don’t have any easy answers. Can a friend help you with the move to bring another cat on the plane?

September 17, 2020 at 8:40 pm

I have just been reading this blog for some reassurance and panicked at the same part you did. I am doing Canada to the UK in the next few weeks and it’s basically impossible for me to have my cat in the cabin with me due to UK laws. He also has to do two flights in two days due to the current flight situation with COVID. How did your cats do on the journey? I’m terrified something is going to happen to him and I won’t be aware. My cat is only 2 years old and healthy but I’m still so very nervous about it all!

March 25, 2021 at 4:07 pm

I am confused as I have fo fly two cats from DC to Brussels. When I get there I have to take them to hotel take and then to a vet for EU passport right?How do I do that and how long does it take as I have to take a nother flight out? Can you leave airport without a passport?

May 10, 2021 at 2:34 pm

I’d check with your airline as the EU passport is generally for cats already within the EU. It’s a good thing to get long-term once you have a vet. It takes quite a bit of paperwork/time though!

June 9, 2022 at 10:48 pm

Thanks for all this recommendations and insights, even so we have some questions not sure if yourw famiwith:

Were curre3in The Hague and will be moving to Bangkok in August and we have 2 cats. They can only for with KLM on the Cargo, and for that we need special cages that should be IATA approved, but we seem to find it difficult to find them here in Europe as to be 100% approved as they must have metal screws and so on ( do you know any approved one?)

Then the papers are of a different issue, and I think we can deal with it!

December 1, 2022 at 8:54 pm

I am sure PetPlus should have a good cage. If you have already moved, I would love to know how it went!

July 4, 2019 at 12:44 pm

Hi Karen…some great tips. Just curious to know how a 15 pound cat is able to fit Beneath the seat, in a carrier. Can one simply purchase an additional ticket? Thanks

July 4, 2019 at 1:10 pm

Hi Ric, I recommend asking your airline as the weight requirement varies by airline. 🙂

Best of luck, Karen

August 12, 2021 at 3:36 am

I traveled from Italy to Us with three cats. My big boy Orly also weighed 15 pounds. He did not make the requirements for under seat, so in the end I had to put them on in the as cargo in the hold to be able to take all 3 together. It was so stressful and very expensive. Especially nerve wracking as by law at least in 2014 , could not be on a flight longer than 10 hours. So we had to fly through a Eu city that had special overnight animal accommodation, which I was not allowed to check in on them as they were considered cargo. They do get fed and cleaned checked by a vet at this point. When I got on board in the morning, I asked the flight attendant to confirm for me they made it on board, and soon the captain made an announcement: “to the lady with the cats, I confirm they are all on board! ” It all went fine, we arrived in San Fransisco, and it is still a bit of an ordeal to get the customs approval stamped and driving here and there to pick them up. Withstanding restrictions for traveling in very hot or cold weather also. I would try anything else to try and bring them on board in cabin, and finding the most direct route, or one that has a comfortable layover. They do make very light weight, ( a couple of pounds) carriers so he might just make the cut. If you have a long time you could put him on a careful diet to lose a pound ( but slowly!) I am about to return after several years with just one, who is fortunately in the weight category so I found a flight combination with a long enough layover to go to.a hotel and refresh before the next leg.

July 26, 2019 at 10:14 pm

That’s a good idea to work closely with your vet for how to get your pet onto the plane and how to reserve a spot for them. My best friend doesn’t like to leave her cat during vacations so I’ll have to make sure she knows this. For me, I’d rather leave my cat behind at the vet’s boarding quarters so that I know she’s taken care of and doesn’t have to deal with the toll and stress of flying.

October 6, 2019 at 8:12 am

We have to get our cat ( and a snake) from Australia to the UK – this is not going to be fun!

October 25, 2019 at 10:32 pm

Thank you so much for this information. We are relocating to Ireland from the US next year with our two cats. I am worried about the travel but feel a bit more confident having read about your experience and tips. One of my cats meowed the whole way on a four hour car trip once, so I’m hoping the Feliway will help her, otherwise I may have to look into other options as I’m sure that will not be acceptable on a 10 hour flight. We also have two 5 year old children to contend with so it should be an adventure for sure! And I am getting that cat carrier! Thanks again.

October 27, 2019 at 10:39 am

Glad to hear that Brenda! Talk to your vet as they might have some recommendations.

March 1, 2022 at 12:26 am

Hey Brenda, we’re transporting a 5.4kg cat from Mexico to Ireland: how did you find your experience? It’s becoming a massive challenge for us, both in paperwork and maintaining our sanity. We want it to be as easy as possible for our little baby: have you any tips?

December 23, 2019 at 11:51 pm

I’m moving to Paris for three months with my Exotic Shorthair kitten, Waldo. He’s very social and has traveled by plane, but I am counting on total time door to door from my West Coast home t my Paris apartment will likely be about 18 hours. He has his rabies shot, and all his vaccinations are up to date. I plan a visit with my vet in March (our flight is in early April).

Do you know of any good pet supply stores in Paris? I will be bringing almost none of Waldo’s equipment, and plan to buy a scratching post, litter box, and maybe a climbing tree in Paris. I’ll bring a portable littler box and bag of litter on the plane, his food bowl, and his favorite blanket. CDG is the world’s worst airport for humans, and I dread negotiating it with a 12 pound kitten (Waldo is enormous!)

Our apartment is in St. Germaine in the 6éme arrondissement. Any help or additional tips you have will be greatly appreciated. We are flying business class on Delta, so I believe Waldo will have a somewhat quiet, safe little space for this long long flight.

December 24, 2019 at 12:25 am

I went to my neighborhood ones, which weren’t within the 6e. You will be best to ask within the local Paris expat group for others’ recommendations. Best of luck with the move and hopefully Waldo will enjoy his new Parisian apartment. 🙂

July 7, 2020 at 8:21 pm

Thank you SO MUCH! My husband and I are making a Trans-Atlantic move soon & this is the most thorough & *actually* helpful guide I’ve found.

July 28, 2020 at 4:57 am

Hi, I am Curious if the airline staff will allow the cat to be out of her cage for few minutes. I know my cat will be way more secure if I have her on my lap (with leash so others are not afraid of her). She is not an aggressive cat AT ALL! We’re you allowed to take your cat out during a long flight?

July 29, 2020 at 7:31 pm

I was told strictly that I wasn’t allowed to let my cat out.

August 16, 2020 at 11:49 pm

i’m considering a move to london from nyc. do you know which airlines allow in-cabin cats on transatlantic flights? so far, it seems all of the major carriers (united, british airways, virgin atlantic, american airlines, norwegian, etc.) only allow cargo transport which is a no-go.

thanks! melody

August 22, 2020 at 12:15 am

Apologies, but this list frequently changes. Best to check which airlines fly between the destination–and go through all of their policies

August 4, 2021 at 4:27 pm

Did you manage to fly your cat? Turkish Airlines allows cats, plus 2 luggages as checked in bag, they are the best for US-Europe travel

August 28, 2020 at 3:52 pm

Did your vet mention any risks with traveling even when they are in the cab of the plane? Do some cats get so stressed that they die from the long flight?

My cat is 16 now and I’m not sure if her age would cause problems traveling that far. I’m wondering if it would be a bad idea to take an older cat that far

September 15, 2020 at 1:33 am

Yes, there are risks associated with flying with older cats. This is why you should discuss the issue with your vet.

January 15, 2021 at 9:20 am

thanks so much for this information! We have to fly cats from the east coast of the US to France this coming summer. Do you have any recommendations for airlines. Is Air France possible? Also, of course, we are going to have to fly in the middle of this pandemic. Any suggestions as to the best way to do this? We are French citizens with US passports also, so we are authorized to fly between the two countries. But, I’m looking at this as being a nightmare scenario. All the best and many thanks, Valerie

March 19, 2021 at 2:58 pm

Apologies, but it’s really hard as some have suspended pet services during COVID. You will need to contact each airline, but I believe KLM might allow cats and AirFrance/KLM are technically one company 🙂

March 10, 2021 at 9:02 pm

Hi – Thanks so much for all this great info! I’ve been stressed about our upcoming move from Canada to India with 2 cats (with one having a heart condition). The whole journey could take 24-30 hours total but we are hoping to fly with them. In your experience, what might be the longest flight duration a cat can handle? We will probably have 1 or more connecting flights with the transatlantic flight being about 12-14 hours long. I am concerned about them pooping/peeing on such a long flight. Also, during layovers are there pet areas at airports where cats can poop/pee? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks once again for such insightful information.

June 9, 2022 at 4:28 pm

Hello, can you share how it went, I am travelling my self 24hs journey by plane too, and I have the same questions you had before. Thank you so much in advance!

July 23, 2021 at 8:03 pm

Thank you! Onni and I are about to take our first flight from Finland for a 6-month work stint in the UK, and I’m reading everything I can find. In case other readers are facing having to take their cat to the UK “as cargo” due to its entry rules, here’s a tip: you can fly into Paris with your cat and then hire a service to drive you both through the Eurotunnel, following proper customs procedures. It is NOT an inexpensive service, but in my case it worked out pretty much the same price as cargo. Our vehicle will have a large crate that Onni can move around in with his travel litter tray and bed.

August 6, 2021 at 10:20 am

Hello! Thanks so much for all the information you shared! I plan to travel from Austria to Brazil with my cat in a few months. I have some questions regarding the transatlantic flights. Did you feed your cat during the long flights? And what about peeing and pooping? I read in many blogs that it’s extremely dangerous for cats if they don’t eat anything in 8 hours, that could damage their liver. Could you share more information about it? Thanks!

March 17, 2022 at 9:46 pm

Please ask your vet for advice here. 🙂

September 30, 2021 at 3:42 pm

Hi Karen, thanks for this very helpful and informative piece! You mentioned that if going away for just a few weeks, it may be better to find boarding or a pet sitter as cats are sensitive to changes in their environment. I will be away visiting family in Europe for six weeks over the holidays, making two stops in two different countries (thanks for the info on the pet passport!) What is the duration of time away that you personally consider bringing your cats traveling with you? I am collecting different opinions as I don’t think there is one “right” answer to this question, and it could also depend on the cat.

March 17, 2022 at 10:01 pm

I try not to travel with my cats as they do not enjoy it. They stay at home. I would only bring them personally if I was going for more than 2 months or moving permanently.

October 5, 2021 at 4:29 am

Hi, I’m traveling from Dubai to Italy with a stop in Amsterdam and the company told me the second flight would be late of 3h, my concern is the trip would be 15h. My cat 1 and half year.old and he’s scared of everything. There’s any per friend zone in Amsterdam airport? Also the carrier bag looks small for my cat for such a long trip. I want to be able somehow to take him out and make him feel more comfortable. Also should I feed him in the time I wait the second plane ? I won’t leave my cat 24h without eating. I’m very worried.

March 17, 2022 at 10:02 pm

There is a place for dogs, but not for cats in Amsterdam. If you have a leash or ask staff, potentially that is something that can happen. Airports are busy, so I am not sure that taking your cat out is always the best move either. Please ask your vet for advice.

January 21, 2022 at 8:32 pm

I’ve held off moving back to the US from Australia because I was terrified to have my cats on such a long flight. This has helped a bit thank you, but I think I’m the one who will need Xanax not my cats! Anyone have tips for the parent on how to cope? Or what to do if your cat meows the whole time? I swear I’m more stressed out than they’ll probably be.

March 17, 2022 at 10:16 pm

I felt the same, but I hope that your journey goes well. I was stressed too, but it will stress your cat out more if you are stressed out!

February 15, 2022 at 4:59 pm

This has been super helpful! I am preparing to fly my cat from the UK to Singapore via Amsterdam. I had been reading that you can ask for a security search in a separate examination room and I was really hoping that would be the case, I take it you found airport security quite unforgiving with having to carry Lu through? Thanks Zoe

March 17, 2022 at 9:43 pm

It depends on the cat. They were kind, but she was just scared and very skittish. A private room might be a good idea for some cats!

April 19, 2022 at 11:25 pm

Hi Karen, Thank you for this well written and thorough article. Can I DM you for specific questions that I have? -Deepika

April 21, 2022 at 2:44 pm

I am not flown in a long time with my cats, so I would encourage you to contact your airline!

June 19, 2022 at 12:18 am

Hello Thank you for the tips ,I am going to travel with my cat this summer from Stockholm to Los Angles with a direct flight for 12 hours,I plan to take some food and littler box to use it during the flight but reading your article I understand that I should not feed my cat during flight?! And no litter box needed I was wondering how it is possible since I thin my trip door to door is around 18 hours can you please explain more how to take care of the cat during flight also can I bring out of her box little bit during flight ?!

December 1, 2022 at 9:07 pm

That is a really long flight! Please ask your vet as it might be tough for the cat to go so long. I was advised not to feed my cat before and she was too nervous to go, but she had to go really badly when we got home!

July 20, 2022 at 6:58 pm

Hello, In a couple of months I will have a terror flight with my 3 cats and 3 toddlers (4, 2, and 2 years old) . My mom is going to help me but am really afraid of the mess I will cause with the cats and the kids… We will fly from Mexico to Spain. One of the cats is really large and tends to be aggressive (he is 10 years old) I wonder if it is safe to make him sleep during the flight. We will have to take 2 flights, one domestic in Mexico and then the international. Total flight time will be approx 13 hs. All recommendations are well appreciated.

December 1, 2022 at 8:59 pm

I would recommend to talk to your vet or maybe arrange special transport for the one cat?

September 29, 2022 at 8:43 pm

We flew from Arizona to Portland (3 hours total) with 2 cats when we moved and it was a nightmare. They cried loudly the whole way. I felt for them plus it was embarrassing. We had the spray (not that one though) and even used some relaxer drug (but were afraid to give them too much). Im not sure if Im brave enough to try it again, especially internationally.

December 26, 2022 at 12:38 pm

I recently flew from my home in eastern Pennsylvania with my 2 year old cat the journey: took Uber from home to phl airport (2 hours) then a 3 hour wait at phl then 13 hour flight (on qatar airways) to doh and then 2 hour layover in doh and then 6.5 hour flight to Bangkok another 2 hours to get through customs and 1 hour to get to my destination in Bangkok. So doing the crude math my girl was in transit for well over 30 hours and she came through great! I give kudos to quatar airlways for her travel. One other thing I had a apple air tag on her collar which was helpful as I got a signal from it while in layover in Doha

March 3, 2023 at 7:45 pm

THANK YOU!!!

March 25, 2023 at 8:13 pm

Hi – My daugher has been living in Amsterdam for the past year and this summer, we are bringing her cat to her to live with her there. (btw, we are traveling from the US and total flight including layover will be about 12 hours). We will get all the necessary documents from the vet for her cat, however, my concern is his carrier for the flight. My daughter has a great one she has used when she has flown domestically (under seat in cabin with her), but I’m afraid it won’t fit the requirements for the airline for the international flight.Her cat is 13.5 lbs and fits fine in the carrier, but am afraid if I get s smaller one, they will say it is too small for him to move around…any suggestions? The current carrier is a Petsfit backpack carrier. Thanks for any suggestions.

April 3, 2023 at 2:41 pm

The airline requirements are what matter most at the end!

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Traveling with your cat? We’ve got some tips!

Help make their ride as comfortable as you can..

When you think of traveling with a pet, cats often take the back seat. Canine counterparts are thought of as good travel companions, but you can train your kitty to enjoy (or at least tolerate) a road trip, too!

Cats are known to be creatures of habit. That might explain why travel can cause stress in your feline friend. Cats prefer routine and the safety of their own home, and they aren’t always a big fan of change. But a little time, patience, and a lot of treats can help manage change-related stress.

Tips to successfully travel with your cat

1: Crate training

While traveling may be stressful, a crate can help calm your kitty. The main hurdle of crate training a cat is helping them see the crate as a good, happy place.

Too often, the crate is only used for transporting a cat to and from a veterinary visit. No wonder they’re not a fan! But you can change this feeling by setting the crate out so it becomes a part of their everyday space. Place a favorite blanket or toy in the crate, and make sure the door of the crate is securely fastened open so it won’t accidentally swing shut and frighten your kitty.

Next, using your cat’s favorite treats, put a few in front of the crate and in it. This encourages them to approach it on their own (and provides them with a reward for doing so).

Continue to use treats to encourage your cat to willingly go in the crate and stay in there. Once kitty is comfortable going in the crate and lying in it all on its own, start closing the door for a short time.

This training will take time. At first, your feline friend may be afraid of the sight of the crate ― it may take a few days to warm up to it. And it will take even more time for kitty to feel comfortable staying in the crate.

Once your cat is crate trained, it’ll be much easier to take them on planes or shorter car rides. Just be sure to always stock the crate with toys and treats! You’ll want to take short drives (down the block and back) for your kitty to get accustomed to being in your car.

2: Make your car a comfortable place for your cat

While a crate is a great option for shorter road trips, it’s not ideal for a trip longer than six hours. Your cat needs access to water and litter, and anything more than six hours is a bit unfair.

To give your cat a little more room, try a large dog crate. This way, they can move around and access water and litter as needed, and they're still contained so you don’t have to worry about them roaming around your car.

Only let your cat wander freely about your car as a last resort. Try keeping them harnessed or leashed to prevent them from hiding under seats or pedals, crawling into hiding spots you can’t reach, or escaping your car altogether.

As with crate training, your kitty needs a little time to get used to your car. A few weeks before your trip, let them roam around inside your parked car for a little while. And always offer treats so they know the car is a good place.

On the day of your trip, bring toys and comforts such as a blanket or bed. Place a litter box, or disposable litter bags, somewhere that’s easy to access. (If you can, avoid feeding them before the car ride to reduce their need to stink up your space.

Be extra careful when opening or closing car doors when your cat is loose. The last thing you want is for him to dart out a door and get lost in an unfamiliar place. Make sure your cat is wearing an ID tag so if there is an escape, they can be easily returned to you.

3: Ask your vet if medication is needed

If you’ve tried training your cat, but traveling is still super stressful, talk to your veterinarian. They may prescribe an anti-anxiety medication or mild sedative. Not only will this help with your cat’s stress levels, but it’ll also make your trip much more enjoyable.

If you don’t have a veterinarian, schedule an appointment at our Vet Centers now . If you need help finding a vet that's closer to you in proximity, start by reviewing our list of local veterinary clinics.

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Contact the Pet Helpline

8 Tips For Traveling with a Cat

If you are lucky enough to live with a cat, you are most likely aware of their desire for routine with as few surprises as possible. Cats are generally attached to their home environment, where they feel safe and secure. However, it may be necessary to travel with your cat, and there are many things you can do to ensure that it is as pleasant as possible for both of you. Preparation is definitely the key!

Make Sure You Have the Correct Cat Carrier

There are many types of cat carriers available , but an ideal carrier has a front and top opening to give you and your cat options for entry and exit.

It is also nice to be able to remove the top of a hard-sided carrier for a couple of reasons:

It offers a less stressful way to remove your cat from the carrier (do not “dump” your cat out of the front opening).

You can place a cozy blanket in the bottom of the carrier and place the carrier in a quiet spot in your home with the top off.

Allow your cat to check out the carrier before you travel; this can make going into the carrier just another part of your cat’s normal routine.

Get a carrier large enough for your cat to stand up and turn around in. If your cat is a larger breed, such as a Maine Coon, you may need to use a carrier designed for dogs to ensure that it’s big enough. Many cats also like having a blanket draped over the carrier to block out stress-inducing visual stimuli when traveling.

Cat Carrier Travel by Car

If you are traveling by car, try to make sure that the carrier is level in the vehicle, as this will feel more secure to your cat. It is also a good idea to buckle the carrier in the car with a seat belt if possible. Some carriers come with small dishes for food and water. If your trip is going to be several hours long, it is a good idea to offer small amounts of food and water in the carrier.

Cat Carrier Travel by Airplane

If you and your cat are traveling by airplane, a soft carrier with a waterproof bottom is preferred, but more than one entry and exit option should still be available.

You will be required to remove your cat from the carrier to go through TSA security screening, so be sure to have your cat wear a harness that you can attach a leash to, so you can safely hold your cat during this time. Airports can be loud, scary places, and you wouldn’t want your cat to get startled and run off.

 The carrier should not be larger than a typical carry-on bag—17.5 x 12 x 7.5 inches in some cases. Check with your airline for other requirements before you travel.

Chat With Your Veterinarian About Anxious Cats

If you know or suspect that your cat will be anxious during travel, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian well in advance of your trip to discuss options for preventing and treating anxiety. If your cat does not seem anxious, you can still get your veterinarian’s input on whether they recommend a medication or supplement. Your veterinarian will consider your cat’s age, demeanor, and overall health when making such recommendations.

If medication is prescribed, it’s a good idea to try it at home before you travel to make sure your cat tolerates it and does not have any undesirable side effects.

Examples of supplements and medications used for travel anxiety include:

Calming Care

Feliway Spray

Buprenorphine

Ensure You Have Cleaning Supplies for Your Cat

Despite your best efforts, accidents may happen when traveling with your cat. Pack some extra blankets or towels in case one gets soiled. It can also be helpful to place a disposable absorbent pad in the bottom of the carrier.

If traveling by car, bring along some paper towels and a cleaner in case you need to clean up urine, stool, or vomit. If you will be flying with your cat, unscented baby wipes or wipes designed for cats will help with any cleanup needed.

Pack Their Own Litterbox if Possible

When going on a road trip, it’s helpful to bring a familiar litterbox and litter from home if you can. Cats are very sensitive to scents, and asking your cat to use a different type of litter or litterbox may lead to accidents on the road or at your destination.

Bring Along Favorite Toys and Blankets

Just like you, your cat will appreciate having some of their favorite items from home when traveling. A favorite blanket or bed, familiar toys, and their own food and treats will make your trip more enjoyable and less stressful for both of you.

Additional Tips

Make sure to ask your veterinarian if your cat needs any vaccinations, bloodwork, or special documentation before you travel. This is especially important if you plan to travel outside of the United States. Requirements imposed by some foreign countries may require several months of advance planning, so do your research.

Whether traveling by car or airplane, take along proof of vaccinations and ask the airline or state/country of destination what other documentation is needed, such as a health certificate or certificate of veterinary inspection.

Always be sure your cat has identification in case you get separated. Having your cat microchipped and wearing a collar with an ID tag with your contact information will aid in reuniting you if you become separated.

Remember that traveling with your cat can be quite enjoyable for both of you, with the right preparation.

Featured Image: iStock.com/humonia

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Dr. Grota decided at an early age that she wanted to be a veterinarian. A native of Indiana, she grew up in a home where animals were...

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About TravelOcat

TravelOcat Office No. 18-19 K, Hisar, 125001, India

Destinations covered by TravelOcat

Malaysia , Singapore , Delhi , Himachal Pradesh , Punjab

Services Offered by TravelOcat

Flights, Hotels, Car Rental, Bus/Train, Cruise, Sightseeing Tour, Travel Insurance, Visa, Private Jet

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Share your experience & help other travellers like you

Reviews for TravelOcat

siddharth kumar ()

(Written on 13 Mar, 2024)

Bipin Singh Yadav ()

HIMACHAL TRIP

(Written on 11 Mar, 2024)

challa vinay manikanta reddy ()

Krishna Pradeep ()

(Written on 10 Mar, 2024)

Pooja 1001 ()

90 People 14 Days tour with TravelOcat

(Written on 09 Mar, 2024)

Himachal honeymoon trip

(Written on 03 Mar, 2024)

Aesha (Mumbai, India)

Trip to Kullu, Manali

Trip to manali

(Written on 05 Jan, 2024)

JASHESH CHONKER (Surat, India)

Manali trip

(Written on 31 Dec, 2023)

Rohit Lama (Panipat, India)

Dubai Travel

(Written on 22 Nov, 2023)

Jayant Kumar (Kurukshetra, India)

(Written on 20 Sep, 2023)

Jaychand Jain (Ahmedabad, India)

Bad Experience

(20 Sep, 2023)

Dear Jaychand Thank you for sharing your feedback with us. We take guest comments seriously as they help us improve our services. However, after conducting a thorough check, we could not find any booking under your name in our records. We apologize for any inconvenience you may have experienced regarding the cashback and any other issues you mentioned. To assist you further, could you please provide us with your booking ID or the email address associated with your reservation? With this information, we will be able to investigate the matter more effectively and address any concerns you may have. At TravelOcat we are committed to providing the best service to all our guests, and your satisfaction is our top priority. We appreciate your cooperation in resolving this matter and ensuring that your future stays with us are more enjoyable. Thank you for considering TravelOcat and we look forward to assisting you further. Sincerely, Manoj Bhaskar Operation Head

Deeksha Mishra (India)

(Written on 30 Jul, 2023)

Kamal Nokhwal (Panipat, India)

(Written on 18 Jul, 2023)

Sonia Sehrawat (Yamunanagar, India)

(Written on 16 Jul, 2023)

Rishabh Rawat (Lucknow, India)

(Written on 12 Jul, 2023)

Vivek (Delhi, India)

Great Service!!

(Written on 10 Jul, 2023)

Shamantha Kumar (Bengaluru, India)

Very nice company and package price is the best price compared to other travel agencies,and they make hotel ,vehicle and sight seeing in very excellant way

(Written on 09 Jul, 2023)

Mayank Gupta (Delhi, India)

(Written on 08 Jul, 2023)

Poornima Saravanan (Chennai, India)

Trip to Manali, Shimla

(Written on 30 Jun, 2023)

Shubham Lokhande (Nashik, India)

(Written on 29 Jun, 2023)

Charvi Kakkar (Hisar, India)

(Written on 25 Jun, 2023)

Andita Singh (Lucknow, India)

Sunita Soni (Panipat, India)

Travel o cat

S P (Lucknow, India)

Aastha 17 (Bhopal, India)

Enjoyable experience.

(Written on 23 Jun, 2023)

Anshu Sharma (Puranpur, India)

Best service

Rajan Arora (Yamunanagar, India)

Bali and Singapore package

(Written on 17 Jun, 2023)

Aditya Rana (Karnal, India)

Manali kasol package

(Written on 13 Jun, 2023)

Arjun Thakur (Ludhiana, India)

Wonderful trip to Kerala

(Written on 10 Jun, 2023)

Kiran Bora (Shimla, India)

JOGENDER BADSAR (India)

Himachal Package

Naruto Xander (Hisar, India)

Lubna (Mumbai, India)

Scam running company

(11 Jun, 2023)

Dear Lubna, Thank you for sharing your feedback regarding your recent experience with Travelocat. We deeply apologize for the inconveniences and frustrations you encountered during your Kerala tour. We understand your disappointment and frustration with the discrepancies between the promised itinerary and the actual services provided. At Travelocat, we strive to provide exceptional customer service and ensure that our guests have a memorable and enjoyable travel experience. It is disheartening to hear that we fell short of meeting your expectations and that our services did not live up to the promises made. We take your feedback seriously, and we will investigate the issues you raised regarding the sightseeing arrangements, advance ticket reservations, and the quality of the hotels and rooms. Rest assured, appropriate action will be taken to address these concerns and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. We value your feedback as it helps us identify areas for improvement and make necessary changes to enhance our services. We understand that your experience has left you dissatisfied, and we would like to make it right. We would appreciate the opportunity to discuss your concerns further and find a resolution that meets your satisfaction. Please contact our customer service department at your earliest convenience, and we will work diligently to address your specific issues. Once again, we apologize for the negative experience you had with TravelOcat. We hope you will reconsider giving us another chance in the future, as we are committed to providing a better and improved travel experience for our valued customers. Sincerely, Manoj Bhaskar

6-7c-Priyanka Bisht (Dehradun, India)

(Written on 01 Jun, 2023)

Priyuh (Rohtak, India)

Manikandan (Mumbai, India)

Good service by TravelOcat

(Written on 31 May, 2023)

Nihatha Marunga (Ludhiana, India)

Mandar Pandit (Pune, India)

(Written on 29 May, 2023)

Shekhar Sunar (New York, USA)

Wonderful trip to manali

(Written on 24 May, 2023)

Srinivas Reddy (Hyderabad, India)

They didn't provided what they committed

(Written on 21 May, 2023)

(28 May, 2023)

Dear Reddy Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback with us. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused during your recent visit. We understand that the vehicle provided, an Ertiga, was not suitable for your group of six adults and two kids. We apologize for the oversight in not being able to provide the Innova vehicle as promised. We deeply regret any discomfort or inconvenience this may have caused you. Regarding the offer of a candlelight dinner, we apologize for the confusion. Candle Light dinner was supposed to be arranged in Manali Hotel & Somehow Hotel team missed it from their end. Our team should have provided clearer communication about the hotel Where it was supposed to be arranged, and we understand how disappointing it must have been for you when the offer was denied. We apologise for the misunderstanding and any frustration it may have caused. We genuinely value our customers, and it is disheartening to hear that you felt disrespected during your experience. We strive to provide the highest level of customer service, and we apologize if we fell short of your expectations in this regard. We will review your comments with our team to ensure that we improve our approach and provide better service in the future. Once again, we apologize for any inconveniences caused and appreciate your honest feedback. We hope that you will give us another opportunity to serve you and provide you with a more enjoyable experience. If you have any further concerns or would like to discuss your experience in more detail, please feel free to reach out to us directly. Your satisfaction is important to us, and we would like to address any remaining issues to the best of our abilities.Thank you for your understanding. Kind regards, Manoj Bhaskar Operation Manager

Mehak Thapa (Delhi, India)

Himachal package

(Written on 14 May, 2023)

Rajesh Pai (Bengaluru, India)

Great arrangements!!

(Written on 09 May, 2023)

Haider (Hyderabad, India)

Excellent service

(Written on 05 May, 2023)

Sukhbir Panghal (Delhi, India)

Best travel agency

(Written on 17 Apr, 2023)

Monu Sharma (India)

Singapore tour

(Written on 01 Mar, 2023)

Ashok Bhardwaj (India)

aboard trip

(Written on 26 Jan, 2023)

Shwetha Holla (Bengaluru, India)

Trip to Kasol, Manali

Blr - Shimla - Manali Trip - excellent arrangements from TravelOcat

(Written on 20 Jan, 2023)

RAHUL KUMAR (India)

Maldives holiday with TravelOcat

(Written on 19 Jan, 2023)

Ruturaj Mund (Balasore, India)

Manali kullu shimla trip

(Written on 27 Dec, 2022)

(28 Dec, 2022)

Dear Ruturaj, Thank you for taking the time to write your review on Tripcrafters We have taken into account your feedback and we do apologize for the service that you experienced. Strict action has been taken against driver & we have blacklisted him for our future operations. While we realize that we cannot undo the experience that you had during your visit, we do hope that you will allow us another opportunity to restore your confidence service. Kind regards, Vijay Thakur Transport Manager

Rajak Geetha Gayathri (India)

Trip to Bali

Trip to bali

(Written on 27 Oct, 2022)

Nisar (India)

Best trip planners

(Written on 16 Sep, 2022)

Suja Harrison (India)

(Written on 11 Sep, 2022)

Baldev Moond (India)

Trip to dubai with travelocat

Pavan Dhawale (India)

Travel to Manali

(Written on 05 Sep, 2022)

NAVEEN BHAKAR (India)

trip to Maldives with travelocat

(Written on 20 Aug, 2022)

Sudhir Bhaskar (India)

Trip to himachal with travelocat.

(Written on 18 Aug, 2022)

Yeswanth Reddy (Hyderabad, India)

(Written on 16 Aug, 2022)

Sandeep Dhaka (India)

Trip to ladakh with Travelocat

(Written on 10 Aug, 2022)

Akash Sihag (India)

Trip to Nepal with travelocat.

(Written on 06 Aug, 2022)

Subham Paliwal (India)

Trip to himachal with Travelocat

(Written on 03 Aug, 2022)

Praveen Meel (India)

Honeymoon Vacation to Maldives

(Written on 02 Aug, 2022)

DURAISWAMY RK (India)

EXCELLENT SERVICE AND TAKEN CARE

(Written on 01 Aug, 2022)

Rahul Sheshama (India)

Memorable Dubai Trip

(Written on 24 Jul, 2022)

Rohit Gupta (India)

Better than make my trip

(Written on 21 Jul, 2022)

Ashok Burdak (India)

Bali with TravelOcat & PACTO

(Written on 12 Jul, 2022)

Shekhar Deshwal (New Zealand)

Good service

Nitin Bagaria (India)

Our Himachal Trip with TravelOcat

(Written on 09 Jul, 2022)

Ram Kalwaniyan (India)

Stay at Mafushi island booked with TravelOcat

Bhanu Gosala (India)

Trip to shimla-kasol-kullu-Manali

(Written on 08 Jul, 2022)

Rajendra Choudhary (India)

Very bad experience

(Written on 07 Jul, 2022)

सुनील चौधरी (India)

Our First trip with TravelOcat

(Written on 05 Jul, 2022)

Ravindra Lande (India)

Shimla - Manali Tour

(Written on 04 Jul, 2022)

Chaitanya (India)

Trip to Manali,Delhi and agra

Ragupathi J (India)

Trip to Kullu, Manali and Agra

(Written on 03 Jul, 2022)

Anil Kumar (India)

Trip to Bali & Thailand

(Written on 02 Jul, 2022)

Bulsara (Pune, India)

Trip to Dalhousie, Dharamsala, Manali, Shimla

Never travelling with TravelOcat again

(Written on 30 Jun, 2022)

(04 Jul, 2022)

Dear Bulsara, Thank you for taking the time to write your review on Tripcrafters We have taken into account your feedback and we do apologize for the service that you experienced. While we realize that we cannot undo the experience that you had during your visit, we do hope that you will allow us another opportunity to restore your confidence service. Kind regards, Manoj Bhaskar Operation Manager

Gaurav Budania (India)

Super quality service.... Memorable moments

(Written on 24 Jun, 2022)

Sarita Garhwal (Jaipur, India)

honeymoon in Tanzania

(Written on 22 Jun, 2022)

Shimla-manali trip

Manisha Nehra (India)

Family trip

(Written on 21 Jun, 2022)

Anjali Choudhary (India)

Trip to kerela

Athreya (Mumbai, India)

The trip handling from travelOCat was very bad

(Written on 20 Jun, 2022)

(21 Jun, 2022)

Dear Athreya, Thank you for taking the time to write your review on Tripcrafters We have taken into account your feedback and we do apologize for the service that you experienced. While we realize that we cannot undo the experience that you had during your visit, we do hope that you will allow us another opportunity to restore your confidence service. Kind regards, Manoj Bhaskar Operation Manager

Lal (India)

Trip to Manali

(Written on 15 Jun, 2022)

Doss (India)

Trip to Amritsar, Manali, Shimla

May 4 th to 9th Shimla Manali trip

Ajay Yadav (India)

Trip to Kasol, Kullu, Manali

Happy to have business with you

(Written on 07 Jun, 2022)

Anchit Arnav (India)

Usual hiccups but Overall a good trip

Rishitha Reddy (India)

Trip to Manali, Kullu, Shimla went very smooth

(Written on 03 Jun, 2022)

Sandeep Soni (Germany)

Trip to Singapore

(Written on 26 May, 2022)

Niranjan (India)

Trip to Kullu, Manali, Shimla

Good experience

Pardeep Yadav (India)

First trip with travelocat

(Written on 25 May, 2022)

Prasanna (Bengaluru, India)

Not planned well

(Written on 24 May, 2022)

(25 May, 2022)

Dear Client,   Thank you for taking the time to write your review on Tripcrafters for TravelOcat Services. As per the final confirmation mail, you were supposed to pay dues at the time of check in at Manali Hotel. When the hotelier asked for the dues, you told that you have already paid the full amount to the travel agency & check in was allowed. When our account team and seller called you for the payment you just started ignoring our calls. Almost 17 calls were made in 3 days. Collecting payment is seller’s job sir.  We always request our client to follow our payment policy strictly for a pleasant travel experience. Still I want to extend my sincerest apologies for the negative experience that you had with us. At TravelOcat Services, we pride ourselves on giving our 100% every day to ensure that our customers’ needs are being met.

Amit (India)

Trip to bali arranged by shruti

(Written on 29 Apr, 2022)

Sudhir (Bengaluru, India)

Good travel agency for ur all trips

(Written on 26 Apr, 2022)

Ravi Teja (Visakhapatnam, India)

Hotels was good

(Written on 25 Apr, 2022)

Zealotz Dhanush (India)

S.DHANUSH REVIEW

Pintu Shaw (Kolkata, India)

Trip to Dalhousie, Dharamsala, Manali

Very Bad experience

(Written on 24 Apr, 2022)

Uma Venkatakrishnan (India)

(Written on 06 Apr, 2022)

Suresh (Bengaluru, India)

Excellent trip planning and hotel arrangements. Driver selection needs more attention

(Written on 27 Mar, 2022)

Arijit Roy Chowdhury (Kolkata, India)

Trip to Dalhousie, Manali, Mcleod Ganj, Shimla

9 days splendid himachal

(Written on 20 Mar, 2022)

SUBHOJIT GHOSH (India)

Trip to Kalpa, Kinnaur Valley, Manali, Sangla, Spiti

Wonderful Himachal Experience.

(Written on 09 Mar, 2022)

Urmila Agarwal (India)

Manali-kasol-Shimla Trip

Shruti Shamkuwar (India)

Memorable Trip to Delhi-Kasol-Kullu-Manali

(Written on 27 Feb, 2022)

Krishna (Mumbai, India)

Kullu, Manali,Jana Water falls.

Rohit Singh (India)

Good trip to kullu Manali

(Written on 23 Feb, 2022)

SAI (India)

Trip to Kasol & Manali

Prashant Nangare (India)

Breathtaking experience of Manali with TRAVELOCAT

(Written on 22 Feb, 2022)

Praveen Hitnalli (India)

Memorable Trip to Shimla, Manali

(Written on 20 Feb, 2022)

Garvit Gogia (Mumbai, India)

Manali Trip

(Written on 13 Feb, 2022)

MASOOD SHAIK (India)

Trip to shimla,Manali,dharamshala and amritsar

(Written on 05 Feb, 2022)

Vaibhav Bhabad (India)

Trip @Shimla & Manali

(Written on 03 Feb, 2022)

Akshay Sk (India)

(Written on 01 Feb, 2022)

Madhavi Thiyanesh (India)

Best travel agency for hassle free trips/tours

(Written on 31 Jan, 2022)

Rupesh Sawarkar (Nagpur, India)

Trip to Dalhousie, Dharamsala, Manali, Mcleod Ganj

Good agency...... little bit improve

(Written on 25 Jan, 2022)

Kuldeep Nehra (India)

(Written on 21 Jan, 2022)

Dinesh Jangra (India)

Sahasreddy Komatireddy (Hyderabad, India)

Kasol- manali

(Written on 20 Jan, 2022)

(21 Jan, 2022)

Dear Mr Sahasreddy Thank you for taking the time to write your review on Tripcrafters We have taken into account your feedback and we do apologize for the service that you experienced. While we realize that we cannot undo the experience that you had during your visit. A Voucher of INR2000 will be shared for your future booking in hope that you will allow us another opportunity to restore your confidence service. Kind regards, Manoj Bhaskar Operation Manager

Bharath Smart (India)

Trip to Kasol and Manali.

(Written on 13 Jan, 2022)

Sai TeJa (India)

A trip to Shimla, Manali, Kasol

(Written on 09 Jan, 2022)

Balaji (India)

Himachal tour with my family covering Shimla and Manali

(Written on 07 Jan, 2022)

Yatnesh (India)

Trip to Manali, Delhi

Shimla Kullu Manali good experience

(Written on 03 Jan, 2022)

Arjun Rajput (India)

Paradise booking with Travelocat

(Written on 31 Dec, 2021)

Sindhuja Patnaik (India)

Vizag to manali

Sai Chaitanya (India)

Trip to shimla-manali

(Written on 26 Dec, 2021)

Nb Jim (India)

Trip with travelocat

(Written on 22 Dec, 2021)

Anirudh (India)

Adventure Special Himachal Pradesh

(Written on 21 Dec, 2021)

Chintha Sri Harsha (India)

Trip from Hyderabad to manali

(Written on 20 Dec, 2021)

Rajesh Duhan (India)

Trip to dubai

Sonu Jangra (India)

Trip with TravelOcat

RAVI (India)

Resorts Booking

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Extremely satisfied ! Trip to Maldives

Shailendra Dubey (Dombivali, India)

Worst service from travelocat

(20 Dec, 2021)

Dear Mr Dubey, Thank you for taking the time to write your review on Tripcrafters We have taken into account your feedback and we do apologize for the service that you experienced. While we realize that we cannot undo the experience that you had during your visit, we do hope that you will allow us another opportunity to restore your confidence service. Kind regards, Manoj Bhaskar Operation Manager

Swådü Bãlák (India)

(Written on 15 Dec, 2021)

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Excellent Service

(Written on 09 Dec, 2021)

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(Written on 25 Nov, 2021)

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Hyd to manali trip

(Written on 19 Nov, 2021)

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Shimla, Kulu & Manali Trip ( My rating 4.5/5 )

(Written on 14 Nov, 2021)

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Trip to Shimla-Manali

(Written on 12 Nov, 2021)

G K (India)

A Great travel experience

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Amazing Experience

(Written on 09 Nov, 2021)

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Travel ocat service

(Written on 07 Nov, 2021)

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Amazing service and assistance by Dev Suthar

(Written on 28 Oct, 2021)

Sohan Ram (India)

Amazing and quick service.

(Written on 25 Oct, 2021)

Nikhil Bansal (India)

(Written on 22 Oct, 2021)

Kiran Thapa (Sainthia, India)

Mohit Yadav (India)

Last month I travelled, New Delhi to Calgary via indirect route.

(Written on 19 Oct, 2021)

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Best agency in India

(Written on 16 Oct, 2021)

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Trip to Maldives

Maldives honeymoon vacation -Best experience with TravelOcat !!!

(Written on 21 Sep, 2021)

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Amazing team

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Trip to Dalhousie, Dharamsala

Excellent service. Perfect planning

(Written on 06 Sep, 2021)

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Excellent holiday

(Written on 16 Aug, 2021)

Naseeb Parkhi (India)

(Written on 11 Aug, 2021)

Vipul (Bhopal, India)

Excellent services by travelocat

(Written on 22 Apr, 2021)

VARUN (Visakhapatnam, India)

trip to manali

(Written on 19 Apr, 2021)

Dinesh (Visakhapatnam, India)

(Written on 18 Apr, 2021)

Laxmi Reddy (India)

(Written on 31 Mar, 2021)

Prasana (India)

Best service and comfortable trips

(Written on 16 Mar, 2021)

Sana (Hyderabad, India)

Trip from Delhi to Manali

(Written on 10 Mar, 2021)

Shiva Jash (India)

(Written on 05 Mar, 2021)

Sundeep (Hyderabad, India)

A trip from Delhi to Manali - Honeymoon

MEREENA MATHEW (India)

(Written on 03 Mar, 2021)

(03 Mar, 2021)

Dear Mathew, Thank you for taking the time to write your review on Tripcrafters We have taken into account your feedback and we do apologize for the service that you experienced. While we realize that we cannot undo the experience that you had during your visit, we do hope that you will allow us another opportunity to restore your confidence service. Kind regards, Manoj Bhaskar Operation Manager

Gopinath balaramann (India)

Kullu & Manali 2 nights trip

(Written on 23 Feb, 2021)

Dhanarjun (Bengaluru, India)

(Written on 21 Feb, 2021)

(22 Feb, 2021)

Dear Dhanarjun, Thank you for taking the time to write your review on Tripcrafters We have taken into account your feedback and we do apologize for the service that you experienced. While we realize that we cannot undo the experience that you had during your visit, we do hope that you will allow us another opportunity to restore your confidence service. Kind regards, Manoj Bhaskar Operation Manager

Meghana (India)

Shimla kullu manali

(Written on 20 Feb, 2021)

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Feedback - Not Satisfied

(Written on 11 Feb, 2021)

(11 Feb, 2021)

Dear Satya, Thank you for taking the time to write your review on Tripcrafters for TravelOcat Services 1. Booking was done on 7th of Jan 2021 for Swift Dezire or Etios. Only 2 days before your travel you requested seller Ankur to upgrade vehicle from Swift desire to MPV. On 26th Night seller clearly informed that we don’t have availability for Ertiga or Innova as all are vehicles were booked. On your repeated request we arranged a third party vehicle which we never recommend to our clients. 2. One day before your return from Manali, Mr Sharma Ji (Driver) requested to start early morning so that you can cover Kullu sightseeing (Were not included in itinerary) and reach Delhi on time in order to get a complete day in New Delhi. Driver arrived hotel Katoch Grand on time but you started at 10:30 AM. After covering all sightseeing in Kullu & Manali cab reached Delhi Hotel at 2 PM next day. Driver was continuously drove cab for almost 28 hours and he slept for 2 hours only after your approval. Also We do have recording where you confirmed the same thing to us as well. 3. Driver did not denied for additional sightseeing in Manali & Kullu and took extra miles for best experience. It was not good for our client safety to cover Delhi Locals in the same cab, We requested driver & you for some additional time in order to arrange alternate cab. But you forced same driver to take Delhi Locals without any rest. 4. Due the farmer protest on 26th Jan 2021 all borders with New Delhi were closed. As per TravelOcat policy, which we always share before booking TravelOcat is not responsible for missing sightseeing, destinations due to political strikes or road block, Monuments, parks, rides etc to be closed without prior notice. Protest on republic day was beyond our control and it was not well informed to us at the time of booking. In order for your safety in Delhi we provided 01 Night stay in Delhi at our own cost. Also you were continuously forcing us to send a cab at hotel on 26th jan 21 since morning. Situation in Delhi Was very critical. Various articles can be found on web. 5. We request you to kindly read above statements once again. 6. After your approval only we send driver back to his home (recording can be shared if required). Also we have reimburse cab bill of INR910 on 8th of feb 21 using google pay. Still I want to extend my sincerest apologies for the negative experience that you had with us. At TravelOcat Services, we pride ourselves on giving our 100% every day to ensure that our customers’ needs are being met. Thank & Regards Manoj Bhaskar (Operation Head)

Ravi Raj (India)

(Written on 27 Jan, 2021)

Jawad Ahmed (India)

Trip to Shimla Manali

Phani (India)

(27 Jan, 2021)

Dear Phani, Thank you for taking the time to write your review on Tripcrafters for TravelOcat Services We have looked into details of your expectation mismatch and we have improved the processes since then. Usually the Journey from Delhi to Manali will take 13 to 14 hour and may vary as per weather condition on that day. Weather conditions are beyond our control. Also, we have passed remarks to all our drivers that they can’t take any break without client’s permission. Sincere aplogy from our transport tean & We will make sure that if you plan your next holiday with us we give you a special discount and make up for your bad experience on this trip. Kind regards, Manoj Bhaskar Operation Manager

Saurabh (Trivandrum, India)

Very bad experience with TravelOcoat

(Written on 10 Jan, 2021)

(25 Jan, 2021)

Dear Saurabh, Thank you for taking the time to write your review on Tripcrafters We have taken into account your feedback and we do apologize for the service that you experienced. While we realize that we cannot undo the experience that you had during your visit, we do hope that you will allow us another opportunity to restore your confidence service. Kind regards, Manoj Bhaskar Operation Manager

Mohankumar (Coimbatore, India)

(Written on 03 Jan, 2021)

Swetha (Hyderabad, India)

Trip to Darjeeling, Dharamsala, Manali, Shimla

Awesome & Cheerful :)

(Written on 22 Dec, 2020)

Aravamudhan (Chennai, India)

Trip to Manali, Shimla, Delhi

Honeymoon Tour

(Written on 18 Dec, 2020)

Aparna Bolla (Hyderabad, India)

(Written on 13 Dec, 2020)

Kamal Raj J (Bengaluru, India)

Travel to Maldives assisted by TravelOcat

(Written on 10 Dec, 2020)

Srinivasa Nyayapathi (India)

Bali, the beautiful destination arranged by TravelOcat (Courtesy: Dev Suthar)

(Written on 22 Jan, 2020)

(23 Jan, 2020)

Dear Mr Srinivasa Rao Nyayapathi, We are sorry and apologies again for the inconvenience caused at Bali Airport. Post your call from Bali, we immediately talked to our Bali Supplier and were trying to contact you again and again. Unfortunately, your contact number was not reachable. Around 4 PM, we spoke to the hotel and they confirmed that client had arrived and call was transferred to your daughter in room. At TravelOcat Services, we pride ourselves on giving our 100% every day to ensure that our customers’ needs are being met. We are please to confirm refund of IDR100000. Look forward to making your future vacations even more memorable with us!! Manoj Bhaskar Operation Manager

Sandeep (Hyderabad, India)

No coupon received

(Written on 17 Nov, 2019)

Narasimha Adusumalli (India)

Great Experience in Bali !!

(Written on 24 Sep, 2019)

Noorulla (Bengaluru, India)

Not satisfied with the arrangements made at Singapore

(Written on 25 Jul, 2019)

(25 Jul, 2019)

Dear Customer, I want to extend my sincerest apologies for the negative experience that you had with us. At TravelOcat Services, we pride ourselves on giving our 100% every day to ensure that our customers’ needs are being met. In Regards to your booking for Singapore package on 27th of June 2019 and the travel date was 13th of July 2019. As per our payment policy a complete payment was to be required 30 days before your departure (Informed verbally and via mail also). Due to delay in payment hotel Village Hotel Albert Court’s promo rates were sold out and we upgraded your hotel (PARKROYAL on Kitchener Road). Our clients who are seeing these reviews can compare both the hotel and prices. We have paid additional amount to the hotel as you were not ready to bear a single penny. The visa was going to delayed day by day so we took loss part and hotel voucher was shared with our visa team. On 16th of July post your return seller spoke to you while I was in conference, & you were very happy about our services part (Expect day 1 pickup). Also on day first driver arrived at the airport at 8 AM and waited for almost 3 hours. Pictures been already shared with you and your son. Also as per the seller a voucher of INR 2000 would be shared post your return for future booking. Thank & Regards Manoj Bhaskar (Operation Head)

Ruksar (India)

Very well planned singapore trip in a short span of time

(Written on 04 May, 2019)

Satbeer Singh (Ludhiana, India)

(Written on 14 Apr, 2019)

Shabbir (Pune, India)

(Written on 09 Apr, 2019)

Pawan Kajla (India)

Superb Trip

(Written on 28 Dec, 2018)

Sagar (Bengaluru, India)

(Written on 16 Dec, 2018)

SPORTSTAR BIOGRAPHY (New Delhi, India)

Maldives Trip

(Written on 11 Dec, 2018)

Santhosh V (Mumbai, India)

Trip to Thailand

(Written on 28 Nov, 2018)

Chetna Oswal (India)

Vry rude approach

(Written on 21 Nov, 2018)

(22 Nov, 2018)

We are saddened to hear that your experience with TravelOcat. As per our policy our sales team not allowed to share more than 3 packages. We had received your query almost 01 month back. Mr Dev was working on your query since a month. Almost more than 20 options were shared to you. As per our system’s latest update your query been already closed. You can post a new query at [email protected] . Also we request not to post any fake reviews without taking our services

Renu Ameria (India)

Dubai trip with TravelOcat

(Written on 07 Nov, 2018)

Rajendra Mahajan (India)

Trip to Mauritius

Great experience for 8 days tour to Mauritius

(Written on 30 Sep, 2018)

(01 Oct, 2018)

Dear Mr Mahajan, Thank you very much for your valuable feedback. Look forward to making your future vacations even more memorable with us!!

Sundar VISWANATHAN (Chennai, India)

never ever book

(Written on 08 Jun, 2018)

(08 Jun, 2018)

Dear Viswanathan, Thank you for taking the time to write your review on Tripcrafter We have taken into account your feedback and we do apologize for the service that you experienced. While we realize that we cannot undo the experience that you had during your visit, we do hope that you will allow us another opportunity to restore your confidence service. Kind regards, Manoj Bhaskar Operation Manager

Khushboo Savla (Mumbai, India)

Trip to Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi

It was ok experience.....

(Written on 01 Jun, 2018)

(05 Jun, 2018)

Dear Ms Khushboo, Thank you very much for your feedback. We have already blacklisted the hotel. Also due to bad weather in Langkawi the site seen were changed.

Manoj Bhaskar (India)

(Written on 31 May, 2018)

(01 Jun, 2018)

Dear Mr Manoj, Thank you very much for your valuable feedback.

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Car Travel With Cats — Road Trips & Moving

Author: Dr. Jason Nicholas

Published: August 4, 2018

Updated: November 9, 2023

Our mission is to help save dogs' and cats’ lives through our educational content. To support our efforts, this page may contain affiliate links . We earn a commission for qualifying purchases – at no cost to you.

But believe it or not, if a cat is properly acclimated and conditioned to riding in a car, they will actually learn to really love it. And you will too!

During the summer months and around the holidays, many of us plan or go on family vacations, and more commonly, families are including their furry feline. The summer is also a busy time for people buying and selling homes, which sometimes means a long-distance move.

Hopefully, your cat is young or has not had a traumatic experience in the car, making your upcoming road trip more viable. Don’t despair if this is not the case; even “more mature cats” can be taught new car riding tricks.

Getting your cat ready for a road trip

Step 1: get your kitty to love their carrier..

After all, unrestrained cats can be a distraction, interfering with your ability to steer or brake, and even become a dangerous projectile in the event of a crash or sudden stop. Like in this case of a cat loose in the car, distracting the driver and causing three accidents! In order to make restraint stress-less for your kitty and yourself, spend some time training your cat to love their carrier before the big travel day arrives.

Don't have a carrier for your cat yet? See further below for our recommendations, including carriers that are crash test certified.

Step 2: Get your cat to love the car.

Now that your kitty loves their carrier, it’s time to get them loving the car, too! Here are some steps to help you do that. Pro Tip: This car acclimation step is best done with two people … one to drive the car, the other to pet, praise, and treat kitty! That said, it can be done with one person, too, but very carefully.

• Take kitty out to the car, in their carrier.
• With the car parked and the doors and windows closed, sit in the back seat with your cat in their carrier. Partially open one of the carrier doors to get your hand in to play with your cat, pet them, praise them, and give them treats. (Caution: For your own safety and that of your cat, avoid doing this type of in-car training when the weather is too hot or too cold.)
• Once kitty seems settled in and happy in their carrier in the car, place an interactive, treat/kibble-dispensing toy in their carrier with them (the Egg-Cersizer and the SlimCat are great choices ).

• Caution: If your car is parked in your garage while you’re doing this acclimation for your cat, either ensure that your garage door is open or move your car out of the garage and onto the street or driveway. Carbon monoxide is very dangerous for both of you!
• Once your cat is comfortable with the sound and vibration of the engine, it’s time to take some short trips. You don’t want to overdo it here — just go down the street initially, then progress to a block or two, and then gradually extend the distance of the drives. Also, if you frequently drive with your windows open, try some of these "test" drives with the windows down for a bit to see if the sound of the air passing by and the changing air pressures are OK for kitty. Never push these drives further than your cat is comfortable with. Also, be sure to drive calmly and go easy on the gas pedal and brakes. Note: This step will be best with more than one person in the car so that someone can continue to monitor, soothe, and play with kitty while the other person does the driving and focuses on the road.
• Continue to do these steps each day or every few days, and kitty will soon be more than happy to join for car rides! Note: Since each cat and each situation are different, it could take anywhere from a few days of this type of training to several months for an individual cat to love car travel.

Questions? If you would like to chat with a veterinarian about traveling with your cat, Click here

Don't have a carrier for your kitty yet?

Still using the cardboard carrier your cat came home from the shelter in? Here are some of my favorite cat carriers for car travel.

Carriers for around town and shorter trips

These can also be used for longer trips with a leash-trained cat , as you won't need the extra space of the ones linked further below to put a litter box in the carrier with them. It's best to choose a carrier that has an opening at the top, as this often makes it easier and less stressful for everybody when getting them in and out when traveling or visiting the vet. The options linked below all have easy "top access."

Sleepypod carriers: The Mobile Pet Bed (this mobile pet bed may not work for flying on all airlines) and the Air In-Cabin Carrier are truly exceptional and beautifully crafted carriers, and Sleepypod takes pet travel safety very seriously . They do their own crash testing (at the standard set for child safety restraints) on their products and also received excellent marks in the Center for Pet Safety's crash testing studies. They're a bit pricier, but if you can swing it, they're well worth the money!

Available at:

Sherpa carrier : Another good choice with a long track record of being an excellent and versatile cat carrier, both in the car and when flying.

Amazon Basics two-door, top-load pet kennel : This is a hard-sided carrier that has easy open/close latches (rather than nuts and bolts) to secure top to bottom, as well as a top access door.

Take note that if you want to use your carrier for flying, make sure the size of your hard carrier fits in your airline's under-seat regulations, as the hard carriers aren't as "flexible" as the soft-sided ones when going under the seat.

Cat carriers for longer road trips

Siivton 4-sided carrier : This carrier has expandable sides making this soft-sided carrier a little more spacious for your kitty than a traditional carrier. It doesn't really have enough room for you to include a litter box for your kitty within the carrier so something to consider.

It is an "extra space" option though for car travel that also has an "airline approved" claim, unlike the portable cage (above).

• Don’t feel like doing it DIY, or don’t have the time? Get an awesome pre-fab kitty condo instead! We know of a veterinarian who used one on a cross-country move and their cats loved it. Note: While these kitty condo options will likely help make travel less stressful and more comfortable for your kitty, they do introduce some new safety risks for them (falling from higher shelves or having shelves fall on them in the event of an accident or sudden stop) and perhaps even for you, depending on how/if you secure it within your vehicle. Please take these cautions into consideration should you select one of these kitty condo options. In order to make restraint stress-less for your kitty and yourself, spend some time training your cat to love their carrier before the big travel day arrives.

Car ride logistics with cats — where to go 'potty'

Jumping right down to “business,” … depending on the duration of your travel adventures with kitty and where you’re winding up, you’re going to have to deal with potty planning and bathroom breaks. This is the case both when you’re on the road and when you get to your hotel or wherever your destination is. You can help your cat take care of business on the road in a few different ways.

First, get them a good travel litter box, a litter they like, and (perhaps) even a litter attractant, and then get them used to using this set-up before you ever even need to use the car.

A good travel litter box will be large enough for your cat to fit in and comfortably do their business in, yet small enough to fit in their carrier (see recommended larger car cat carriers above).

If your trip isn’t too far and their carrier isn’t large enough to fit a litter box, your travel litter box for use in the hotel can be a bit larger. The travel litter box should also be waterproof, easy to clean, and collapsible (for easier storage), yet sturdy enough so as to not collapse on kitty when they’re doing their thing in it. There are also disposable litter box options available!

Recommended litter boxes for travel with cats

There are collapsible options ( Necoichi and PetIsFam ) or disposable ones ( Nature's Miracle or Kitty Sifter ). Given that you and your cat’s litter box will be in fairly close quarters, it’s a good idea to go with a litter that’s got good odor control and low dust potential.

While it might be tempting to get a fragranced litter, recognize that the fragrance could actually irritate your cat’s nose and lungs, stressing them out and making it less likely that they’ll actually use their litter box! Below are some recommended cat litters, as well as a recommended cat litter attractant, which sometimes is needed to help a cat remember to use their box, especially in a time of change, like travel.

Recommended litters for travel with cats

All of these litters are considered low-dust, are easily scoopable, and all have excellent absorbency and odor control. The first two ( Boxiecat and Dr. Elsey’s ) are clay-based, the third ( World’s Best ) is corn-based, in case your cat (or you) don’t like clay litter. I’m also including the recommended cat litter attractant in the list, as well as a scoop and items for used litter containment, as those will be important, too. The antimicrobial scoop and caddy is helpful when traveling, so the scoop isn’t laying on your car interior itself!

And depending on the size of your car, how much space you’ve got available, how long your trip is, and how averse you are to having any smell or chance of spillage, you may want to consider the excellent Litter Genie used cat litter storage system. Note: This Litter Genie also comes with the bags, as well as a litter scoop and holder! If you want something smaller than the Litter Genie, you can do the simple, sealable bucket (don't forget the lid !) and some tall kitchen garbage bags.

Is your cat used to doing their business outside , or you really don’t want the smell of cat litter and the stuff that winds up in it in your car, or there’s just no room for a litter box in your cat’s carrier? Then, depending on the length of your car trip, you’ll have to make proper bathroom stops for your cat. This is most safely done, though, if you take the time to leash-train your cat well in advance of your travel day! Don’t worry it can be done! Here’s our article on how to leash-train a cat . And another important precaution for cats that you’ll be leash walking and just traveling with in general … have them microchipped at your vet, and ensure that your contact information associated with the microchip is up-to-date !

Recommended leashes and harnesses for leash-walking cats:

Also works well for cats.

Speaking about “doing business,” … what about if YOU have to go? What should you do with your cat?

If the temperatures aren’t too hot or too cold to have to worry about leaving your cat in the car, just leave them in their carrier and go about your business. Just try not to take too long. It's usually safe between about 40–65 degrees F (4–18 degrees C), though every cat and every situation will be different, so use this as a rough guide.

Talk to your vet about more specific safe temperature ranges for your cat based on your cat's age, breed (smushed face?), and any chronic medical conditions they may have or medications they may be on. If the temperatures are outside of that range, though, you’re going to have to take some precautions when making your own pit stops (and this includes for meals). In many cases, it’ll be possible for you to bring your cat into the bathroom with you in their carrier! This is the easiest solution if it’s possible and practical.

If it’s over the high end of the temperature range and you can’t bring kitty in with you, take some steps to ensure their comfort and safety when in the car:

• Do your bathroom break at a place where you don’t have to go into a big shop or mall to find and use the bathroom. Gas stations and rest stops along the side of the road are usually good options. Coffee shops often are, too!
• If you have an extra set of car keys with you, leave the car on and the air conditioner running and lock the doors behind you. You’ll be happier to get back into a cool car, too! Caution: This can help a lot, but be aware that car engines and air conditioner compressors can and do fail, leading to excessively hot temperatures building up in the car quickly.
• If leaving the car and A/C running isn’t possible or practical, pre-cool the car the best you can by running the air conditioner on high for several minutes before you get out.
• Park in the most well-shaded spot you can find.
• Park with your front windshield facing the sun and put up a reflective windshield sun shade like this one .
• Cracking the windows doesn’t make a huge difference, but it also doesn’t hurt (so long as your cat is securely in their carrier and there’s no danger of someone reaching in your car and stealing your stuff).
• Make sure kitty has plenty of water.
• Move their carrier from on the back seat to the floor in front of the back seat. Since hot air rises, it should be cooler on the floor.
• Be as quick with your stop as possible. If it’s a food break you’re taking, come back and check on your cat frequently (like every 10 minutes or so, just to be safe).

If it’s under the low end of the temperature range and you can’t bring kitty in with you, take some steps to ensure their comfort and safety when in the car:

• If you have an extra set of car keys with you, leave the car on and the heater running and lock the doors behind you. You’ll be happier to get back into a warm car, too! Caution: This can help a lot, but be aware that car engines and heater compressors can and do fail, leading to cold temperatures building up in the car quickly.
• If leaving the car and heater running isn’t possible or practical, pre-warm the car by turning up the heater to high (if it isn’t already) for several minutes before you get out.
• Add a nice cozy blanket or fleece to your cat’s carrier for them to snuggle up and be warm with. Pro Tip: If it’s a fleece or blanket that has your scent on it, all the better. Your cat will love “having you near” while you’re gone.
• Move their carrier to a sunny spot within the car, if there is one.

Where to stay when traveling with your cat

Road trips and long-distance moves with cats will often require hotel stays for sleeping and resting up (oh, and showering!). But not all hotels or motels are pet-friendly, and even those that are may only have a few pet-friendly rooms. So, here are some tips for finding pet-friendly places to stay when you’re on the road with kitty.

• If you know your route and plans, try to book pet-friendly accommodations early before they book up. This is especially important in the busy summer travel season and around the holidays.
• Some of the bigger hotel and motel chains are generally very pet-friendly. For instance, check out Red Roof Inns, Kimpton hotels, La Quinta, Best Western, and others. The folks at GoPetFriendly.com have a searchable state-by-state database to help you find pet-friendly accommodations.
• Some Airbnb properties are also pet-friendly!

Pro Tip: “Pet-friendly” means that your pets aren’t likely to have been the only pets staying in your room recently! And since not everyone uses flea and other parasite protection on their cats and dogs as regularly as they should… well, you (hopefully) get the picture. For your cat’s sake — and yours — make sure your cat is protected from fleas and other parasite infestation before heading out on the road! Learn more about safe and effective parasite prevention for your cat , and talk to your veterinarian.

Dealing with travel anxiety and carsickness with your cat

Ah, the best-laid plans... It’s possible that even if you take all of the precautions and steps outlined above to condition your cat to car travel they may still be stressed or even experience carsickness in spite of your best efforts. Here are some tips and products to help minimize those possibilities and to help deal with these problems should they arise.

• Composure calming treats for cats : These are great and can be used both before and during travel.
• Thundershirt for cats : Some anxious cats respond really well to the compressive and comforting nature of these anti-anxiety jackets. You'll want to test it out on your cat well in advance of your departure date and even do some of your "test drives" with them wearing their new jacket.
• Feliway pheromone spray : A couple of sprays of this calming pheromone on the towel or mat in your cat's carrier could be just what they need to feel less stressed and more comfortable with travel. Note that with pheromones, a little goes a long way. Don't overdo it — more is not better.
• Catnip spray to spritz their toys and catnip to sprinkle in their carrier , both can provide some great and distracting entertainment for your cat and a nice little "high" that could help reduce their anxiety.
• The likelihood of a cat getting carsick and vomiting can be reduced by not feeding them for a few hours prior to the car ride. Now, this won’t be super practical for a multi-day car trip — after all, kitty has got to eat at some point! But, if it’s just a one-day trip, this might help.
• Talk to your vet about the medication specifically designed to help prevent carsickness and vomiting in pets.
• Similarly, there are also medications your vet may be able to prescribe to help decrease your cat’s anxiety associated with car rides. But be sure to speak with your vet well in advance of your expected departure date, as your kitty may need a current exam, and doing trial or test doses is often necessary to determine what the best and most effective dose or combination will be for your cat.
• Some cats also benefit from and respond to calming music to help reduce their anxieties. And, who knows, it may just help make the drive more pleasant for you, too.

Emergencies on the road

Emergencies do happen, and so the occasion may arise where you’ll need to find a vet when you’re on the road. You can always Google “emergency veterinarian in __zipcode/town__” or use a vet emergency locator .

Questions? To chat with a veterinarian while on the road, Click here

First Aid on the Road

You'll also want to consider putting together a pet first-aid kit for your car. Here's a shopping list of first-aid essentials . Look for the icon of a little car 🚗 as it's these products that are the most essential in a smaller, travel-sized first-aid kit.

Special travel considerations for cats with chronic health issues and on medications

Before striking out on the road for a long trip or moving with a cat that’s got a chronic medical condition or is on long-term medications — like a cat with diabetes  or chronic kidney disease — there are a few steps and precautions you should take.

• Make sure your cat has had a recent (ideally within the past month or so) exam with your vet. You’ll have more peace-of-mind knowing that their condition is as well managed as possible and that they’re as healthy as can be before hitting the road with them. Your vet will also have recommendations for making their trip as comfortable and safe as possible.
• Bring a copy of your cat’s medical records with you! This should include recent exam notes, laboratory test results, and medication/supplement names and dosages. Your vet can often print these out (with enough notice), and they may even subscribe to an app or other service that allows you to keep updated copies of such records with you always on your phone. This will make visiting another vet on the road if you have to, much easier.
• Especially with cats with known chronic health concerns, it’s a good idea to know about a few vet hospitals along your route and in the area of your destination before you head out. See the vet locator tools and links listed in the section above to start searching.
• If your cat is on a special prescription diet, like for their kidneys, make sure to stock up on it from your vet before hitting the road. It’s not always easy to get prescription diet refills when you’re away from home and your vet’s office! You should take enough with you to last for the duration of your trip PLUS an additional (at least) 2 weeks.
• Similarly, be sure to stock up on your pet’s medications and supplements, as well as any supplies you need for them. This would include needles and a sharps container for safely disposing of and storing used needles for diabetic cats, pills for blood pressure, overactive thyroid, and any other chronic medications. Again, you should take with you enough to last for the duration of your trip PLUS an additional (at least) 2 weeks.
• Pro Tip: Depending on the type of insulin your cat is on, you may be able to get an insulin “pen” that may be more stable outside of the fridge and may be easier to administer to your cat on the road. Talk to your vet to see if an insulin pen is an option for your cat — it isn’t for all cats, but if it is for yours, it could be a great travel (and even long-term) solution for you.

We encourage you to leave a comment below if you’ve got any tricks, tips, or products you’ve used that made car travel with your cats easier. Best of luck on your travels or your move. Have fun and be safe! And be sure to come back and leave a comment to let us and our community know how your trip went.

About the author

Dr. Jason Nicholas

Dr. Nicholas graduated with honors from The Royal Veterinary College in London, England and completed his Internship at the Animal Medical Center in New York City. He currently lives in the Pacific Northwest.

Dr. Nicholas spent many years as an emergency and general practice veterinarian obsessed with keeping pets safe and healthy. He is the author of Preventive Vet’s 101 Essential Tips book series.

Related Articles

The Ultimate Cat Travel Destination Guide

By: Author The Fluffy Kitty

Posted on Last updated: March 25, 2022

Categories Cat Travel

More and more, we pet parents are deciding that vacationing just isn’t the same without our fur-friends . So welcome to The Cat Travel Destination Guide! The best starting place for you to plan your next feline-friendly getaway. 

We’ve used both our own experience of traveling with Yoda (our furry tripod adventure cat) and our wanderlust research skills to compile this cat travel destination list.

If you’re looking for adventures and destinations that offer activities, accommodation, and experiences both you and your kitty will love, you’re in the right place!

Table of Contents

Cat Travel Destination Ideas

US Destinations:

• Explore waterside fun in San Diego
• Be blown away by canyon hiking in Utah
• Camp under the stars in Ohio 
• Explore kitty culture in Texas 

Outside the US:

• Soak up luxurious sunshine in Mexico 
• Celebrate all things cat in Canada
• Escape to rustic peace in France

Can you travel with your cat? Absolutely! If you’ve been part of the Fluffy Kitty family for a while, you’ll know that we’ve been traveling with Yoda on and off for years. In that time we’ve crossed countless borders, ridden trains, planes, and automobiles, and learned so much about making travel seamless for your kitty. 

Done well, traveling with your cat promotes well-being, stimulation, and positive mental health for your fur friend. Allowing them to experience all that life has to offer.

So we’ll be sharing all the essential tips you’ll need to organize your trip purrrfectly for your cat’s comfort, as well as yours. 

To start putting pins in your cat travel destination map, we’re staying in our backyard — with some of the amazing cat travel destinations in the USA.

USA Cat Travel Destinations

If you’re looking for a city break where your cat can enjoy the scenery with you, San Diego is a great choice. 

With 8 amazing pet-friendly beaches, you can explore the sandy dunes with your fur-friend. Or even better, why not hop over to Eco Boat Rentals , which offers pet-friendly boats for hire so you and your kitty can see the sights by water — a peaceful and quiet way to tour the city that your cat might well love. 

Grab your backpack or stroller and take your cat for a tour of the amazing pet boutiques in the central districts. With a huge interest in holistic health and wellbeing you’ll be sure to find some amazing organic treats for your kitty. 

Plus there’s a host of pet-friendly restaurants, and most patios accept pets of all shapes and sizes. 

As for where to stay, there’s a whole bunch of amazing pet-friendly AirBnB’s that we found here , which is always a great option if you want a quieter base for your cat to feel relaxed in. Our fave is this amazing beachside cottage!

Just be sure to check with the host if cats are okay, and whether the apartment is safe and secure. 

• Backpacks or Strollers offer a great way to explore with your cat in more urban areas, without them being approached or stressed by other strangers or dogs.
• If you are heading into the city without your kitty, read our guide on How Long Can You Leave a Cat at Home While on Vacation ?

Buck Canyon — Utah 

Buck Canyon is brimming with beautiful, wild scenery and notorious history, making it an amazing destination for super adventurous cats with curious owners. 

In the remote Robbers’ Roost, a region notorious as an outlaw hideout in the Old West, Buck Canyon covers phenomenal vistas and intrepid trails for those with experienced feline hikers. 

Following your cat’s lead on these trails, be sure to keep them cool, hydrated, and safe. In return, you’ll be experiencing nature at a slower pace, from a different perspective, in a new light. Exploring the hiding spaces and breathtaking views of the real wild west!

A perfect place to take the RV or Campervan , you can wake up to scenic desert sunrises. Or, you could stay at the local pet-friendly Buck’s Lodge Hotel . With a ‘serenity garden’ where your kitty can stretch their legs, they charge a reasonable pet charge of $20/night. 

• Follow our Guide to Hiking With Cats to make sure you are both ready and prepared to take on these amazing trails.
• Be sure your RV is cat-friendly with our full guide.
• Remain on leash to make sure your cats stay within sight and safe under your watchful eyes. 

San Antonio — Texas

Texas is an amazing state, with such varied experiences on offer — making it an amazing road trip destination. So make your way along to San Antonio to experience some of the city’s most precious historical and cultural sites. Including the amazing 13-mile, pet-friendly San Antonio River Walk. 

Stop along this route and get out your backpack to explore La Villita, San Antonio’s finest crafts area, filled with weavers, glassblowers, sculptors, and even boot makers! There’s a host of pet-friendly restaurants all along the river walk, with quieter options for cats available. 

Don’t miss the scenic Brackenridge Park either, a sprawling 300 acre nature area with a mixture of trails to explore for peace and quiet, as well as a serene Japanese garden. 

Oh, and of course, there’s The Alamo for all those history fans out there. 

In the bustle of the day, escape to a quiet break with your kitty by staying at this beautiful country lodge . 

• As a busier city break, this might not be suitable for more nervous kitties. If this is the case for you, stick to the other destinations. 
• Of course, watch out for heat exposure in those warmer times of the year. Make sure your car is A/C controlled, and avoid excursions at peak hours of the day. Be sure to bring a collapsible bowl and plenty of water. 

Lake Erie — Ohio

The ideal spot for some cat-friendly camping, pet lovers of all kinds adore the lake’s beautiful beaches and nearby nature trails, with the convenience of gracious pet-friendly hospitality nearby.

Park up at East Harbor State Park, an amazing 1,800 acre nature reserve on the edge of the lake, with several pet-friendly pitching spots. With 11 hiking trails to choose from, providing more than 10 miles of walking, you’ll be sure to find tranquil moments alone in nature with your kitty. 

On your way out or into this holiday, you even make a detour to The Feline Historical Museum (about 2 hours drive away). Full of cat figurines, artwork, and other memorabilia, you’ll be in cat heaven! 

• Read our full guide to Camping With Your Cat. 
• The East Harbor pet policy states that pets must be on a leash no longer than six feet, must have proof of rabies vaccination available upon request, and may not be left unattended in the campground. 
• You might want to bring a Cat Backpack for those longer trails, in case your kitty gets tired. 

Greenville — South Carolina 

We were staying in Greenville whilst Yoda was finishing his radiation treatment for cancer.  And while it was by no means a holiday, we were still able to appreciate what an amazing destination it was for cat-lovers. 

A fantastic city with sprawling parks, natural trails, and pet-friendly hotels and restaurants to boot, it’s a great urban getaway that still provides plenty of natural beauty to explore. We highly recommend visiting The Barkery Bistro for freshly made treats and Paws & Claws for all the cute toys and accessories you could ever dream of!

• If you’re thinking Greenville sounds ideal for your next getaway, then you’ll want to check out our guide to the 7 Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in the area. 
• You’ll be pleased to know that there are some highly rated vets in this area, as we can attest to from personal experience! So you’ll be in good hands should you ever need them. 

Travel Destinations Outside The USA With Your Cat

A hop over the border, Mexico is a great place to start your wider cat-friendly travels. 

Mexican hospitality is super welcoming of our four-legged friends, with plenty of shopping and dining options available. As most restaurants and cafes have patios, you’ll always be able to find somewhere to stop for a bite. 

When choosing an area to stay or places to visit, there are a few amazing options to choose from. The Huasteca Potosina is a beautiful national park, with options for hiking, boating, or just picnicking. 

Then there’s Puerto Escondido, a beautiful pet-friendly beach area with amazing restaurants and sunsets to enjoy. Maybe your kitty could even take to the waves like surfing cat Hokule’a.

And if you are looking to splash out, the Las Ventanas al Paraiso Resort offers made-to-order dishes served in metallic bowls with faux gemstones and kitty-themed placemats for cats! A portable Pet Cabana is even available for use in suites, or at the pool or beach, so they can enjoy the outdoors in shady comfort.

• Traveling by car, there’s a limit of two pets per person and you’ll need an up-to-date vaccination record and health certificate.
• If you are traveling by plane, you can check out our full guide to Flying to Mexico with Your Cat.
• If you are going to hit those sandy dunes, read our 21 Tips for Taking Your Cat to the Beach .
• It’s important to know that you cannot import fresh, frozen, or refrigerated meat across the border, so you might want to change your kitty’s diet before traveling, or check that you can buy fresh ingredients where you are staying. 

Canada has everything to satisfy your wanderlust without traveling far — from wild scenery to vibrant cities. Ideal for road trips or city breaks alike, it’s super pet-friendly too!

You could start in the beating heart, with the Calgary Photo Tour which includes lots of opportunities for special portraits together in the most picturesque spots in the city.

With plenty of outdoor patios to enjoy some local cuisine, we love the look of Sandy Beach Park for a picnic with views of the Calgary skyline. Or take in the sunsets and sunrises at Banff National Park which has miles of beautiful trails as well as places to set up camp.

Vancouver is home to MEOWFEST (coming in August 2022), Canada’s biggest festival for the cat community. A ‘memorable purrty’ with heaps of cat-centric activities, all to raise funds for rescue and adoption efforts. Sign us up!

Or get your skis on and bring your fur-friend to Big White Ski Resort — for pet-friendly accommodation that offers winter adventures for both you and your kitty. 

• You can get all the information you need in advance of your trip with our guide to Crossing the Border into Canada with a Cat.
• If temperatures are set to drop, make sure your kitty has enough blankets and some central heating to stay warm. 
• Read our guide to Van Life with a Cat

With sleepy villages, rustic scenery, and beautiful cuisine — what’s not to love about France!

If you are looking for a quieter escape with your cat, this may be a great escape for you both. Away from the more popular dog-filled areas, nervous cats will enjoy these areas hugely. 

Raved about by other cat bloggers, the Corniche Des Cevennes is a beloved scenic area to explore. Located centrally in the country, this beautiful area has scenic roads paved with history — back to neolithic times! Relax after a few hours exploring in a cute little chalet with some local delicacies from the market towns around.  

Another cat-friendly destination is Luberon, with stunning forested paths lined by ancient Roman walls. Soak up the views in a traditional stone gîte . A short road trip away is idyllic Provence, where you can visit heritage sites, waterfalls, and peaceful hiking trails for more experienced adventurers. 

• You’ll need to make sure you have the right paperwork to enter the EU with your cat, including proof of microchipping, rabies vaccination, and health certificates. 
• In case you need it, here’s our full guide to How to Travel with a Cat on a Plane.

The Cat Travel Destination Guide — The Wrap Up

So there you have it, an exciting list of cat-friendly travel destinations. We’ve been to some, but others are still on our list. Where we go, we love nothing more than having Yoda by our side 🙂 

To help your cat prepare for traveling, it’s worth reading our guide to Training a Cat to Be an Adventure Cat , which includes a full kit list of all the essentials for cat travel. 

What’s next on your adventure cat agenda? Let us know! 

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How to Travel With a Cat: 15 Questions and Safety Tips

Medically Reviewed by

Tracy Isenberg, LVT

If you are planning a vacation, you may be wondering how to travel with a cat. There are lots of things to consider as a cat parent before booking a flight or starting a road trip.

Most cats aren't great candidates for a road trip or air travel. But, it's possible to teach your cat how to travel with you.

In this article, we answer five key questions you may have as a pet parent about how to travel with a cat. Plus, 10 safety tips for traveling with your kitty.

5 key questions from pet parents

Keeping your furry friends comfortable and safe while traveling is key to a pet-friendly vacation. From what essential supplies to bring to where your cat can go, here are five questions from pet parents about how to travel with a cat.

1. What do I need to bring?

Wherever your trip takes you, be sure you have your cat's essentials. Cats often need certain supplies to stay comfortable and happy on your trip.

Here's a list of the items you should bring while you travel with a cat:

• Your cat's regular food
• Water dishes
• Cat carriers
• Their favorite treats
• Harness and leash
• Their medications ( flea & tick treatment , vitamins )

2. What safety tips should I consider?

Pet owners should consider their cat's health condition, comfort, and happiness while traveling. Traveling with your cat doesn't have to be stressful. But, if you’re unprepared, it may be a bad idea.

Here are five essential pet safety tips for pet parents traveling with cats:

• Talk to your veterinarian about medications your pet needs.
• Keep your cat in a crate or pet carrier.
• On a road trip, stop regularly for breaks.
• When traveling by air, take note of your airline's regulations.
• Prepare an emergency kit for your pet.

3. How can I keep my cat calm?

Travel can be overwhelming and overstimulating for pets. And, many cats may get anxious during travel.

To help calm down a cat in the car, bring cat enrichment toys to keep them busy. Or, try calming tools like diffusers and treats to make car travel less stressful for your cat.

If your cat needs more help to stay calm during travel, ask your vet about anti-anxiety medications for cats.

4. What other health needs do I need to cover?

Aside from anxiety, pets may get nauseous during car rides. If your cat is experiencing motion sickness, they may show signs like:

• Excessive licking

Don't worry, there are plenty of ways to help a cat that is experiencing motion sickness in the car.

Try keeping the car windows cracked for fresh airflow in the back seat. If you're traveling in the car for longer periods, allow for rest stops and play time along the way.

Keeping your cat in a carrier while in the car can help them feel safe and secure. Put their bed inside the carrier and provide toys for enrichment and comfort. And, never leave your cat alone in a hot car.

If you know your cat gets car sick, visit your vet for a cat check-up and ask about anti-nausea medication for your kitty. Your veterinarian will suggest methods to keep your cat from getting sick during your road trip.

5. Where can I travel with my pet?

Humans and their pets can travel anywhere together, as long as the final destination allows pets. Camping is a great option for humans wanting to bring their kitty along on their vacation.

The process of flying internationally with pets is different from flying domestically. You may have to provide a health certificate or medical records for their cat before traveling internationally.

If you plan to go overseas with your cat, book early and allow for extra time at the airport to check in. If you are unsure about your transportation method's policy, check with the company about their pet policies ahead of time.

10 tips for traveling with a cat

Now that you've answered some important questions when it comes to cat travel, consider these tips for how to travel with your feline friend. Remember, all cats are different and there is no surefire way to travel with your pet successfully.

Here are our 10 best tips for how to travel with your feline friend.

1. practice traveling while they're young..

The best time to train a cat to travel is when they are young. But, if you have an adult cat, you can still teach them to travel.

If you have a new cat , practice taking them for a car ride a few times a week. This will help your cat get used to car travel and road trips.

2. Buy a proper pet carrier.

Before you start your road trip , be sure your cat has a carrier to travel in. Cat carriers keep cats safe during car rides and flights.

To get your cat comfortable in their carrier, introduce them to the carrier before your vacation. Make the carrier a part of your cat's environment, instead of only pulling it out for travel.

Your cat's carrier should be large enough for your cat to stand up and turn around in it. If you have multiple cats, be sure you have individual carriers for each cat.

Remember, not every pet carrier is the same. If you plan on flying with your cat, be sure their carrier is airline approved.

How to get your cat comfortable with their carrier

Try placing your cat's bed inside the carrier. Lure your cat toward the carrier and reward them with treats as they step inside.

As your cat gets used to the carrier, try closing the carrier door while they lay down inside. Reward them with treats as positive reinforcement, and open the door of the carrier for them to get out.

Slowly work up to more time in the closed carrier. Your cat's carrier should be a safe space, not a stressful one.

3. Consider your cat's breed, personality, and overall health.

Some cats have health problems that may make them unsuitable for travel. If your cat suffers from anxiety, old age, or preexisting health conditions, traveling may be dangerous for them.

Air travel in cargo holds can be dangerous for brachycephalic cat breeds , or cats with "pushed in" faces. Some common cat breeds include:

• Exotic shorthair

Traveling in an airplane cargo hold may be risky for these breeds due to their short nasal passages. This means these cats are extra sensitive to temperature changes and heat stroke.

Even if your cat's disposition makes them a good candidate for travel, you may learn that they don't enjoy traveling. Consider your cat's needs, personality, and health before bringing them along.

4. Bring a portable litter box.

A travel litter box is essential for traveling with a cat. Or, if space allows, bringing your cat's usual litter box can help your cat feel comfortable.

If you are traveling in the car, stop for potty breaks every few hours. At every stop, set your cat's travel litter box outside the car for them to use.

Cats need a litter box to maintain their hygiene and keep your car and living space clean while traveling. Cat parents can find travel litter boxes at their local pet store or online.

5. Stay up to date on vaccinations.

Before you leave for your trip, check with your vet to see if your cat needs any vaccinations . Talk to your veterinarian about your destination. They may suggest additional medicines or vaccines to keep your pet safe.

Vaccinating your cat to protect them from disease can help reduce stress while you travel. Accidents happen, but your pet getting sick with a preventable illness may put a damper on your trip.

6. Know the risks of flying with your pet.

If you plan to travel with your cat on a plane, consider keeping your cat in the main cabin of the airplane. If your cat needs tending to during a flight, get permission from a flight attendant to take them out of their carrier.

You may consider choosing an airline that allows for cats and service animals in the cabin instead of the cargo hold. The cargo holds of airplanes are pressurized, but temperature changes may still occur.

7. Keep your cat safe with a leash and harness.

While you're out and about on your vacation, be sure you can bring your cat along safely. Leash training is beneficial to keep your cat safe in a new environment.

Leash training isn't common for most cats. But, keeping your cat on a leash can keep them safe while you travel. Whether you're walking through the airport or stopping for a break during your road trip, keep your cat on a leash to keep them safe.

8. Find a cat-friendly hotel.

When you arrive at your destination, you'll need a place to crash with your furry friend. Most hotels allow service animals. But, if your cat is not a registered service animal, be sure your hotel allows cats.

When you check into your room, try to make it a cozy space for your cat. Set out water dishes, a travel litter box, and toys your cat likes to keep them entertained.

If your pet isn't comfortable around strangers, use the do not disturb sign to keep cleaning staff and other people away from your room. While you walk around the hotel, be sure to carry your cat or keep them close on a leash.

9. Plan a pet-friendly vacation.

Traveling with a cat is no small task. Be sure the effort of traveling with cats is worth it when you get to your destination.

When you plan your pet-friendly vacation, consider vacation spots that allow pets at:

• Lodging and hotels
• Activities and attractions
• Restaurants and bars

If you're unsure if your destination allows pets, call ahead and talk to a manager about their pet policies. Some lodging and hotels allow all small pets, while some only allow cats.

Not sure where to start? Check out our guide to pet-friendly vacations .

10. Consider leaving your cat at home.

If you decide in the end that bringing your kitty on a trip isn't a great idea, you have a few options. You can find a cat sitter, pay for overnight boarding, or leave your cat home alone.

Find a cat sitter

When choosing a cat sitter, consider choosing a trusted friend or family member. Bonus points if your cat is already familiar with this person and feels comfortable around them.

Prepare your home or cat sitter with your cat's essential supplies. And, be sure to leave a detailed list of your pet's health needs.

Pay for overnight boarding

Overnight boarding is a good option for cats that need lots of attention and play time. Social cats are great candidates for overnight boarding. When you drop off your cat, be sure to bring their regular food, favorite treats , and their bed.

Leave your cat home alone

If you have independent cats, leaving them at home may be the best option for you. You should cat-proof your house before leaving for vacation.

Put away any poisonous plants that may be sitting out. And, close doors to rooms with appliances and other potential dangers.

Remember to set out enough food and water for them, and clean their litter box before you leave. Consider investing in an automatic food and water feeder for your cat.

All cats have unique personalities and needs, and you know your cat best. No matter what option you choose, be sure your cat will be comfortable and safe while you're away.

There's no perfect way to travel with a cat. But, the most important thing to keep in mind is your cat's health, comfort, and safety.

Keep your cat healthy and happy while traveling with our vet-quality flea prevention.

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How to Travel with A Cat: 10 Vet-Approved Tips

When it is time to hit the road, can you feline tag along for the adventure? Of course, your cat can join you for a wild ride! You just have to make the proper accommodations to ensure your kitty stays comfortable, safe, and stress-free.

The 10 Tips for Traveling With Your Cat

• 1. Have a Proper Cat Carrier for Your Cat

Before you set off on your travels, you need to make sure you have a suitable pet carrier for your beloved feline. They need a comfy space as you are going from here to there. Make sure you get the cat carrier well in advance so that your cat gets time to adjust to it so it is a familiar environment for them.

It isn’t a good idea for a cat to be out and about in your car when you’re traveling. If you were ever in an accident, your cat could suffer from horrible wounds, and broken bones, and even meet an untimely demise—so proper protection is essential.

If you’re traveling by plane , you need a carrier for them to fly in as well. Airlines have particular measurement and tagging requirements, so make sure you buy an air travel-friendly carrier. Most products will have this information in the description, so shop responsibly.

The differences will depend on the method you’re using to travel. Always make sure that the carrier has the proper dimensions and that your pet is comfortable inside. Also, safety is paramount. The carrier must have secure latches that can sustain use without breaking or malfunctioning.

• 2. Find a Suitable Harness

Your cat may want to go on walks outside of its carrier while you travel. To achieve this, the safest option for your cat is to get them used to wearing a harness .

Before you even start traveling with your cat, it’s best to see how well they walk with restrictions. Practice makes perfect, so train your cat until they grow acclimated to the process. Be patient, as they might resist at first, but watch their attitudes change once they find out they get to explore.

Also, you want to buy a harness that is completely fitted to your feline. If the harness is loose or does not fit properly, your cat will likely escape by backing out or pulling from the protective restraints. If you were in an unfamiliar place, it could be a huge risk to take. After all, your cat might not come back.

Each product will size differently, so shop with your kitty’s accurate measurements on hand—and test the product before you travel to make sure it will hold up when you need it most.

Finding a great cat harness can be tricky. Our favorite is Hepper's Cat Harness & Leash Set , which includes a soft, adjustable velvet harness and a premium climbing rope leash.

With safety features like quick-release buckles, reflective stripes, and reinforced stitching, you'll love this machine-washable harness as much as your cat will! 

At Pet Keen, we've admired Hepper for many years, and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool company!

• 3. Find Pet-Friendly Hotels

Not all hotels allow animals or pets of any kind. You might get lucky and stay with family members or friends who will welcome your cat with open arms. However, if you have to find somewhere to stay on the road, pet-friendly hotels are a must.

Unless your cat is an emotional support animal, it can be nearly impossible to find places that allow you to bring them inside. Plan, as it is essential to know which places to stop.

Also, there might be additional fees associated with keeping a pet in a hotel, so you must plan that in your budget as well. Always call ahead to double-check so you aren’t aimlessly searching in the middle of the night for a place where you and your feline can rest your heads.

• 4. Consider Other Gear

There is plenty of gear on the market specifically for your adventuring cat. Whether it is a backpack carrier allowing them to see all of the sites or a safety harness for car rides, there are plenty of things that you can add to your shopping list.

Products we thought might be really useful are the tiny cat pop-up tents. These tents contain your cat safely inside while allowing them to see all of the sites around them. This could be terrific for park visits and other outdoor endeavors when you and your family will be pretty stationary and what you’re feeling to stay safe.

Get creative and look online. There are tons of ideas from cat lovers everywhere. You can even get them their little raincoat for inclement weather. It is interesting to see all of the things you can find. Check out some of these ideas on Pinterest .

• 5. Consider On-the-Go Litter Boxes

Travel-friendly litter boxes are designed specifically for your cat to do their business. However, they close up nicely to prevent any smells from seeping into your cargo. You can leave these litter boxes open when you’re at a hotel or another stationary place. To avoid causing any toilet stress to your kitty, ensure you bring the same type of litter that they are used to.

But in the car, your cat needs to be able to use the bathroom when needed without you having to suffer the whole ride. After all, those litter box smells in a condensed space can get more than a little stinky.

Your cat is going to need somewhere to potty on the road. Make sure that you buy a suitable litter box for on-the-go trips. You won’t want litter boxes tipping over in your car or otherwise causing a mess. Remember to allow your cat access to the litter box every few hours to prevent travel accidents.

• 6. Know Your Cat’s Limits

Some cats are more social and outgoing than other cats. If you take your cat on the road and plan to have them in places with crowds or lots of people, you should get to know them first. Some cats will not respond well whatsoever to a situation like this.

Others will thrive on the new sites and the attention. If you have an anxious cat that does not do well in social settings, it might be best to find other arrangements while you travel or avoid high-stress predicaments entirely.

• 7. Avoid Stressful Situations

The last thing you want to do is make your cat uncomfortable as you travel. To avoid any triggers or stressors, make sure to keep your cat’s environment as peaceful as possible. Loud noises, crowded spaces, and other animals might upset your cat, especially if they can’t figure out what is going on.

A cat who is not used to traveling will be a little bit more sensitive to these outside stimuli. Frantic kitties might display unusual behaviors, such as vocalizing, vomiting, diarrhea, or over-grooming. You can reduce these triggers to create a good experience for both you and your feline.

• 8. Make Meals Easy

Before you head out, it is best to make a meal plan  for your kitty. It shouldn’t be tough to do, but it might take some prep time. You can individually place meals in some storage containers for easy access. You can also grab the kibble bag or you can buy individual packets of food for your cat to enjoy as well. Regardless of the type of food you usually feed your cat, make sure that you feed them what they are used to throughout your trip. Also, make sure to bring plenty of fresh water for your cat to drink as well.

• 9. Collapsible Food & Water Bowls

You aren’t going to want bulky bowls taking up space when you are on the go. Many companies make collapsible food and water bowls so that you can fill, refill, and store away when they’re not in use.

Not only do these products take up less space, but they are also generally very easy to clean, jump out, and wipe down. Most of these collapsible products are made from highly durable, soft materials like silicone.

• 10. Implement Safety

Regardless of what you plan to do on your outings, your feline safety should be your top priority in every category. Cats can get extremely stressed, scared, rambunctious, and hungry on the road.

Having the proper safety measures put in place will allow a carefree experience for you and your kitty. It will reduce a lot of the headaches you might have.

Test any products before hitting the pavement to make sure everything is satisfactory And in working order. Most of all, make sure to enjoy yourself and consider this time well spent.

• Final Thoughts

As long as you plan accordingly, taking your cat traveling can be a very rewarding experience. Cats that have learned through positive reinforcement and that have made good associations with traveling have higher chances of having a wonderful time. Of course, some kitties are a little more reserved than others, so consider personality, too.

As long as you make sure that you have all the gear you need and you map your trip out properly , your adventures won’t be anything less than positive—kitty in tow.

You may also want to read:

• 11 Best Cat Tents & Teepees
• How to Travel with a Cat Litter Box

Featured Image Credit: Brian Goodman, Shutterstock

Ashley Bates

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• Travel with Cats

How to Travel with a Cat

Last Updated: January 13, 2023 Approved

This article was co-authored by Pippa Elliott, MRCVS . Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article has 13 testimonials from our readers, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 650,469 times.

Most people do not relish the thought of bringing their cats with them on a vacation or on a road trip. There are a few fearless felines that are not finicky about traveling, but for many cats, traveling and leaving their familiar surroundings can be sheer terror. However, it is possible to travel with a cat without a huge amount of problems. The key is to the prepare ahead of time by acclimating your cat to travel gradually and preparing supplies well before the departure date.

Preparing Ahead of Time

• Give your cat treats while it is in the car. This will give it better feelings about being there.
• Look upon these as trial runs to work out any kinks before you have to take a long trip far from home.

• The signs of a cat with motion sickness (while in the car of course) include: crying or vocalizing that doesn’t quit after a few minutes into the car ride, excessive drooling, immobility, or acting afraid to move, or excess activity or pacing, vomiting, or urinating or defecating.
• Ginger has also been used to treat nausea in humans and it is safe to use in cats; this can be found in liquid form or chews from on-line or brick and mortar pet stores or in the occasional veterinary clinic.

• Discuss dosages with your veterinarian and follow their advice carefully for the best result.

• Most sedatives won't knock the cat out cold and should only take the edge off. If the drug is too sedating or not sedating enough, you should let your vet know before you leave. The cat should remain alert to its surroundings, even when on the sedative.
• While on the medication trial, put the cat in the carrier and take it for a drive. This way, you'll know what behaviors to expect while you're traveling with a medicated cat. Make sure your vet gives you enough medication for the duration of your travel (to and from) and ask for an extra pill or two to try at home before you embark.

• Be sure to test your cat's reaction to Feliway before spraying it in the carrier. A small minority of cats interpret the spray as another cat's markings and may have a negative or even aggressive reaction to it.

Taking Your Cat on a Trip

• Never make your cat stay in its carrier for longer than eight hours without providing it with food, water and a chance to use the litter box.

• The carrier should be placed in a secure spot in the car, preferably strapped in place with a seat belt. If the seat belt won’t work, you can use bungee cords or small lengths of rope to secure the carrier in the car in case of sudden stops or an accident. [4] X Research source

Expert Q&A

• Note that airlines will not accept a sedated animal because it is more difficult to know if it is experiencing any health problems, including heat stroke. If you are making a long drive to the airport with your cat do not give it a sedative as it will not be able to fly. Instead, Rescue Remedy is an acceptable calming alternative as the animal remains fully alert. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• Don't forget to bring a scratching post or cardboard scratch pad! People have a tendency to forget this, and it may cause your cat to resort to scratching on unwanted surfaces, such as the hotel curtains or bedspreads. Cats need to scratch; not only is it instinctual, but it also allows them to get a good stretch and use muscles they wouldn't normally use. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1
• On long trips with more than one cat, a large collapsible dog carrier that fits in the back seat is a great option. You can fit in a small covered litter box that doubles as a cat booster seat to look out the window, in addition to having room for a cat bed, food, water and toys. The zippered screened sides allow for easy access, as well as letting your cat see you and the scenery out the window. The larger carrier doubles as a safe place when visiting others with pets if you need to go out, as the cats can still use the litter box and have room to move around. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

• Make sure your cat is wearing the collar and ID tags at all times! You never know if your cat will somehow weasel its way away. A microchip with up to date information on record with the chip company is a never-loose ID tag. A rescuer will need to have a vet or shelter scan it to get the number. Thanks Helpful 37 Not Helpful 13
• Do not allow a cat unrestricted access to your car when you're driving. Even the smallest things can spook a cat, and the last thing you need is a cat hiding in the back of your car, under the seat where you can't reach it, or dashing under your feet to the pedals. If you're riding with passengers and your cat likes to look out the window, putting a harness and leash on and allowing the cat to sit that way may not be a bad idea. Be careful your cat does not become agitated about it, however. Thanks Helpful 28 Not Helpful 10
• Never leave your cat in the car alone, even with the windows cracked. It can take less than twenty minutes for your pet to overheat and die when left in a car. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

Things You'll Need

• Food and water dishes
• Cat carrier
• Small towel or blanket
• Scratching post or pad
• Cat toys, string
• Cat harness and leash
• Cat collar with ID tags
• Enzyme based cleaner in case your cat has an accident in the car or hotel.
• Rescue Remedy spray
• Medications

You Might Also Like

• ↑ http://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/digestive/c_ct_motion_sickness?page=2
• ↑ http://www.vcahospitals.com/main/pet-health-information/article/animal-health/motion-sickness-in-cats/6528
• ↑ http://www.feliway.com/uk/What-causes-cat-stress-or-anxiety/Traveling-with-a-cat-in-a-cat-carrier

About This Article

To prepare your cat for travel, make sure your cat eats and drinks several hours before traveling and has access to the litter box until it's time to go so it doesn't need to go on the road. Right before putting your cat in its crate, place a harness on it so you can easily leash your cat when you open the crate. Plan to let your cat out to stretch its legs every few hours, and use the leash to keep your cat from running away! For more tips from our Veterinarian reviewer, including how to use pheromones to keep your cat calm, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Travel With Two Cats: 16 Tips & Tricks

Image Credit: Creative Cat Studio, Shutterstock

Last Updated on February 3, 2024 by Catster Editorial Team

Most pet owners know how to travel with a dog, but feline friends are often left with pet sitters when owners go on vacation. Traveling with cats isn’t impossible, though, and there are plenty of reasons that you may want or need to travel with your cats. Moving to a new house, going on a road trip, or taking regular hiking adventures are all common activities that cats can join you in.

For multi-cat households, making sure both your cats are comfortable while you travel can be a challenge. So, we put together these tips and tricks to help you prepare for your trip , whether you’re traveling by airplane , moving to a new house , road-tripping in an RV , or even traveling with two cats and a dog . Let’s get started!

• Preparing for a Trip
• 1. Accessible Clean Water

No matter how long your trip is, clean water is one of the most important things that your cat will need access to. While it might not be wise to leave a bowl of water in their carrier while you’re driving, you should take regular breaks and give them water to keep them hydrated.

Bear in mind that they’ll also need to use the litter tray at some point. If you can’t let your cat out of their carrier when you take a break, you can put a litter tray in their carrier with them. Make sure you check it regularly to see if you need to clean it out.

• 2. Disposable Litter Boxes

Unlike dogs, which are happy to do their business during walks around rest stops, it’s safer to keep your cats confined to their carriers for most of the trip. They will need somewhere to go to the bathroom, though, and even pet-friendly hotels won’t cater to their toilet needs for you.

Fortunately, you don’t need to carry bulky litter trays around, as there are various disposable or collapsible litter trays that you can use in your car, RV, or pet-friendly hotel. If you’re traveling with two cats, it’s best to have at least two litter trays. For cramped RVs, you can get away with only having one if you clean the litter out regularly and ensure that your cats don’t bully each other when they try to use it.

• 3. Leash Training

House cats don’t get many chances to explore like their outdoor-loving counterparts, and active cats can get grumpy if they’re cooped up for too long. Leash training enables you to take your cats on walks around rest stops or RV parks. Make sure you use a harness and leash designed for cats, and take the time before your trip to get your cat used to the new item.

You should also be cautious of busy rest stops or RVs moving around the parks that you stay at. Loud noises may startle your cat during adventures outside, especially in unfamiliar areas.

On the road, keeping your cats comfortable is essential. During the journey, this means placing their favorite blankets in their carriers and taking regular breaks for water, using the litter tray, or cleaning up any bouts of carsickness.

How you prepare for the journey can also make your travels simpler. Make sure your cat views their carrier as a safe spot, and get them used to car rides. Introduce them to the vehicle when stopped, and take them on short trips around the neighborhood. By slowly building up to longer trips, you’ll help reduce the chances of your cat suffering from car-sickness.

• 5. Up-to-Date Microchips

Even if you take every measure possible to ensure that your cat doesn’t escape during your travels, accidents happen. Cats have a knack for losing their collars, so any contact information on them will be lost, too. This is where microchips come in handy .

If your cat doesn’t already have one, make sure you get them microchipped before setting out on the road. Also, ensure that the information on the chip includes everything that someone will need to get in contact with you to get your cat home.

• 6. Planning

When it comes to traveling with two cats, planning the trip properly is the most important thing that you can do. Before you set out, carefully plan your route. Consider pet-friendly hotels or RV parks, along with rest areas and even the location of emergency veterinary clinics.

Planning can also help you figure out how long you’ll be on the road. You’ll be able to work out how much time you can spare, if any, to give your cats a break from being stuck in their carriers. Only let them out when you’re not driving and when the doors are shut securely.

• 7. Veterinary Records & Health Certificates

Many places that you can travel to with your cat, whether in a different state or another country, have different regulations when it comes to the health of your cat. You can benefit from keeping veterinary records and health certificates within easy reach during short trips, too. If you need to go through a border checkpoint, up-to-date medical records can make passing through much easier.

They can also come in handy if your cats escape. While veterinary records won’t help find them, they’ll prove that your cat isn’t feral or a danger to people whom they might encounter.

• 8. Carriers

Leash training is a good way to give house cats a chance to explore the outdoors, but certain felines will always be too skittish for you to rely on the harness and leash. If you spend any amount of time traveling with your cat, especially if you have more than one, a carrier is essential.

A secure carrier will keep your cat safe during a long drive. It’ll also help you cart them from place to place without the risk of losing them if they get scared.

For long road trips, you can give them a chance to explore the car once you’ve stopped at a rest stop, provided that all the car doors are shut. Just remember to put them back in their carrier before you head off or open the car door. Unrestrained animals can be a dangerous distraction while you’re driving.

• Tips for Airplanes
• 9. Call the Airline

Going on car trips or staying in an RV can give you a great deal of control over how you travel with your cats. Flying with your pets is another matter. Different airlines have different regulations for pets in the cabin. Some airlines will let you keep two cats in one carrier, while others will only allow one per passenger unless the cats are kittens between certain ages.

The easiest way to figure out whether you can fly with two cats is by asking the airline directly. Double-check which carriers are acceptable and how many cats you can take on board. Be prepared to change your travel plans if you can’t find an airline that is affordable and allows you to keep both cats with you while you travel.

• Tips for Moving to a New House
• 10. Load Last & Unload First

Relocating — whether it’s a house move or a camping trip — is always a hassle. The best idea here is to ensure that your cats spend the minimum amount of time possible in their carriers. They’ll be in them for a while regardless, but the less time they spend waiting around, the less irritable they’ll be.

When you pack your belongings into your car, leave plenty of space for both cat carriers. Keep your cats in a secure room while you pack up, and once you’re ready to go, load them into their carriers and put them in the car. Once you arrive at your destination, the carriers should be the first things that you remove from the car. This goes for stays in pet-friendly hotels, too.

• 11. Let Them Out in a Secure Room

Your arrival at your new house should be part of your planning, especially when you’re moving with cats. After unloading your cats, put them in a secure room and set up any water and food dishes, along with their litter tray and a few familiar blankets and toys. Once both cat carriers are in the room, the cats can come out and explore their new surroundings.

You can also use this trick for any pet-friendly hotels if you need to make multiple trips to the car for your luggage. If the hotel lets you leave cats unattended, let them stretch their legs in the bathroom while you grab everything that you need from your car.

• Tips for RV Trips
• 12. Get Them Used to Indoor Living

If your cats are used to exploring outside, it’ll be difficult to convince them to stay in your RV full-time. You also run the risk of losing them somewhere during the trip if you let them out on their own at any parks that you visit.

To counter this, it’s best to get your cats used to being house cats. Less-active breeds are the easiest to work with here because they’ll be happier curling up and napping rather than exploring. However, with plenty of indoor activities, your energetic feline can be taught to love indoor life, too.

This process should start a few weeks before your planned trip, so you don’t have to teach them to stay inside while you’re on the road.

• 13. Go to Pet-Friendly RV Parks

RVs are homes away from home. You can keep any number of pets inside that you like. Many RV parks do welcome pets, but some have stipulations on how many pets they allow at any one time and on what type of pet. While one RV park might accept cats and dogs, another might prefer dogs only.

If you don’t have another choice, you might get away with having multiple cats in canine-only RV parks if the cats never leave your RV. This isn’t a good idea if you want to take your feline for a walk around the park, though.

When you plan your trip, check the rules at the RV parks that you plan to stay at to make your stay more pleasant.

• 14. Start Young

The younger your cat is when you start road-tripping with them, the easier it’ll be to get them used to the routine, especially if you’re planning on living in an RV full-time or taking regular trips. Younger cats will also find it easier to adjust if they’ve had fewer trips to a veterinarian to associate road trips with.

You can travel with older cats, too, but make sure you spend more time getting them used to the RV or road trips in general before you start your vacation. Making sure they associate road trips with something good instead of a trip to the vet will help them settle into their new routine.

• 15. Take Regular Breaks

If you don’t spend your entire vacation camped out in one RV park, you’ll spend most of the time on the road. Taking regular breaks is important for you and for your cats. Make note of rest stops along your way, and stop regularly. Stopping for lunch or a bathroom break or just to stretch your legs will give you a chance to check on your cats, too.

You can even let your cats out of their carriers for a bit. Even if you don’t let them outside, you can keep the car doors shut and give them a chance to explore. Remember to make sure they’re back in their carriers before you set off again.

• Tips for Multi-Pet Traveling
• 16. Personal Space

If you are traveling with a dog and two cats, knowing how to keep the peace between all three animals is worth knowing. If you’re in an RV, creating a dog- or cat-only spot can make the fur-flying altercations less common.

For cats, this can be as simple as a basic cat tree in front of a window. You’ll be able to feed them on the higher perches, and the extra height will let them stay out of your dog’s way.

During long car rides, keeping your dog away from the cat carriers can help, too. While your canine might think that they’re helping by sticking their noses through the bars, your cat might not appreciate having their space invaded, especially during a stressful move.

Traveling with pets is a challenge, but it can save time and money when it comes to hiring pet sitters. You might not be able to travel with your two cats the same way that you can with dogs, but they can enjoy a road trip just as much. Give both felines plenty of time to adjust to the car and to drive around the neighborhood before taking your trip.

Keep them both restrained in separate carriers while you’re driving and take plenty of breaks to make sure they’re as comfortable as possible.

• See Also:  How to Travel With a Cat: 16 Tips and Tricks
• Preventive Vet

Featured Image Credit: Creative Cat Studio, Shutterstock

About the Author

Christian Adams

Christian started writing for a local newspaper as a teenager, and he's been involved in the publishing industry for most of his adult life. Combining his love of writing with a passion for animals, he is currently the Director of Editorial at Pangolia and the Editor-in-Chief at Catster. Christian lives in the Philippines with his wife, son, and four rescue cats: Trixie, Chloe, Sparky, and Chopper.

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How to Travel with a Cat: The Ultimate Guide

Do you relish the thought of traveling with your cat, whether it’s bringing them on a road trip, move, or vacation? There are a few fearless cats that don’t mind the travel. But for many cats, taking them from their familiar surroundings and traveling can be terror-inducing.

My cat hates to travel. And it can be an ordeal from start to finish. But, I’ve found that it is possible to travel with my cat without dozens of problems or stress on either of our parts. I’ve found that the key is to get everything ready before we go, in advance. As well as familiarizing my cat with the process.

Essentials to Pack for Airline Travel

There are several essentials you need to pack before you take your cat on a plane. Having these things on hand and together will reduce your stress levels. Additionally, packing early will ensure you don’t forget anything. The following items will help keep your cat happy and healthy in their adventure.

• Cat carrier with an absorbent lining
• Food and water dishes
• Collar, leash, or a cat harness
• Vet records, including health certificates and proof of vaccinations
• Favorite toys
• Litter pan and cat litter (Optional – depends on travel)
• Contact information for the regular vet
• Favorite blanket
• Information about local vet offices at your destination
• Medications
• List of attractions, accommodations, and restaurants that accept pets

Traveling With Your Cat By Plane – The Basics

Air travel isn’t safe for cats according to the Humane Society. With this in mind, you should only take your cat on a plane if it’s the last resort.

If your cat has a flat face like a Persian, the dangers of air travel go up. Since they have very short nasal passages, they have a higher risk of suffering from oxygen deprivation or heatstroke.

Hairless breeds are more vulnerable to extreme temperature changes. And you should never have them sent to the cargo or luggage bay.

Make Arrangements in Advance

There are a few things you have to do in advance before you travel with your cat on a plane. First, check the airlines’ guidelines regarding bringing a cat on the aircraft. Every airline will have different requirements. If you don’t meet them, your cat won’t fly with you.

Call the airline yourself to make your reservation. Ask if the plane has space in the cabin for your cat to travel beside you before you book the flight.

Also, ask if the airlines restrict the number of animals they allow in the cabin. If it’s at all possible, try to get a direct flight with no layovers or transfers. Any interruption along the way will only add to your cat’s stress levels and increase the chances of something happening.

Ask the person you talk to about the amount of space under your seat. Take these measurements and compare them to your carrier to make sure it fits. Make a note of any paperwork you’ll need to bring with you. This paperwork usually includes veterinary records and health certificates.

A week or two before your flight, schedule a visit with your regular veterinarian. Double-check that your cat is current on their shots. And this is also a great time to get any records and certificates.

Set whatever carrier you want to have your cat contained in out beforehand. You want your cat to be able to access it, so they get used to it. I like to feed my cat in it for a few weeks before we leave. This helps her relax, get comfortable, and relate the crate to good experiences.

It’s also important that you practice putting your cat in and removing them from the crate. Make this a routine and quick process because you’ll have to take your cat out of the carrier when you pass through the security screening at the airport. If you forget this step, your cat could bolt when you open the door.

How to Travel with a Cat by Plane – Flying Day

You want to reduce the chances of your cat getting sick on the flight. So you shouldn’t feed them for at least six hours before the slated departure time.

However, you should give your cat small amounts of water to keep them hydrated. You can put a few ice cubes in the carrier’s tray. This has fewer chances of spilling and making the carrier uncomfortable for your furry friend.

You’ll have to pass your cat’s carrier though the security screening. If you make your reservations early, you might be able to request taking your cat through a special second security port. This special space will ensure you don’t have to remove your cat from the crate.

If you can’t secure one, be prepared to take your cat out and hold them while their box goes through the x-ray machine. A leash and harness can keep your cat safe and secure until you can put them back in and latch the door.

You can use soft or hard carriers for your cat. The hard-sided ones will have ventilation holes in the plastic sides. Soft-sided ones have mesh panels to allow air in. I like to fly with airlines that let my cat ride beside me in the cabin so I can keep an eye on them. This is why I prefer to use soft-sided crates with mesh paneling.

Your cat’s box has to fit under the seat in front of you. Your cat has to have enough room to stand up, lie down, and turn around in natural positions.

Additionally, your cat has to stay inside for the flight’s duration for everyone’s safety. It has to be escape-proof, leak-proof, and clean. You should line it with absorbent bedding that is safe for your cat and non-toxic.

Airline Guidelines for Flying with Cats

All the airlines will have their own sets of rules for flying with cats. Most airlines have strict guidelines that dictate how many animals can safely ride in the cabin. Also, most flights have one carrier per customer rule with specific weight restrictions.

A few policies will allow you to check your cat in as luggage, but most don’t. The cat should be at least eight weeks old and fully weaned in order to travel safely with you. We’ve found the policies for traveling with cats for some of the most popular airlines below.

Airline Policies for Traveling with Cats

• American Airlines – Cats must be at least eight weeks old. American Airlines doesn’t accept any brachycephalic cats. And you can have your cat travel with you as a carry-on.
• Delta Airlines – With Delta, you’ll pay either a $125 or $200 checked pet fee each way. You can fly in the United States, but you have to call ahead and make a special reservation for your cat.
• Frontier Airlines – You can’t check pets in as baggage on Frontier Airlines. You’ll pay a $99 fee, and your pet has to fit in a specific sized-container. Also, it’s your responsibility to check with any regulations you have to meet at your destination.
• JetBlue – You can only fly with one pet per customer for a one-way fee of $125. Your pet and carrier must weigh below 20 pounds, and your cat has to stay secure while on the plane and in the airport.
• Southwest Airlines – You have to reserve your space in advance for your pet. And your cat will only fly in cabin for a $95 fee each way. They’ll only allow for six pets per flight.
• Spirit Airlines – You need an updated rabies vaccination for your cat to fly with proof. And you get one container per flight with a maximum of two cats. The pet and carrier weight can’t exceed 40 pounds.

Note: These policies can change, but are current as of the writing of this article. Always contact the airline directly before you make your reservation and ask about flying with your cat.

Safety Tips for Flying with Your Cat

There are several things you can do to help keep your cat safe when they fly. They include but are not limited to:

• Don’t give your cat tranquilizers unless their vet prescribes them.
• Clip your cat’s claws before they fly to reduce the chances of them snagging on anything.
• When you board, make sure the flight crew knows you have your cat so they can make special arrangements.
• Try to fly at non-peak times. Avoid holidays.
• Attach a travel label to your cat’s carrier. It should have your contact information and your destination.
• Keep a current picture of your cat on you. If they get lost, the airline can use it to find them.
• Once you get off the plane, open the crate and take a look at your cat. If you think something is wrong, take your cat to the vet.

Essentials to Pack for Car or RV Travel

The goal is to make your cat as comfortable as possible as you travel in the car. This way, they’ll be ready to take on both long and short trips. My cat loves to ride in the car for short distances. Through a trial and error process, I’ve found a few things that make car or RV travel easier for everyone involved.

• Bottled water with a no-spill bowl
• Dry cat food, favorite treats , and a small bowl
• Cat carrier
• Leash and harness
• Cat first-aid kit
• Collar with ID tags
• Cat-safe cleaning supplies
• Favorite cat toys
• Medical records
• Paper towels, plastic bags, and washcloths
• Soft blankets
• Photo of your cat in case they escape
• Pre-travel vet checkup

Before you go anywhere with your cat, make advance arrangements. Start by preparing your car or RV for your cat a few days ahead of your trip. Cats are very sensitive to some fragrances. So make sure you haven’t sprayed an air freshener in your car lately. Remove anything that could scare your feline like decorations hanging from your rearview mirror.

Next, decide if your furry friend is going to ride in a mesh or hard-sided carrier. Make sure you have room for the crate in your car and double-check that you can secure it with the seatbelt. When you know it fits, introduce your cat to it. Set it out inside where your cat can explore it. Once they get comfortable going inside, take them for short car rides. These rides should only last a few minutes to start with. And you can gradually increase the time.

Monitor your cat while you’re on this drive. If they seem overly stressed or sick, consider scheduling a vet appointment. Your vet can prescribe medications for motion sickness or give you tips on how to help your cat relax.

Get everything ready and packed your cat needs the night before you leave.

It’s also a good idea to gather up all your necessary vet papers and put them somewhere you can reach if you need them. Try sticking them in the glove box or in your purse or carry-on bag. If you have room in the front seat, put them there.

You want to ensure your cat is safe and comfortable at the same time. When you get a carrier for your cat to stay in, make sure they can stand up, turn around, and stretch out comfortably. The bottom of the carrier should have some kind of padding. This can be a bed, soft blankets, or a pillow. You want something that won’t slide around. So your padding should cover the entire floor to reduce movement.

Secure it in place with a seatbelt. If you were to get in a car accident, this restraint system would keep your cat as safe as possible because it would prevent them from flying around.

How to Travel with a Cat by Car or RV – Travel Day

If you’re planning on traveling for a shorter trip that is under six hours, it’s okay for your cat to stay in the carrier the whole time. However, longer trips that stretch over six hours or into a few days will require letting your cat out periodically to stretch, use the litter box , and drink.

When you let your cat out, make sure you only do so when you park the car. If you let your cat wander around when the vehicle is moving, think of how hazardous this is to both you and your cat. Your cat could get startled and end up by the pedals and cause an accident. Or your cat could freak out and scratch someone.

Once you get your cat out, put their harness on before you open any doors or windows. You want them in a harness instead of a collar because a harness is harder to escape from. Also, it’s easier to catch a dragging leash than it is to try to grab your cat’s collar.

Your cat should have ID tags on the harness or collar. The tags should have your name, phone number, and address attached to it. A microchip is a good idea too. But it only works if someone finds your lost cat and takes them to a local shelter or vet as a stray.

If you plan on taking a long road trip and your cat will have to use the bathroom at some point, the easiest thing you can do is buy a disposable litter box or two that come with the litter already inside. You set this box on the floor and throw it in a trash receptacle when your cat uses it. There’s no mess and no fuss.

Pack plenty of water when you go, but only give your cat water when you park the car. Don’t leave the water bowl full in the carrier when you travel because it can and will spill and leave a mess. Your cat will get wet and be miserable for the rest of the ride. It’s a good idea to bring a gallon of water from home that your cat normally drinks. They can taste the difference, and this may result in some cats refusing to drink.

Don’t feed your cat for four to five hours before you leave to prevent throwing up . Your cat shouldn’t eat when the car is moving, either. There won’t be a problem with your cat having their food in the evening for a few days.

If you’re traveling in hot weather, bring a few ice packs or frozen water bottles in a cooler. Should your air conditioning go out, you can use these to keep your cat cool and prevent overheating. Cats can’t sweat as humans do, and it can cause them to get dangerously overheated. You can line your cat’s carrier with the ice packs wrapped in a cloth to help with the heat. For winter travel, bring extra blankets.

You want to keep a packet of your cat’s health and vaccination records in easy reach. Especially if you’re traveling over state lines. By law, you’ll have to have a health certificate from a veterinarian for every pet you transport over the state lines. Even though it’s unlikely anyone will ask you to see it, it’s always better to have everything ready than being sorry.

Regulations for Crossing State Lines With Your Cat

We won’t go into every regulation for each state since they all differ, but we’ll give you a sample of some of the required paperwork you’ll need. The complete list for every state is here .

• Arizona – Certificate of Veterinary Inspection that displays an updated rabies vaccination.
• New York – A Health Certificate is a must. And the certificate has to note that the vet’s exam revealed no evidence that the cat has any communicable and infectious diseases. The cat has to have a rabies shot within 12 months of the move date if they don’t have their three-year rabies vaccine. If the cat is under three months old, they don’t have to have the rabies vaccination.
• Ohio – Every cat must have a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection that indicates the cat has no diseases. Each cat has to have an updated rabies booster. Any cat you transport must have their own valid rabies vaccination certificate.
• Wisconsin – This state requires a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection that includes the last rabies shot date and when the cat needs another one. A licensed veterinarian had to administer the rabies vaccination.

Note: These regulations are current at the time of writing this article. We advise you double-check to ensure you have up-to-date information when you travel

Safety Tips for Traveling With Your Cat in the Car

There are a few great things you can do when you travel with your cat in the car to keep them safe. We’ve outlined the biggest ones below.

• Double-check the ventilation on your cat’s carrier to ensure it has a good flow of air.
• Create a cat-friendly travel bag with their food, water, bowls, medication, first-aid, disposable litter box, and documents.
• Never leave your cat alone in an unattended vehicle. They can get too hot or too cold very quickly.
• Cut your cat’s nails before you travel to ensure they don’t scratch on anything and tear.
• Size your cat’s harness to make sure it’s snug without being too loose or too tight.
• Secure your cat in the backseat of your car instead of in the front seat. The airbag deploying could hit the carrier and jostle your cat if you get in an accident.
• Always ensure your cat has detailed ID tags on them at all points of the trip.

How to Travel with a Cat and Find Cat-Friendly Accommodations

No matter how you travel, finding cat-friendly accommodations can be a hassle. Especially if you don’t do it ahead of time. However, a growing number of bed and breakfasts, hotels, and other places accept domestic pets like cats.

It’s a good idea to do your research ahead of time because there are places that won’t accept any pets. Or will only accept dogs. Additionally, some hotels have different setups for pets. And they charge more per night with the pet fee.

The pet fee can vary widely from hotel to hotel. To make it more complicated, places in the same chain might have different policies regarding pets. So you want to call ahead and double-check that the hotel’s fees are ones you can work with when you travel.

Where to Stay During Your Travels

Even though the accommodations can vary a lot, several chains are very consistent in their regulations and pricing for cats and domestic animals.

La Quinta Inns

You can find this hotel chain in Canada and the United States. It accepts domestic pets, and they usually don’t charge you extra for them. You have to bring the litter box, and they cap it at two cats per room. You can only take your feline outside of your room if they’re on a leash or in their carrier. It’s not allowed to take your pet into the breakfast room, pool area, fitness center, or laundry room unless it’s a service animal.

Loews Hotels

Many hotels in this chain accept domestic animals, and you can have two cats in every room. The pet fee starts at $25 per day, but it varies from hotel to hotel. You can’t leave your feline alone in the room, and they have to be on a leash or in their carrier when you take them outside. This hotel offers the “Loews Loves Pets Program” that gives people traveling with dogs or cats treats and bowls. There are pet walking and pet sitting services available. And they can furnish you with litter boxes, scratching posts, and beds.

Motel 6 allows all domestic animals to stay for free, but you can only have two cats in a room at a time. This chain doesn’t have weight or breed restrictions. When you check-in, you have to declare all your service animals or pets. Also, Motel 6 doesn’t allow you to leave your cat alone in the room. And it must be in a carrier or on a leash when you take them outside the room.

Websites to Help You Find Cat-Friendly Accommodations

If none of these hotels sound familiar to you, you may have to expand your search. I know some of the more rural areas I travel to with my cat don’t have the big brand hotel chains. Instead, they have lesser-known ones. I make sure I book in advance and use the following websites to find cat-friendly places to stay.

HotelGuides.com

This page centers around pet-friendly motels and hotels scattered throughout the United States. You can take advantage of the free pet check service on this website. It will page through whatever hotel you pick pet policy to ensure you get the most current one.

PetsWelcome.com

This website has a host of cat-friendly cabins, bed and breakfasts, cottages, motels, hotels, and inns. You can create a Passport Account on the site that details your preferences and needs. You’ll also be able to save routes and directions to this account. The site divides information up on the different hotels by state.

TripWithPets.com

You’ll gain access to 30,000 pet-friendly accommodations ranging from vacation rentals and bed and breakfasts to hotels and motels. This site covers both the United States and Canada, and it has both large chains and smaller hotels. You can narrow down your search by state or territory.

Safety Tips for Staying in a Hotel with Your Cat

• Never open your cat’s carrier until you have them safely in the room with the door shut in case they run.
• Cat proof the room before you let your cat out. Block every entrance to places you can’t reach like under the bed. Check for any items on the floor and wires.
• Usually, the best place for your cat to spend the night is in the bathroom. Put the litter box in the tub, and leave the crate in the corner. Your cat will feel more secure closed in. It’s also easier to clean if your cat spills something, and there are fewer items for your cat to get into.
• If your cat damages anything, deal with it right away and alert the front desk.
• Consider microchipping your cat before you travel. Double-check that your address and contact information is current. If it’s not, it won’t do anyone any good.

Bottom Line

We all know that traveling with your cat in any form can be a stressful time. But, if you’re like me, you love to travel and bring your cat.

I hope this guide can help you make the entire process easier and more enjoyable. With a little planning ahead, you can turn your pet into a seasoned traveler who is ready to go with you on all your adventures.

Also recommended:

• 7 Best Wood Pellet Cat Litters: Explore the Pros and Cons (2022)

Brian is a proud cat parent and animal enthusiast who lives in the Northwestern United States with two cats. In his spare time, Brian likes traveling around with his pets, exploring new places, and writing. Sharing what he learned over the years of cat ownership brings him joy, and the cats teach him something new every day.

2 thoughts on “How to Travel with a Cat: The Ultimate Guide”

Brian, Your information is very informative and helpful. Traveling with a cat in an RV is a real adventure. Some cats are very friendly and love to meet new people. Others are more introverted and frankly don’t like strangers. Thank you for all of your information.

Hi Elaine, you are very welcome! And you are right. Some cats love to go outside to explore the universe while others are afraid of anything behind the door of the house.

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30 best things about owning a cat

Posted: February 6, 2024 | Last updated: February 6, 2024

Thinking of getting a feline friend? These are the best things about owning a cat

Cats are everywhere, so what are the best things about owning a cat? There’s such a huge variety between the breeds, and every cat has its own personality. However, there are some shared feline characteristics that can’t fail to appeal. Not only as companions and household pets but also therapeutically, with astonishing benefits to both our physical and mental health.

Let’s take a look at some of the best things about owning a cat. 

Cats are a low-maintenance pet

Especially when compared with dogs, cats make our lives easy. They don’t require exercising and are usually independent – sometimes to the point of aloofness.

Cats lower stress

Stroking pets makes us release oxytocin, which reduces cortisol and can help us to feel less anxious. And a cat trumps all other pets in this regard, with their abundant furry coats being particularly soothing.

A cat’s purr

Wondering; why do cats purr? Extraordinarily, the purr has benefits for humans too. Not only does it soothe us, reduce anxiety, and make us feel happy, but its particular frequency of vibrations can increase bone density and reduce stress by relaxing our muscles. Wow. 

Mental health benefits

So many aspects of cat ownership help to reduce stress, from the sensation of stroking them to their therapeutic purr to the sense of purpose they give us in our daily life – without overwhelming us with responsibility. 

Rodent control

Cats are superb mousers. They are natural-born killers and have a predatory instinct to hunt down small animals such as mice and rats, and even insects in the home. Many people have a cat for just this purpose.

A peaceful pet

Yes, cats can be fairly vocal in their communication, but it’s mostly at a fairly low level  – compare a meow to a bark. Bar a crazy few minutes of self-exercise maybe once a day, they like to sleep a lot. 

You don’t need to stay at home all day

Cats tend to sleep for most of the day, while you’re out at work, as they are crepuscular, meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk. Happily for cat owners, this is the time that humans are most likely to be at home. And anyway, you probably need a cat’s companionship more than he needs yours.

They are relatively long-lived

Compared to many domestic pets, such as hamsters, guinea pigs and rabbits, at an average of 13-14 years, cats live for a decent chunk of a human life, and some even last until they are 20. The oldest recorded cat, Creme Puff, died at the age of 38. 

Prevent allergies

Given that cat allergies are the most common indoor allergy after house dust mites, this may come as a surprise. However, studies such as this one from the National Library of Medicine show that if a child is exposed in early life to cats, their immune system is more likely to overcome cat allergies and asthma.

Boost heart health

Thanks to cats being associated with the reduction of stress and blood pressure, several studies, such as this 2009 paper from the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Neurology , have shown that they are also connected to a significantly reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.

Cats might not be as needy as some other pets, but they do love to play. Find your inner child by blowing bubbles, playing hide-and-seek or setting up an edible treasure hunt.

Even if you’re “not a cat person”, you’d need a strong will to meet a litter of kittens and not want to take one home. So what stimulates this cute reflex? Studies show that we seek out the tactile sensation of their soft fur, as well as being neurologically wired to want to nurture baby animals.

Cats come in all shapes and sizes

From tiny Singapuras to huge Maine Coons, from Hairless Sphynxes to fluffy Persians, the pretty blue-eyed Birmans to the weird and wonderful Elf Cats, there are felines to suit every taste.  

Cat owners are smarter

A study carried out at Carroll University, Wisconsin, found that cat owners were more intelligent than dog owners! Whether the cat made them smarter, or smart people get cats, who knows?

Sneaky sleepers

Cats may look like they sleep all day, but they’re actually constantly on the prowl for prey, even when they’re napping. They are able to tap into both their auditory and olfactory senses while asleep, making them ready to pounce on any unsuspecting victim. 

The boost to your social media likes

Cats are extremely photogenic, and they know how to sit still, unlike some other popular domestic pets. With their expressive eyes and bodies, cats tap into human emotions, so they work brilliantly both for funny memes and beautiful portraits. Some famous felines have enormous social media followings.

Kids’ development

Pets are brilliant for helping children develop social skills and a sense of responsibility. They teach kids monumental lessons such as the circle of life, calmness, empathy, biology, patience, love and companionship, as well as helping reduce stress and being fabulous entertainers.

No need for a mansion

Cats don’t need a vast house and garden. In fact, some cats never go outside at all. Cats can thrive in a small apartment, and they’re also typically more welcome than dogs because they don’t bark every time someone walks past the door (don’t mention their yowling abilities). 

Cats aren’t too demanding on your time. Yes, they interrupt you when you’re working or on the phone. They love playtime. But they don’t require a two-hour walk every day, just a short amount of play and then “please leave me alone now”.

Naturally hygienic

Cats are by their nature very clean, and they fastidiously groom themselves with their barbed and very effective tongue, which has a form of antiseptic within the saliva. They are also typically easy to train to use a litter tray, in fact, their mom will usually teach them to use it.

Cats smell good

If you ever bury your nose deep into a cat’s soft fur, you’ll know how good they smell; sort of musky and sweet. They groom themselves meticulously, and their barbed tongue gets rid of the smells of their food trapped in their fur and whiskers (ostensibly to stop them being sniffed out by predators, however little this applies to your average house cat). The grooming also spreads their natural oils over their coat, helping them to stay silky and pleasantly scented. 

Polite eating and drinking habits

It’s beneath a cat to guzzle their food or slurp their drink. They tend to sip gently, and eat selectively. If you are among the fifth of the population who is disgusted by the sounds of chewing and related sounds, a cat is the perfect pet.

Economical on space

Cats are neat creatures who don’t take up loads of space. Yes, they love a stretch, but they are very partial to a tiny box, love curling into a tidy ball, and they won’t monopolize the couch. 

Financially sensible

Owning any pet is a big responsibility, especially on the finances. However cats have much lower running costs than dogs, requiring less food, one scratching post will suffice for a toy, and you don’t need to shell out for a dog-walker.

Personal space

Call them aloof, but sometimes a cat’s sense of protecting their personal space is an asset. We can’t always give our pets constant attention, we don’t want to play games all day long – sometimes we just want to get home and chill, with just a gentle purr nearby to soothe us.

Feline balance

Watch a cat walk along a wall or even a narrow railing, and marvel. The idea that their balance is thanks to their whiskers is an old wives’ tale and it likely has more to do with their incredibly flexible back, which allows them to twist and land on their feet should they fall. The tail, too, helps align the body and acts as a balancing stick. Plus the vestibular apparatus in their ears works in tandem with their eyes to give them their superb balance.

Cats have nine lives

If only this were true! The medieval proverb states: “A cat has nine lives. For three he plays, for three he strays and for the last three he stays”. This is probably due to their mythical status in ancient civilizations, and also the fact that we see them fall off a high wall or out of a tree and magically twist and land on their feet. Alas, however resilient and nimble they are, they are not indestructible.

Daredevil nature

Enjoy the sight of a cat walking along a railing, running up a tree, weaving in and out of traffic, jumping off walls, pouncing on unsuspecting victims, this is an animal that knows how to get its thrills and is pretty confident of its abilities. The stuntman of the animal kingdom.

The cat’s whiskers

If something’s  “the cat’s whiskers”, it’s better than anything. The jury’s out on whether the 24 or so feline whiskers really are superior to other animals’, but they have a finely tuned sensory function, being attached to nerve endings and muscles. Being the same width as a cat’s body, they allow cats to judge distance, and also detect vibrations for discerning their environment and potential prey.

A simply adorable pet

Cats may have their faults, but we‘re blinded by their total adorableness. Fluffy, soft and rounded; intelligent, with big, colorful, beautiful liquid eyes, and deep, rumbly, soothing purrs. This overload of cuteness affects us physiologically, with the orbitofrontal cortex of the brain (decision making) telling us to protect this adorable creature) combining with the nucleus accumbens (pleasure center) releasing dopamine. No wonder cats make us happy.

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FELIWAY Classic Cat Calming Pheromone Spray (60 mL)

1.8"L x 1.8"W x 3.8"Th

2 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

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About this item.

• FELIWAY is vet recommended, and the #1 selling solution: FELIWAY Classic may help cats adjust to challenging situations, and curbs stress related unwanted behaviors such as urine spraying, scratching, and general fearfulness
• 9 out of 10 cats show an improvement in urine spraying*
• FELIWAY Classic Spray makes vet visits, travel, new environments, and loud noise (thunder, fireworks, etc) less stressful for your cat
• FELIWAY Classic is a drug free solution that mimics cat’s natural facial pheromones, which may help your pet feel calmer in common stressful situations
• Great for on the go use, or spot treatment at home; you can spray calming pheromones directly onto objects such as your cat carrier or car (do not spray directly on your cat or his or her scratching post as it will deter scratching)

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Product details

• Is Discontinued By Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ No
• Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 1.77 x 1.77 x 5.55 inches; 3.2 ounces
• Item model number ‏ : ‎ 281011E
• Date First Available ‏ : ‎ November 22, 2015
• Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Central Garden & Pet
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B018BVZFG8
• Country of Origin ‏ : ‎ France
• #7 in Cat Relaxants

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Product description.

Is your cat peeing outside the litter box, scratching your furniture and carpet, or hiding on a regular basis? These behaviors may be caused by fear or anxiety. FELIWAY products are a vet recommended, drug free, and clinically proven to help alleviate many of the unwanted behaviors cat owners deal with. FELIWAY Spray provides “happy messages” by mimicking the natural feline reassuring messages (pheromones) to make cats feel calm and comfortable at home. This product has been found to reduce scratching, spraying, and hiding for 90% of cats, and many owners see results within 7 days. Cats are also very sensitive to change, so if you anticipate changes in the home (moving, renovation, recorating, new pets, new family members, etcs.), FELIWAY is very effective in helping your cats remain calm, and adapt to the changes without unwanted behaviors. If you are having issues with spraying (peeing), after cleaning urine-affected areas, spray FELIWAY directly onto the urine marks, as well as onto other prominent objects including furniture, drapes, window frames and doorways. This helps your cat to feel calm, and reduces unwanted behaviors caused by anxiety (like peeing outside the litterbox). This will also help them to stop scratching and hiding as well. Feliway Spray is completley safe for both humans, and your cat - it is odorless and colorless. Spray away the fear, and feel calmer today!

Important information

To transport your cat, spray the inside of the carrier or vehicle 20 minutes prior to transportation. To prevent urine marking and scratching in the household, spray once per day on the prominent objects that could be attractive to your cat.

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Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the product's ability to calm cats. They say it's incredible and helps to keep them calm. However, some customers feel the value of the product is low and the size is small. They also are disappointed with the smell, and durability. Customers have mixed opinions on effectiveness, quality, and scratching.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the product for its ability to calm cats. They say it is incredible how it helps ease the stress and anxiety of their pets. Some customers also mention that the product is very mellow and has an instant chill session.

"...It automatically made them more relaxed and they even got along better. Great product for introducing new animals into the house." Read more

"...It also helps my cat to calm down for a road trip to the vet. Both the cat and the dog rest better and are relax for the day or night...." Read more

"...This product calmed his agitated behaviors and his desire to spray, which had continued after his surgery...." Read more

" Cats are much calmer now when there is a lot of noise outside by neighbor ." Read more

Customers are mixed about the quality of the pet supplies. Some mention that it really works, while others say that it didn't work in the long run.

"...The spray does aerosolize a lot so be careful not to inhale it because it caused me to cough when I accidentally inhaled it...." Read more

"... Great product for introducing new animals into the house." Read more

" Didn't do much , smells slightly perfumy and made me sneeze.Maybe my cats weren't super into it...." Read more

"...He's more chill and more cuddly. Not spraying all the time now . He's also not as skittish around our dogs." Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the value of the pet supplies. They mention that the price of the spray almost doubled in two weeks. Customers also say that the product is not worth the money.

"...to use it too often, I need to find an alternative because it's too expensive . I sprayed it on her bedding and around the bedroom." Read more

"...The diffusers are expensive and since most of my wall plugs are occupied or behind furniture, they don’t help...." Read more

"...I spray her bed and it calms her down. This is the best product for the price . I will never run out of the best thing that works...." Read more

"...It’s a little pricey so I only use it when I catch him clawing." Read more

Customers are mixed about the effectiveness of the pet supplies. Some mention that there was less trepidation overall, less hitting, and there were no more fights. They also say that the effects are worth it, and that the product greatly improved their behavior. However, others say that it didn't really change cats attitudes, it had no effect on their cats, and made their cats somewhat catatonic.

"...I can really tell a difference in my cat. He's more chill and more cuddly . Not spraying all the time now. He's also not as skittish around our dogs." Read more

"...I can smell it. The cats shy away from it at first spritz . One actually took off out of the room! Kind of the opposite of I was hoping for...." Read more

"... Seems to work very quickly ." Read more

"... Behavior was not changed . I do not recommend this product." Read more

Customers are mixed about the scratching. Some mention that it works to stop their cats from scratching, while others say that it didn't work and their cats still scratched the areas that they sprayed it on.

"...All of them have stopped scratching on my new furniture , too...." Read more

"...collar I felt that it worked to calm her down but after 2 weeks she scratched , bit, and took it off...." Read more

"...They are very mellow. They've even calmed down on their scratching ...." Read more

"...It does seem to help with the scratching on furniture but it doesn’t calm him much or help with aggressive behaviors like biting and scratching...." Read more

Customers are not happy with the smell of the pet supplies. They say it has a terrible smell and stinks when first sprayed.

"...There is a slight smell to it , but it is not strong unless you directly smell the object that you sprayed it on" Read more

"...Yes, there is a bit of a strange odor but I don’t find that it lingers, and it beats the smell of cat pee...." Read more

"...Pleasantly surprised at the light, slightly floral, scent that dissipates quickly ...." Read more

"...I was able to detect a slight smell , but very subtle. However, no one peed in my room - not once - while the thing was plugged in & running...." Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the size of the pet supplies. They mention that it comes in a very small bottle, and that the package is small. Some say that the spray is smaller than they expected.

"This bottle is so small and they recommend you sprag the area multiple times a day...." Read more

"After my item arrived, it was smaller than expected ...." Read more

"...I thought it was expensive, and the spray bottle is TINY , but i have a big house, and i sprayed every room, and now she's letting me cuddle with her..." Read more

"...Also, be aware that this is a tiny bottle you are getting for this price. Like maybe an ounce. The bottle is about 2 inches high...." Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the durability of the pet supply. They say it wears off quickly, the bottles are used up quickly, and the effect seems to wear off after 2 hours. Customers also mention that the product works but requires reapplication every 24 hours.

"...But it also doesn't last as long . Both are less than 5 hours, so it's not a huge deal breaker.The thing is, cats are nocturnal...." Read more

"...I DO have to spray this all over the house twice a day, as it does wear off , but that's to be expected." Read more

" Runs out quickly ." Read more

"It worked amazingly on my vat kinda felt like it wore off quite fast . I used it for traveling for 5 hours in my cat, my cat was calmer than usual...." Read more

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Airport Week: Pets policy in place to keep RSW from becoming Wild Kingdom

Note to readers: The News-Press and Naples Daily News are providing special coverage of Southwest Florida International Airport. We are calling it "Airport Week." March is traditionally the busiest month of the year with more than 1,000,000 travelers expected to come and go through Fort Myers. Look for stories all week about RSW , including today's installment on the airport's pets policy.

If wasn't for some basic rules and regulations, Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) might be more like Wild Kingdom.

People love their pets. This means there are many pet owners who prefer to take their beloved animals with them on a trip instead of boarding them. And in Southwest Florida, a place knows for its snowbirds or temporary residents, people who will live here for months at a time, seeing pets at RSW is common.

On a recent Friday there seemed to be dogs in every direction you looked. Dogs being walked on a leash and dogs sitting patiently in the laps of their owners.

More: TSA tips: How to get through a security checkpoint quickly and efficiently

What is the pet policy at RSW in Fort Myers?

Here's what to know, according to the Southwest Florida International Airport's website:

The Lee County Port Authority rules and regulations on animals in the terminal at Southwest Florida International Airport is based on Lee County Ordinance No. 94-09. The rules and regulations do not apply to trained service animals used by an individual with a disability, as defined by Section 4.03.08(1)(d), Florida Statutes, or any law enforcement animals of a federal, state or local agency in performance of their duties.

For all other non-service animals, including emotional support animals, the following will apply:

• Non-service animals are not allowed in the airport terminal unless they are traveling with their owner/handler. If they are traveling, Lee County Port Authority (LCPA) requests the owner to have travel paperwork on-hand at all times.
• Non-service animals must be kept in a carrier, carried or restrained by a leash no longer than 5-feet long. LCPA requests the owner/handler to maintain control of their animal at all times while on airport property.
• If an animal exhibits aggressive behavior or poses a threat to the health and safety of others, the owner must immediately place the animal in a carrier or remove it from the airport terminal.
• All animals must be house-broken. The owner is responsible for cleaning up and reporting any mess left by the animal. Please note, there are designated  Animal Relief Areas  at both ends of the terminal building on the lower level (near the gazebo and loading dock) or across the street from baggage claim on the lower level near the parking garage. 

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Send Well Wishes to Kate Middleton

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have released a message in light of the Princess of Wales's cancer diagnosis.

In a statement shared with T&C , Prince Harry and Meghan Markle said, "We wish health and healing for Kate and the family, and hope they are able to do so privately and in peace."

The last time the Duke and Duchess of Sussex spent time publicly with the Prince and Princess of Wales was during Queen Elizabeth's funeral ; the foursome greeted mourners who had gathered outside Windsor Castle . Following King Charles's cancer diagnosis , Prince Harry flew to London to visit his father, but it was understood he did not see his brother during the trip .

Harry and Meghan's message of well wishes to Kate comes on the heels of King Charles and Queen Camilla 's message of support for her; a Buckingham Palace spokesperson shared that the King and Queen "will continue to offer their love and support to the whole family throughout this difficult time."

Kate announced her cancer diagnosis earlier today, in a video message that was recorded earlier this week:

"We hope that you will understand that, as a family, we now need some time, space and privacy while I complete my treatment," Kate said in the video message . "My work has always brought me a deep sense of joy and I look forward to being back when I am able, but for now I must focus on making a full recovery."

Emily Burack (she/her) is the Senior News Editor for Town & Country, where she covers entertainment, culture, the royals, and a range of other subjects. Before joining T&C, she was the deputy managing editor at Hey Alma , a Jewish culture site. Follow her @emburack on Twitter and Instagram .

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