kitten travel tips

• Cat Behavior
• Health & Care

How to Travel With a Cat: 14 Vet Approved Tips & Tricks

Image Credit: Svetlana Rey, Shutterstock

Last Updated on April 19, 2024 by Catster Editorial Team

VET APPROVED

REVIEWED & FACT-CHECKED BY

Dr. Amanda Charles

BVSc GPCert (Derm) MRCVS (Veterinarian)

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

Traveling with a cat can be rewarding, but it requires thorough planning. Whether you’re getting ready to drive a short distance and hang out with family or fly somewhere for a relaxing vacation, there are a few factors to consider when traveling with your cat.

Make sure to start the planning process early, particularly if you’re traveling internationally or are going to stay in a hotel during any part of your journey. Below, you’ll find 14 tips and tricks to make your journey with your cat successful.

• The 14 Tips to Travel with a Cat
• 1. Invest in a Good Carrier

Cats should always be restrained when riding in cars, and airports require them to stay in their carriers at all times (except during the security screening process). Airlines have several rules and regulations regarding traveling with pets, including guidelines regarding the size of carriers.

Make sure the carrier you use meets the airline’s regulations and requirements. If you’re driving, the sky’s the limit when it comes to the size of your cat’s mobile palace. Carriers should be sturdy, well-ventilated, secure, and easy to clean. Plastic carriers are usually the best options.

• 2. Give Your Cat Time to Get Used to Their Carrier

Because cats spend so much time in their carriers when traveling, they must feel comfortable in them. Consider leaving your cat’s carrier out so they can get used to it before your trip.

Letting your cat have dinner in their carrier a few times may encourage them to develop positive associations with their traveling home.

• 3. Invest in a Good Harness and Leash

If you visit a rest stop during a road trip, your cat should be harnessed and leashed when they’re away from their carrier to ensure they can’t run off and get lost if they become scared.

Make sure the harness you choose fits properly, and give your cat time to get used to wearing it so they’re ready to do so when you hit the road.

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• 4. Practice Everything

No matter how you’re traveling, your cat must be comfortable entering and exiting the carrier. If you’re flying, you’ll need to take them out of their carrier during the security screening process in the airport.

You can practice taking your cat out of the carrier when you’re around other people to make them more comfortable during the security check. If you plan on driving, consider taking your cat for a few practice rides to get them used to spending time in the car. Make sure to reward them for their cooperation!

• 5. Ask Your Veterinarian for Advice

Some easily stressed cats may benefit from medication to help them stay mellow while traveling. However, sedation isn’t suitable for all cats, and most airlines won’t transport pets who have been tranquilized or sedated.

• 6. Have Cleaning Supplies on Hand

Pack a bag with cleaning supplies and plan to have it close at hand while you’re underway in case your cat has an accident and you need to do a bit of on-the-fly cleaning. It’s best to pack paper towels or cleaning wipes, gloves, and baggies for disposal.

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• 7. Pack Toys and Blankets

Take a few of your cat’s favorite toys and a well-loved blanket that smells like home to keep them comfortable while away from their territory. Putting a favorite blanket in your cat’s carrier may make being on the road less stressful.

A stuffed toy might look a little different than a traditional cat toy but many felines find them quite enticing. The Hepper Plush Whale serves a dual purpose, featuring a faux fur exterior that mimics prey and a soft interior for cuddling during long cat naps when playtime is over. The best part about it is it's an affordable option for ages, sizes, and conditions. Learn more about why your cat needs a plush here!

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• 8. Consider Portable Litter Boxes

If you’re traveling by car , pack a litter box with some of your cat’s regular litter. Plastic poop bags and a scoop are also essential. If you’re staying at a hotel, check their pet policies thoroughly.

Most hotels that accept cats don’t provide litter boxes and litter. Collapsible litter boxes are ideal for shorter trips and can be folded down and packed.

• 9. Pack Food, Water, Treats, and Medication

If you’re traveling by car, bring enough of your cat’s regular food to keep them happy while you’re away from home. It’s also helpful (and usually mandatory) to pack food and water for your cat while flying, but some cats may be too nervous to eat until you land.

If your cat takes medication, pack enough to last them for your entire trip, and consider putting it in your carry-on luggage to ensure you have access to it even if your checked luggage takes a detour.

• 10. Consider Pheromones

Commercial synthetic feline pheromone products may help some cats stay calm while underway by reducing stress and creating a sense of safety and well-being. They’re available in sprays and wipes, so your cat can enjoy the benefits of calming pheromones while you’re on the road.

• 11. Check Your Cat’s Microchip Registration

Ensure that the registry where your cat’s microchip is registered has the right contact information. Losing your cat when you’re out of town is a nightmare, but an up-to-date microchip can significantly improve the chances of their return.

• 12. Collect Your Cat’s Medical Information

It’s vital to collect your cat’s medical information before you plan to leave and make sure you have a way to access it while you’re on the road in case they require veterinary care while you’re away from home.

Ensure you have all the documentation and certificates your cat needs to travel, including their vaccination status. Remember that the requirements vary based on where you’re headed and how you plan to travel.

• 13. Double Check Your Reservations

If you plan on staying in a hotel at your destination, contact the property ahead of time to ensure pets are permitted and get information about the rules and requirements that may apply. Don’t forget to inquire about the availability of litter boxes and food and water bowls.

• 14. Invest in Physical ID Tags

It’s best to attach an ID tag with your name and contact information to your cat’s collar. It will make it easy for people to reach out to you if your cat gets loose and makes a run for it.

Microchips are helpful , but lost cats need to be taken to shelters or veterinarians with scanners for their chips to be read. ID tags make the reunification process far more efficient; if your cat runs off, anyone who finds them can simply give you a call.

Traveling with cats can be stress-free with a bit of planning and preparation. Make sure to get started before you hit the road with your cat , particularly if you’re thinking about flying or staying in a hotel. Also, don’t forget to invest in an appropriate carrier and give your cat lots of time to get used to it.

• Hiking With a Cat: Is It Possible?
• Traveling With Kittens: Essential Tips
• https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/flying-with-your-cat
• https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/road-trips-and-car-travel-with-your-cat
• https://www.petmd.com/cat/care/8-tips-traveling-cat
• https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/traveling-your-pet-faq
• https://www.aa.com/i18n/travel-info/special-assistance/pets.jsp#:~:text=As%20recommended%20by%20the%20American,cardiovascular%20problems%20at%20high%20altitudes.

Featured Image Credit: Angels Relax CZ, Shutterstock

About the Author

Lorre Luther

Lorre Luther is a writer who is firmly convinced that cats are smarter than humans. She left her law career in the United States and moved to the Netherlands to follow her dream of becoming a writer. Lorre currently lives in Rotterdam, she enjoys traveling and greatly appreciates the beauty of nature. Lorre has a spot for animals and admires the intelligence of cats.

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

By Anna Borges

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

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.

Jessica Puckett

María Casbas

CNT Editors

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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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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Traveling With A Cat: Top Tips and Advice

Last Updated: October 5, 2021

Thinking about traveling with a cat? Adventuring with your cat can make the trip more fun and reduce your worries about leaving them with a sitter. Whilst we highly recommend leaving your cat at home with a sitter or friend or family member when you go on vacation, if your cat is more adventure prone or traveling with a cat is a necessity (ex. If you are moving), be sure to be prepared and plan carefully. Keep these tips in mind before you head off on your next adventure with your cat!

Traveling with a Cat Packing List

Food and Water: You’ll need to bring enough cat food for the duration of the trip plus a few days extra in case of delays. Cats don’t like to suddenly switch food. Do some research before you leave to see if their regular food will be available at your destination or take their food with you. We also recommend taking a few bottles of water to ensure your cat is hydrated throughout the trip. Your cat will most likely not want to drink or eat during the trip (don’t worry, this is normal) but make sure to stop and offer some food and water.

Treats: Taking treats with you is always a good idea no matter how comfortable your cat is with traveling. Pack their favorite treats and consider getting some CBD infused cat treats to help reduce your cat’s nervousness. Lickable cat treats like Catit Creamy also work great and can be offered to your kitty when you make stops.

Food and Water Dishes: Pop up water and food dishes, such as those from Dexas , are perfect for traveling and can be easily stored until needed. 

Carrier: When traveling with a cat, they will need to be in a carrier for at least some of the time, if not all of the time that you are traveling. If traveling by car, make sure your cat is secure in their carrier in the back seats of the car or considering putting a dog crate in the back seats, with lots of blankets and/or your cat’s bed to make a safe and comfy kitty chill zone. If traveling by plane, a carrier will be necessary whether they are travelling in the cabin or below the plane. A carrier will also make it easier once you get to your final destination and if you take overnight or longer stops during the journey as it can double as a sleeping place. 

Pee Pads and Disposable Litter Boxes: Consider lining your cat’s carrier with a pee pad in case of accidents and then line with a crochet blanket. If you cat does have an accident, the urine will soak through the holes in the blanket and onto the pad, therefore not completely soaking the blanket. You will also need a litter box for long stops and your final destination. Unless you are sure there will be a box and litter available, either pack a small litter box and enough litter for 2 litter box changes or consider a disposable litter box which will unfold into a litter box with litter already inside.  

Toys: Don’t forget toys when traveling! Your cat probably won’t want to play whilst traveling but putting a few catnip filled toys (we love P.L.A.Y’s cute and fun catnip toys) in their carrier can help calm and distract kitty. Bringing a few more interactive toys such as fishing wands can also help distract your cat at their final destination and help them adapt.

Blankets and Cat Bed: Make sure to bring some of your cat’s blankets and line the carrier with them. The familiar scent will comfort and calm them. Blankets will also help keep your cat warm, this is especially important if travelling with your cat by plane. If you have space or are making an enclosed cat space in your back seats, also bring along their cat bed or a cat cave. 

Collar, Leash and Harness plus ID tags: Even if your cat doesn’t wear a collar at home, when travelling, make sure they have a collar with an ID tag on. An extra tag with info on your final destination complete with the best contact number for you while travelling is also recommended. To keep your cat super safe and secure, also get them a harness/walking vest – if you need a harness, we highly recommend a Walking Vest from Sturdi – and leash. If your cat is leash trained, bringing their leash and harness also means they can take walks when you make stops. If your cat isn’t used to wearing a harness, put it on them at home in the weeks or even months leading up to the trip.

Cleaning and other supplies: In case of any mess, pack a pet-friendly stain remover, lint brush, and paper towels. Seat covers are also a good idea!

Medication, supplements and/or pheromones: Don’t forget your cat’s medicine and ensure you have enough for the trip duration plus a few days extra. A CBD product such as a tincture or treats is also a good idea to help relax your cat and consider using a pheromone product to calm your cat. Bringing a pheromone plug in for your final destination can help your cat adapt more easily to their new environment.

Health Certificate and Medical Records : Always take your cat’s medical records and vet card when traveling. A health certificate and proof of certain vaccinations will be required if traveling out of the country or even just across state lines. It’s a good idea to get the number of an emergency vet at your final destination, just in case!

Tips for Traveling by Car

Try to practice being in the car before the long trip: It’s a good idea to slowly get your cat used to being in the car before traveling with them. Start by turning the engine on so they get used to the sound before finally taking them on a short trip, extending the length of time in the car each time. Make sure they have something familiar in the car such as a favorite blanket and reward them with treats after each trip. 

Create an awesome cat friendly area in the back of the car: When traveling with your cat by car, always ensure they are secure in the back seats. If in a carrier, make sure they are secured with a seat belt. Or consider setting up the ultimate cat chill out area by securing a well ventilated crate (a small to medium sized dog crate works great) with a comfy pad in the back seats of the car. Complete your cat car oasis with their favorite blankets, bed (if there is space), and catnip toys from home.

Keep supplies in the front of the car: Don’t pack food, water, treats, toys, medicines or important documents in the trunk of the car. Keep them upfront so you can easily get them to your cat as needed.

Be aware of Car Sickness in Cats: Cats like people can get queasy when in the car. Talk to your vet before the trip about car sickness prevention methods, especially if your cat has appeared nauseous during or after previous car rides. Also, don’t feed them in the morning/before the trip, feed only once at your final destination or stopping for the night.

Keep your car clean: Traveling with your cat for long distances can result in some mess. Minimize this by using seat covers, keep a lint roller/ pet hair remover on hand, and paper towels and pet safe cleaning spray for cleaning up any accidents.

Tips for Traveling by Plane

Make a vet appointment: There are many rules on traveling with a cat by plane, especially if traveling internationally. Before you start making travel plans, get them checked out by a vet to ensure they are healthy enough to travel and meet all the requirements of your destination country. Get your cat’s vaccinations up to date and make sure they have all vaccines required for entry into your destination country.

Find a pet friendly airline: More and more airlines are allowing pets on board (yay) but call or email your airline before you book to make sure your best friend isn’t left behind. Some airlines allow you to add a cat to your booking online while others require you call. There will be a fee for bringing your cat and you will need to find out the airline’s weight/size requirements to see if you can bring them into the cabin or if they have to be in the hold (generally, cats over 10lbs will need to go in the hold.) If allowed in the cabin, they will count as one of your pieces of carry-on luggage and usually only one pet is allowed per passenger. We recommend booking as early as possible and flying direct whenever possible. Also print out the receipt showing you paid to bring a pet and/or any other proof that your cat was approved to fly to avoid issues at check in.  

Find an airline approved carrier: You may need to buy a new carrier to meet airline standards. The sizing for in cabin and below plane carriers will vary so always check with your airline but the standard is 19 x 10 x 12 for in cabin. Carriers cannot have wheels. In cabin carriers will also need to be soft sided ( Sturdi has a great selection of soft sided carriers) and below the plane carriers will need to be hard cased. To reduce stress, always get your cat used to their carrier before traveling, ensure blankets from home are placed in the carrier with them, and consider lining with pee pads or shredded newspaper (this is a requirement for some airlines if traveling in hold). Make sure carriers also have contact info labels including your name, home address, destination address, phone number, and an alternative/emergency contact. 

Select your seats with care: If your cat can travel in the cabin with you, consider putting more thought into your seat selection. Your cat will have to be under the seat so if you enjoy your leg room, considering upgrading to seats with extra leg room or even to business or first class if budget allows (always check with the airline that cats can be accommodated in all classes). Make sure not to choose exit row seats as pets are not allowed in these sections and window seats are the best choice so that you don’t have to move your cat or stress him out when your neighbor passengers need to move past him from their seat.

Prepare your cat pre-flight: It’s time to prep your kitty for their flight! Make sure to feed your cat well before flying and provide lots of water but take food and water away 2 – 4 hours before your flight. Also, make sure to get your cat’s carrier out at least a few days in advance (try leaving it open with blankets and catnip toys inside so they might choose to sleep there) as this will eliminate the stress caused by your cat seeing the carrier being taken out on the day of the trip.

Be prepared for check in and security: When traveling with your cat by plane, you will need to arrive at the airport a little earlier than if you were traveling alone (allow for around an extra hour) and you will have to check in at the desk. You will also need to be prepared for security as you will have to remove your cat from their carrier which will go through the scanner and walk through the metal detector with your cat. Ensure they have their leash, harness and collar with ID tags on at all times and make sure you have a good grip on their leash; if your cat escapes from your arms at security and you aren’t holding the leash, they are likely to run off and hide, making it extremely difficult to find them again. Lastly, make sure you have your cats health and vaccination records easily accessible in your carry-on bag. 

Make your cat comfortable in flight: If your cat is traveling in the cabin, board the plane as soon as you can to make sure you have time and space to set up your cat’s spot. Place their carrier under the seat in front and make sure you have any treats and toys they may want in flight with you. You won’t be able to take your cat out during the flight but reassure them by talking to them and very slightly opening the carrier to pet them or provide treats. Also consider covering their carrier with a cloth cover or blanket to minimize over-stimulation and reduce stress.

General Advice for Traveling with Your Cat

Research cat friendly places ahead of the trip: Before traveling with your cat, become familiar with cat friendly hotels or other accommodation at your final destination. If you plan to be out without your cat during some of the trip, make sure the place you stay allows your cat to be alone in the room (some hotels require you be with your pet at all times) or has the option of hiring a pet sitter. Don’t forget about check out either! Most hotels and other accommodation such as Airbnb require you to check out by 10am or 11am; whilst you may be able to leave your bags, you cannot leave your cat, so make sure they have somewhere to stay if you aren’t leaving your destination straight after check out. 

Make your cat as comfortable as possible at final destination or if stopping overnight: N ew environments are overwhelming and stressful for cats. Make them as comfortable as possible at their final destination by putting out items from home such as their bed, blankets, or favorite toys. If staying in accommodation with multiple rooms or if you have moved to a new house, keep your cat in one room to start with (ideally the room you will sleep in) and then slowly let them explore other rooms. Make sure to check on them and spend some time with your cat as well, so that they don’t feel abandoned. Always be sure to check over the room you are staying in before letting your cat out of their carrier for anything that could be dangerous to your cat or could allow them to escape. 

Know your cat: Cats like routine, their home territory, and  don’t enjoy change so most cats will prefer to stay home with a sitter when you go away. Whilst some cats are more prone to being comfortable with travel and there may be circumstances in which your cat has to travel with you, make sure to really think about your cat’s personality before planning a trip. If you are having second thoughts, find a recommended cat sitter, friend, or family member that you and your cat are comfortable with to take care of them while you are away. 

Do you have any top tips for making traveling with a cat easy? Let us know in the comments!

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The Ultimate Cat Travel Checklist: Essential Gear, Tips, and Advice for Safe and Stress-Free Trips with Your Feline Companion

Traveling with your cat can be a wonderful experience, but it’s not always easy. To ensure a safe and stress-free trip, you’ll need to plan ahead and make sure you have all the necessary gear, from carriers and crates to litter boxes and food. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive cat travel checklist and share tips and advice for preparing your feline companion for the journey. Whether you’re traveling by car or plane, domestically or internationally, read on to learn everything you need to know to make your cat’s next adventure a success!

Cat Travel Essentials: Carrier, Crate, and More

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Tips for Preparing Your Cat for Travel

Traveling with your furry companion can be a wonderful adventure, but it’s important to take the time to prepare your cat so they feel safe and comfortable during the journey. Here are some tips to help you prepare your cat for the trip:

Get Familiar with the Carrier If you plan on using a carrier, it’s important to have your cat get familiar with it beforehand. Leave the carrier open in your home and encourage your cat to explore it. Place treats and toys inside to make it more inviting. This will help your cat feel more comfortable when it’s time to travel.

Practice with Short Trips If your cat isn’t used to traveling, start by taking them on short drives to build up their tolerance. This will help them get used to the sensation and reduce the risk of motion sickness. Gradually increase the length of the trip until they are comfortable traveling for longer periods of time.

Familiarize Them with the Car Before you hit the road, allow your cat to explore the car while it’s parked. This will help them get accustomed to the environment and reduce stress levels during travel. You can also place a blanket or towel with their scent in the car to make it feel more familiar.

Pack Their Essentials Make sure to pack all of your cat’s essentials for the trip. This includes food, water, litter box, litter scoop, medication, vet records, health certificate, and toys to keep them occupied. Remember to bring more than enough supplies in case of any unexpected delays.

Use a Comforting Scent Cats are very scent-oriented animals, so it can be helpful to bring an item with a comforting smell from home. This could be a blanket, toy, or even a piece of clothing with your scent on it. This will help your cat feel more secure and at ease during the trip.

By following these tips, you can help prepare your cat for a safe and stress-free journey. Remember to be patient and understanding during the preparation process, as some cats may take longer to acclimate. With the right preparation, you and your furry companion can enjoy the adventure of traveling together.

Making Travel Arrangements: Choosing Pet-Friendly Transportation and Accommodation

When planning to travel with your feline companion, it’s essential to make travel arrangements that will accommodate your pet’s needs. Whether you’re traveling by plane, car, or train, choosing pet-friendly transportation and accommodation will ensure a safe and stress-free trip for both you and your cat. Here are some tips for making travel arrangements:

Research pet-friendly accommodations: Before booking a hotel or Airbnb, make sure the place allows pets. Some accommodations may have restrictions on the size or number of pets allowed. Look for hotels or rentals that offer pet amenities such as pet bowls, toys, and beds. Also, consider the location of the accommodation and check if it’s near a park or a place where your cat can stretch its legs.

Choose cat-friendly transportation: If you’re planning to travel by plane, check the airline’s pet policy to ensure your cat meets the requirements for flying and to know what documentation is needed. Some airlines only allow pets in-cabin, while others require them to be checked as baggage. If you’re planning to travel by car, consider getting a cat carrier or crate that will keep your cat secure and prevent it from becoming a distraction. Additionally, make sure your cat is comfortable with the carrier or crate by introducing it to the carrier or crate a few weeks before your trip.

Pack cat travel essentials: When traveling with a cat, it’s crucial to pack everything your cat needs. Bring enough food and water for the duration of the trip. Also, bring a litter box and litter scoop, toys, medication, and vet records. If you’re traveling internationally, check the country’s requirements for bringing pets and make sure you have a health certificate and any necessary vaccinations.

Consider your cat’s comfort: Traveling can be stressful for cats, so it’s important to take steps to make them feel comfortable. Bring a familiar blanket or bedding item that smells like home. Additionally, a cat harness and leash can give your cat a chance to stretch its legs outside and explore safely.

By making arrangements that cater to your cat’s needs, you can ensure that your furry companion remains safe, comfortable, and happy throughout your travels.

Traveling by Car with Your Cat: Dos and Don’ts

When it comes to traveling with your feline companion, car trips are often less stressful and overwhelming compared to flying or taking the train. However, there are still some important considerations and precautions you need to take to ensure your cat’s safety and comfort during road travel. Here are some dos and don’ts:

• Invest in a high-quality cat carrier or crate that is comfortable, spacious enough for your cat to move around, and secure enough to prevent escape or injuries in case of an accident.
• Don’t forget to put a comfy blanket or towel along with your cat’s favorite toy or treat inside the carrier to help them relax and reduce anxiety during the journey.
• Consider putting a litter box inside the carrier, especially for long drives, and train your cat to use it before the trip. If there’s not enough space, make sure to take frequent breaks to allow your cat to use the litter box and stretch their legs.
• Bring plenty of food, water, and treats for your cat, and feed them small portions throughout the trip to avoid overeating and throwing up. Make sure to pack spill-proof bowls and bottles and keep them within easy reach.
• Secure the carrier properly in the car to prevent it from shifting or sliding during sudden stops or turns. You can use a safety belt or straps or put the carrier in the back seat or trunk (if there’s enough ventilation and temperature control).
• Test your cat’s reaction to car rides before embarking on a long journey. Take short drives around the neighborhood or to a nearby park to see how your cat behaves and if they need any special care or attention.

Don’ts:

• Never let your cat roam freely inside the car, as they can get hurt, distracted, or lost. Always keep them inside the carrier or crate, no matter how well-behaved or trained they are.
• Don’t leave your cat alone in the car, even for a few minutes, especially in hot or cold weather conditions. Cars can heat up quickly and cause heatstroke or dehydration, or get too cold and cause hypothermia or frostbite.
• Avoid feeding your cat right before or during the ride, as this can trigger motion sickness and nausea. Also, avoid giving your cat any medication without consulting with your vet or following the dosage and the instructions carefully.
• Don’t expose your cat to loud noises, bright lights, or strong smells during the trip, as this can cause stress, anxiety, and sensory overload. Keep the car windows closed, use curtains or blinds, and avoid smoking or spraying perfumes.
• Never force your cat to travel if they are not feeling well or showing signs of illness, injury, or discomfort. Monitor your cat’s behavior and health throughout the journey and seek veterinary care if necessary.

By following these dos and don’ts and preparing your cat for the car trip, you can have a smooth and safe travel experience with your feline friend. Happy travels!

Flying with Your Cat: Airline Pet Policies, TSA Screening, and More

Flying with your furry friend can be a daunting experience for both you and your cat. However, with proper planning and preparation, it can be a manageable and even enjoyable experience. In this section, we will cover airline pet policies, TSA screening, and other aspects of flying with your cat.

Know the Airline Pet Policy: Before booking your flight, it is important to make sure that your airline allows pets onboard. If they do, familiarize yourself with their policies and regulations regarding pet travel. These policies may vary depending on the airline, so be sure to double-check everything. Some airlines may require that pets travel in a specific area of the plane, while others may have size or weight restrictions.

Contact the Airline in Advance: It is recommended that you call the airline well in advance of your flight to inform them that you will be traveling with your cat. You can confirm that your cat meets all their requirements and reserve a space for them on the flight. Keep in mind that most airlines have a limit on the number of pets allowed on each flight, so book early to ensure a spot for your furry friend.

Acclimate Your Cat to the Carrier: If your cat is not used to being in a carrier or traveling, it is a good idea to familiarize them with the carrier before the flight. Leave the carrier out in the open for them to explore and get comfortable. You can also practice taking short car rides with your cat in the carrier to simulate the airplane ride.

TSA Screening: When going through the TSA checkpoint, you will be required to remove your cat from the carrier and place both the cat and the carrier through the X-ray machine. You can hold your cat during the screening process, but be sure to inform the TSA officer that you are traveling with a pet. Also, keep in mind that you may need to remove your cat from their carrier during the security check.

In-Flight Essentials: When flying with your cat, make sure you pack all the essentials in your carry-on luggage. This includes your cat’s food, water, litter box, and any necessary medications. It is also important to bring cat toys or blankets to make your cat feel more comfortable and relaxed during the flight.

Choose a Direct Flight: If possible, it is recommended that you book a direct flight when traveling with your cat. This will minimize the amount of stress your cat experiences by reducing the number of take-offs and landings, as well as transfers between flights.

Final Tips: • Do not sedate your cat before the flight unless advised by your vet. • Attach a collar or harness with identification tags to your cat’s carrier. • Bring all necessary vet records and health certificate for your cat. • Check with your destination regarding any quarantine or pet regulations.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your cat’s flying experience is as stress-free as possible. Remember to plan ahead, pack appropriately, and make sure that your cat is comfortable and well-prepared for the journey. Safe travels!

International Travel with Your Cat: Health Certificates, Quarantine, and Other Considerations

Traveling internationally with a cat requires a bit more preparation and consideration than domestic travel. From obtaining necessary documents to navigating quarantine requirements, international cat travel presents unique challenges. Here is a guide to help you navigate the process and ensure a safe and stress-free trip for you and your feline companion.

Health Certificates and Other Documents Before traveling internationally with your cat, you will need to obtain several important documents. Health certificates are often required by customs officials, airlines, and other authorities as proof that your cat is healthy and up-to-date on all necessary vaccinations. The requirements for health certificates can vary widely from country to country, so it is important to research the specific requirements for your destination well in advance of your trip.

In addition to a health certificate, you may also need to obtain a import/export permit, a microchip certificate, and other documents. Some countries require a waiting period between the time the health examination is conducted and the time of travel, so be sure to allow enough time to obtain all necessary documents.

Quarantine Requirements Many countries require a period of quarantine for cats traveling from other countries in order to prevent the spread of disease. The length of the quarantine period can vary depending on the country and the health status of your cat. Some countries require quarantine at an approved facility, while others may allow quarantine in your own home or another designated location.

It is important to research the quarantine requirements for your destination well in advance of your trip, as failure to comply with these requirements can result in delays, fines, or even the quarantine or euthanasia of your cat.

Airline Policies and Travel Logistics When traveling internationally with your cat, it is important to research the airline policies and procedures for pet travel. Some airlines have restrictions on the number and size of pets allowed in the cabin or in cargo, and may require additional fees and paperwork.

In addition to airline policies, you will also need to consider the logistics of travel with your cat. This includes ensuring that your cat has access to food, water, and a litter box throughout the journey, as well as making sure your cat is comfortable and secure in their carrier or crate.

Preparing Your Cat for International Travel International travel can be stressful for cats, so it is important to take steps to prepare your cat for the journey. This includes gradually acclimating your cat to their carrier or crate, gradually introducing them to the sights, sounds, and smells of travel, and providing plenty of positive reinforcement and treats along the way.

In addition, it may be helpful to consult with your veterinarian about options for anxiety medication or other supplements that can help ease your cat’s stress during travel.

By following these tips and guidelines, you can help ensure a safe and stress-free international trip with your feline companion. Remember to also research cat-friendly accommodations and transportation options at your destination, and to pack plenty of cat travel essentials such as food, water, litter, and toys. Happy travels!

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Traveling With Cats [Your Ultimate Guide & 36 Game-Changing Tips]

Ever wondered about jet-setting with your beloved pet cat but didn't quite know how to go about it? Well, your worry ends here. We've tapped into the expertise of Sally Smith, the revered Founder and President of Companion Pet Enterprises. Together we have created a detailed guide for traveling with cats. We also bring you 36 invaluable tips shared by our community members over the years.

We'll cover topics like prepping your precious cat for car or plane travel and understanding the paperwork and health checks required for interstate or international travel. We will also provide practical tips on acclimating your cat to the carrier and making the journey comfortable.

But that's not it. We dive deeper into what professional pet transporters bring to the table, especially for more complex moves. Get insights into their licensing, security programs, and the whole gamut of services they provide.

Keep reading and uncover the wealth of information tucked away in this guide. Your cat's travel worries will soon be a thing of the past!

Traveling With Your Cat: Car Or Plane?

There are only two ways to move pets, by car or by plane. For interstate travel or travel to a neighboring country like Canada, your cat should first be examined by a veterinarian and have a health certificate issued prior to travel.

At border crossings, you may be asked if you have a certificate. If you are unable to produce one, they will hold you up a bit, while you answer all the questions as to why you were not prepared.

Traveling cross-country by vehicle requires quite a bit of time versus air travel. Some additional requirements for longer trips need to be considered:

Let Fluffy get acclimated and friendly with the cat carrier. Leave it open with bedding in it, in the room she is most comfortable in. Once the initial apprehension dissipates, kitty curiosity can take over.

If it looks inviting, is safe (meaning the door is propped open), and has treats inside, Fluffy should investigate it in her own time. If she does not, put her inside for a few minutes, then let her out.

Short interludes where nothing happens will help alleviate the fear of the carrier. Don't force her inside. If she shows any reluctance, stand the carrier on end with the door open and scruff Fluffy gently and lower her inside.

Close the door quickly behind her; gently lower the carrier to a normal position keeping her inside for just a few moments, then release her.

In order to prevent escape or accidents on the road, cats should always be transported in a carrier. To keep her calmer, if you are only going a short distance, you can alleviate some of the stress (if it is not a really hot day) and cover the carrier with a dark cloth.

How To Survive Long-Distance Travel With Cats

But for longer trips here are some easy tips to follow:

Planned Rest Stops

Stopping not only gives the driver a break, but also offers you the opportunity to check on your cat, and offer her the use of a litter box and a drink.

Before you open up the carrier, be sure all doors and windows in the car are closed. Let Fluffy out of the carrier, with the litter box on the seat or floor near the carrier, but don't be surprised if she won't use it.

Let her walk around a little bit before returning her to the carrier, but don't let her get underneath your seat where she will be hard to reach.

Time Your Trips

Plan to travel no longer than 7 or 8 hours (most cats can wait to relieve themselves for that period of time) and the box can be then offered in the safety of a hotel room. If your cat is prone to motion sickness, don't offer her any food while she is in motion.

Find Pet-Friendly Accommodations

Schedule your trip around hotels that accept pets. Call ahead of time to find out if the hotel or motel is pet-friendly. Several books and Internet sites serve as guides for pet-loving accommodations.

Have An Escape Plan: Keep identification tags on your pet. In the event of an escape, the person finding the cat will know whom to contact. Consider leaving a temporary tag with your cell phone number on it, just in case. Also, microchip your pet. Microchips provide universal protection.

Offer A Comfort Zone

If your cat dislikes auto travel of any length or tends to become car sick, speak with your veterinarian about using Dramamine or a similar product to control nausea. A product like Benadryl can make the cat sleepy without the dangers of tranquilization; however, do not use these products without your vet's recommendation.

Short & Sweet

Prior to the trip, take short trips with your kitty in the carrier around the block or to a local store. Plan to return home before the anxiety or motion sickness starts.

Travel By Air

Don't be surprised if you encounter difficulty booking your cat's travel. The Federal Aviation Administration has made security changes since the terrorist attacks that affect how pets are shipped.

Professional pet transporters have the necessary licenses to move pets with the airlines, but only a few airlines will currently still deal directly with the public. Depending on the airline, one or two cats may be allowed in the cabin as a carry-on or can be booked as excess baggage with you on the same flight in the cargo area of the plane.

Many people worry about the safety of their pets during air travel. According to airline estimates, nearly two million pets a year are shipped.

Each year there will be one or two well-publicized accidents to cause concern, but actual airline statistics report less than 30 animal injuries or deaths per year. Most accidents happen due to poor planning, improper crates, tranquilization, or human error. Sometimes things are truly an accident with no one to blame (unless the pet itself is to blame!).

Whether you have help from a professional or do it yourself, certain requirements for air travel need to be met.

Follow The Rules

An airline-approved shipping crate is required. For travel in the cabin, a soft-sided carrier may be used. But for travel as cargo or in the baggage area, the crate must be plastic with a metal door. It should be big enough for the cat to sit up, turn around and lie down.

The less expensive carriers are not the safest. The higher-priced crates are made of sturdier fiberglass, rather than plastic, and have stronger doors that will not fly open.

Each crate must be labeled with live animal stickers, consignee information, feeding instructions, and two dishes attached to the door. These are federal regulations that must be met.

Provide Timely Proof

Every cat needs a health certificate and proof of rabies vaccine. The Animal Welfare Act says the health certificate must be dated no more than 10 days prior to the trip. If it expires a new one will be required.

Say No To Drugs

The American Veterinary Medical Association and the Independent Pet and Animal Transportation Association do not recommend tranquilizing your cat for flying. It is now widely recognized that tranquilizers are the number one cause of illness and death in pets shipped by air.

Several airlines will now also refuse to accept a tranquilized pet. Better to have a pet soil the crate, but arrive safe and sound.

Travel by air is stressful no doubt, but healthy pets survive a few hours of travel quite nicely. Pad the bottom of the carrier with plastic diapers (padding turned up) to help absorb any accidents that might occur.

Weather Restrictions: Understanding Potential Delays

Excessive heat and cold can prohibit pet shipments. Each airline can put an embargo in place to prevent moving a pet when it is less than 45 degrees, or more than 85 degrees at either end or at any stop along the way if they will be exposed to these temperatures for more than 45 minutes.

Professional pet transporters and airlines must abide by these federal regulations. Therefore, even if you have your cat booked to go with you as excess baggage, temperatures may prohibit it from traveling on that day. This is for the health and safety of your pet.

Planning And Alleviating Travel Stress

Planning and common sense can alleviate most of the problems encountered when traveling with your cat. Fluffy may never love traveling, but you can help make it easier. For more complex moves the use of a professional pet transporter for air travel is not the least expensive alternative but maybe the best choice when moving the cat yourself becomes overwhelming.

The Benefits Of Professional Pet Shippers

Professional pet shippers are licensed by the USDA for interstate travel and have a TSA-approved security program. They will handle all the documents for arrangements with the airline and meet the FAA/TSA requirements.

Comprehensive Assistance: Before And After The Journey

If you must travel to the destination before you can send for your pet, oftentimes pet transporters can assist you with obtaining health certificates, veterinary requirements, or boarding.

They will be able to provide shipping crates as well as pick-up and delivery services from home to the airport.

A network of transport specialists may also even allow for a transporter to meet Fluffy upon arrival and deliver her to your new home. Most, but not all, transporters can assist with international relocations.

Navigating International Travel: Dealing With Unique Country Requirements

Each country has its own requirements for pets entering the country. In some instances, only a health certificate is required along with proof of a rabies vaccine. In other countries, it may be a long involved process requiring months of planning and or quarantine once Fluffy arrives.

These transporters are always knowledgeable about these rules and restrictions, after all, that is how they make their living.

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Keep Reading For Our 36 Actionable Tips Below!

Written by Sally Smith

Sally Smith is the Founder and the President of Companion Pet Enterprises, a pet transportation company and company dedicated to advising and helping others in how to move their pets both domestically and internationally. Smith is diversified in skills throughout the pet industry.

Working as a vet tech, animal groomer, and designing a pet care facility that offered all services in one fell swoop including pet transportation, she became the Director there for over 12 years. Her diversified background has allowed her to hold several positions among them serving on the boards for the New Jersey Veterinary Technicians and Assistants, the Independent Pet and Animal Transportation Assoc. and the American Boarding Kennels Association.

Her current clients consist of Microsoft, Johnson & Johnson, and Continental among others. She shares her experiences willingly and wrote this article in an effort to help all involved- the cat, the cat owner, and the transportation companies.

36 Actionable Tips By Our Members

Most cats are not good travelers. They like having their familiar established territory and couldn't care less about seeing the wonders of the Great Beyond. You're not very likely to ever come across a cat sticking its head out the window with its ears flapping in the wind...

But sometimes long-distance traveling with cats is inevitable. If a 20-minute car journey to the vet is a loud vocal nightmare, the prospect of spending long hours on the road with cats in the car can be absolutely terrifying.

Don't lose hope though. People do take their cats on long car trips and you can too.

Here's a collection of thirty-six tips, provided by TCS (TheCatSite.com) members over the years, that will help make road-tripping with cats safer and less stressful.

Expert Tips And Wisdom For Road Trips With Your Furry Friends

On calming composure: tip #1.

Embody tranquility. Remember, cats are astute in sensing human stress. Avoid displaying signs of distress, like raised voices, to ensure their comfort.

The Journey Adjustment: Tip #2

Patience pays. Your cat may need an hour or so to relax in the new environment. A little howling during shorter trips doesn't necessarily translate into a whole day's worth of commotion.

Familiarity and Routine: Tip #3

Habituation helps. Gradually introducing travel routines to kittens or young cats can ease them into long journeys. However, with older cats, avoid adding unnecessary stress with new training.

Securing The Path: Safety Measures For Road Trips With Cats

The carrier rule: tip #4.

Have your cats in a large carrier or dog crate during the entire duration of the drive. Having a cat loose in the car is dangerous to both cats and humans. Road safety first ! The driver should not have to deal with a cat squirming between the pedals or blocking the view of the windshield.

Harness And Leash: Tip #5

Cats should always wear a harness while in the car. Whenever they are removed from their crate or carrier, a leash needs to be securely clipped onto the harness. Train your cats to wear a harness in advance .

Window And Door Safety: Tip #6

Preventive measures are key. Keep cats securely harnessed and leashed before opening any doors or windows.

Rest Stop Routines: Tip #7

Cautious pit stops. Avoid letting cats out during stops unless they are well-trained to walk securely on a harness and leash.

Identity Protection: Tip #8

Have your cats properly ID'd. Their harness should have a name tag with your current mobile phone number on it. Microchipping your cat is also a good idea.

Medication Consultation: Tip #9

Prescription principles. Before medicating your cat for the trip, ensure you consult with your vet. Certain over-the-counter calming agents may not be cat-friendly.

Trial Runs For Medication: Tip #10

Homeward testing. In case of medicating as per vet advice, first, try it at home to check for any adverse reactions.

Ventilation And Temperature Control: Tip #11

Comfort in climate. Ensure your cats are placed in a well-ventilated area of the car, not exposed to strong winds or extreme temperatures.

Unattended Warning: Tip #12

Attention required. Never leave your cats unattended in the car, especially on days of extreme temperatures.

Crafting Comfort: Setting Up A Homely Environment For Cats

Crate comfort: tip #13.

Give your cats room to stretch and move around. Opt for very large carriers, and preferably dog crates.

Car Play: Tip #14

If possible, cage a section of your vehicle and make that into the kitty playpen. Just make absolutely sure no doors or windows in that area can be opened by mistake.

Multiple Cats: Tip #15

If you use large dog crates, you can place more than one cat in each crate, provided the cats get along well with each other.

Vertical Space: Tip #16

Make the most of the vertical dimension of the crate by hanging a cat shelf inside it.

Privacy: Tip #17

Drape a sheet over the cage or crate, leaving one side open. This will make the cats feel more secure, as well as protect them from direct sunlight coming through the car windows.

Accident Prevention: Tip #18

Line the crate with pee pads, in case you have any accidents. Carry extras with you.

Familiar Scents: Tip #19

Place familiar blankets and cushions in the crate.

Cozy Comforts: Tip #20

Place a worn tee shirt of yours in the crate for the cats to have your scent around them.

Calming Scents: Tip #21

Consider using Feliway  - spray the crates or use a diffuser in the car.

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Cat Toys: Tip #22

Take a few cat toys and rotate along the way. This is especially effective with kittens. Don't be offended if your cat avoids playing.

Road Tripping With Cats: Food, Drink, and Litterboxes

Cat entertainment: tip #22.

Many cats do not eat, drink, or poop while on the road. Don't be alarmed by this, and just patiently wait for your final stop at the hotel.

Disposable Litter Box: Tip #24

Keep a small disposable litter pan in the crate. You can use aluminum baking pans and bring along a supply that will last for the duration of the trip.

Handling Accidents: Tip #25

Have wipes and strong plastic bags handy at all times, to handle litter box accidents.

Water Bowl: Tip #26

If you keep a water bowl in the crate, make sure it's deep and put very little water in it. You want to avoid spillage as the car turns and sways.

Alternatives For Water: Tip #27

Consider training your cats to use rabbit water bottles prior to the trip. You can do that by using chicken broth (no onions or garlic in it!) and some water in the bottle or rubbing their favorite moist cat food near the tip of the bottle. If they learn how to drink from that, it's a great way to make water available without risking wetting the bottom of the crate.

Food & Water Timing: Tip #28

If you prefer, you can limit water and food and provide them only during breaks, once every 4-5 hours.

Car Sick Cat: Tip #29

If your cat tends to get car sick, it's best to avoid feeding 2-3 hours prior to travel. You can feed them at night at the hotel. Many cats don't eat and drink during car trips anyway.

Foods: Tip #30

Only provide food your cats are familiar with and tolerate well. This almost goes without saying, but don't try new treats or pamper them with expensive foods that they'd never tried before.

Beyond The Drive: Extra Tips For Road Trips With Cats

Planning accommodation: tip #31.

If your trip is more than a day long, plan ahead for accommodation. Many motels and hotels are pet-friendly, though some ask for extra fees. Most Super 8's and all Motel 6's are pet-friendly. Call in advance to make sure they have room for you and your kitties.

Travel Documentation: Tip #32

Have vet paperwork handy for crossing state lines or borders between countries. Papers are rarely needed for crossing state borders, but at the very least, have proof of your cat being current on her rabies shots.

Handling Cat Communication: Tip #33

Don't let the meowing get to you. Most cats meow like crazy when they get on the road. Most also settle down after an hour at the most and go to sleep. You need to focus on safe driving and ignore the cries.

Driving Sensitivity: Tip #34

Keep your driving relaxed. Don't overtake unless absolutely necessary and take it easy when pulling out. Remember that cats are sensitive to acceleration, deceleration, and sideways motions. Changes in altitude may also affect your cats.

Traveling With Company: Tip #35

If possible, travel with a passenger that can help you take care of the cats.

Safety Awareness: Tip #36

Make sure any travelers are fully aware of safety issues and know not to open any doors or windows unless all cats are properly secured.

Wrapping Up: Journeying With Your Beloved Feline Companions

Navigating the open road with your treasured feline friends doesn't need to be a daunting task. This comprehensive guide has empowered you with the essential tools and knowledge for a smooth and stress-free journey.

Armed with these actionable insights, you're ready for your road trip, ensuring an enjoyable and memorable journey for you and your feline companion. May every mile be a stride toward making precious memories, and may the road always lead you both safely home. Happy travels!

Comments? Leave them using the comment section below. Questions? Please use the cat forums for those!

Note: We may get commissions for purchases made through links on this page.

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Most cats are not particularly happy travelers - they are usually bonded strongly to their own territory and feel very vulnerable in a new environment. The rewards of staying with the family and heading off on an adventure does not excite the average feline in the same way as its canine cousins.  \

If you wish to take your cat on a train/car or air journey you will have to ensure your cat is safely and comfortably secure in an appropriate carrier and is kept confined at the end of the journey, at least until comfortable in the new environment. Of course you get the occasional cat that travels frequently with its owner and does not panic or run off in a new environment, however, these are few and far between.  

Traveling by Car

It can be very dangerous to have a cat loose in the car - not only could it cause an accident by becoming entangled with the driver, but if a window or door was opened or an accident occurred, the cat could escape and become lost.

You will need to invest in a carrier that is strong and easy to clean should the cat urinate, defecate or become sick during the journey. Also consider the weather you will be traveling in - both your present situation and the likely temperature of your destination. If it is likely to be very hot then use a carrier which allows good air flow - if it is going to be cold then one which can provide draft-free warmth while still allowing a good air flow would be useful. Place the carrier where it will be secure if you have to brake suddenly but where it has a good air flow - i.e. not underneath lots of other luggage in the back of the car. Do not put the cat in the trunk and take care with the rear of hatchbacks - ventilation may be poor and your cat may overheat. You can secure the carrier behind one of the front seats or use the seat belt to make sure it is held securely on the seat.

Check the cat regularly, especially if the weather is hot - don't underestimate how rapidly the temperature inside a car can rise - bear this in mind if you stop for a refreshment break and leave the cat in the car. Put the car in the shade and leave windows open - if it is very hot take a picnic and eat it nearby with the cat secure in its carrier outside the car or with all the doors open. Heat-stroke can be a killer.

Traveling by Train

Obviously if you are traveling by train you will need a very secure carrier which the cat cannot possibly escape from, but one which is also light enough to carry. You may want one with a solid base in case the cat urinates so that it does not soil the railway carriage. Line it with absorbent paper and material and take spare bedding too. You will probably be able to keep the cat in its carrier on your lap depending on the type of train and the space available.

Traveling by Air

If you intend to travel by plane with your cat then you need to plan well ahead.  Each airline has its own requirements and restrictions for traveling with your pet.  Many airlines now allow cats to travel in the airline cabin under the seat in front of you so make sure to check the dimensions of this space before you fly.  Soft sided carriers can work well for this location.  A trip to the veterinarian may also be needed before you fly if vaccination records or a health certificate is required.  Most cats do travel well but it is not recommended to send a pregnant cat or kittens under three months old.

Arriving at Your Destination

When you arrive, place the cat in one room and make sure it is secure, comfortable and cannot escape. Offer water and a little food although your cat may not be interested in eating until it settles in a little more. Meal feeding twice a day will encourage your cat to come back to you for food when you call. Gradually let it explore further and use food to ensure it does not go too far and returns for regular meals.

Using a Carrier

For cats the production of a carrier usually means a trip to the veterinarian so they are often not too keen to get into it! Take time to let the cat become accustomed to the carrier or travel crate well before the journey.

Make it a pleasant place to be - feed the cat treats inside it and make a cozy bed of familiar smelling bedding which can be used on the journey. Leave the door open and encourage the cat to go in and out and to sleep in it. Then, when it comes to the actual journey, the cat is at least familiar with its immediate environment.

If you have more than one cat it is better to give them separate carriers which allows better flow through of air, more room and less chance of overheating. Even the best of friends may become stressed during a journey and behave in an uncharacteristic, agitated way with each other; separate carriers will prevent any injury. If they can at least see and hear each other they may be comforted by that.

Withhold food for about four to five hours before the journey in case the cat is sick while traveling. Offer water up to the time you leave and again during the journey when possible. You can buy bowls which attach to cages so they are not spilled by the cat during the journey and are easy to fill without opening the cage should there be a delay during the journey.

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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How to Travel with a Cat: 18 Tips

The holidays are coming up and the matter of travel is at the top of everyone's mind. While you may be ready to throw everything into a backpack and catch a flight to see your grandparents or head out on a winter destination trip, what about your cat? Knowing how to travel with a cat can save on pet-sitter costs and help your cat enjoy the holidays from their favorite place in the world – with you. 

If you're not sure how to travel with a cat, you're not alone. Some cats travel very well (and some don't), but the best way to secure a positive cat traveling experience is to plan ahead. So, here are 18 tips that can help you and your cat travel happily together.

Preparing Your Cat for Travel by Land, Air, or Sea

No matter what transportation methods you are using, the following 10 tips will help any cat adapt to travel. Whether you’re flying with your cat, taking a road trip with your cat, catching a boat, or even carrying them in a bicycle basket.

1. Get Your Cat Comfortable with Their Carrier

• Turn your cat's carrier into a beloved cat bed before the trip, as long before the trip as possible. Place their favorite blanket or toys in the carrier and regularly feed them treats there. You'll be succeeding when your cat starts sleeping happily in the carrier on their own. 

2. Harness and Leash Train Your Cat (If Possible)

• If your cat will tolerate it (some will), harness and leash train them. This can ensure that your cat is safe and stays close by if you give them a chance to walk around or potty on the roadside. Do not simply clip a leash to a cat collar, many cats are collar escape artists! 

3. Update Your Cat's Collar Tags & Consider a Microchip

• Just in case, make sure your cat will be brought back to you in the event that they slip away. Update their collar tags, if necessary, and consider having your cat microchipped.

4. Take Your Cat to the Vet

• Check to make sure your cat is well enough to travel. Schedule a preliminary vet visit and full checkup. It is not advised that you sedate a cat, as this can put them at a health risk at high altitudes. 

5. Book Pet-Friendly Lodgings

• Book your hotels or vacation rentals based on pet-friendliness.

6. Fill the Carrier with Your Cat’s Favorite Things

• When preparing your cat's carrier for travel, fill it with their favorite things that smell like home. A favorite blanket, toys, and familiar items will help your cat feel at home during the travel experience. Don't forget to stow a litter box and extra sand, unless these are waiting for you on the other end of your travel.

7. Keep a Packet of Treats & Supplements Handy

• Cats love treats, and will stay calm more easily if you periodically reward calm behavior with treats. However, don't go overboard, it's best to keep a traveling cat's stomach closer to empty.

8. Feed Your Cat Early

• To reduce your cat's potty need, it's best to feed and give them water a few hours before you hit the road. Avoid over-feeding treats on the go, as cats can get motion sickness. 

9. Pack Bags and Wipes In Case of an Accident

• In case of potty accidents, be sure to bring a few plastic bags, baby wipes, and sanitizing wipes. Stuff happens! 

10. Exhaust Your Cat Before the Trip

• Finally, help your cat nap through the trip by playing with them to exhaustion right before. Do everything you can to run your cat around the house and have them flipping after the feather stick right up until it's time to load into the carrier.

Tips for Flying With Your Cat

If you’re traveling with your cat by plane, there are a few extra precautions that can ensure a happier flight for all. 

11.  Make Sure Your Cat’s Carrier is the Right Size

• Each airline has specific rules about how large your cat carrier can be and where you're allowed to stow it (usually under your seat). We strongly advise flying with your cat in the cabin with you, and some airlines may allow you to set your cat on your lap to reassure your cat along the way.

12. Favor Direct Flights Over Layover Routes

• Avoid layovers. Direct flights mean that your cat's travel experience is a single beginning-to-end process. This also reduces the chances that you'll have trouble hauling the carrier from one flight to the next.

13. Be Extra Nice to the Flight Attendants

• Flight attendants are ultimately in charge of whether your cat carrier can be on your lap and if you can temporarily let your cat out for a reassuring snuggle. Be extra nice and offer to let your flight attendants meet the kitty (if they’re interested) to win a more favorable situation.

14. Reassure Your Cat Whenever Possible

• Whether your cat is in your lap or under your seat, often reach out your hand to reassure your cat that you are still there and that they are safe.  

Tips for a Road Trip with Your Cat

Road trips with your cat are a different experience. You can stop more often, but are also 100% responsible for travel arrangements. A few more tips for the road: 

15. Harness Training is Very Helpful

• A cat who can walk on a leash (and do their business in a harness) is a much better road trip companion. You can explore rest stops together without worrying about losing your cat far from home.

16. Take Your Cat on Increasingly Longer Car Trips

• You can help get your cat used to the sensations of a road trip by taking them on short carrier trips in the car. Make the trips longer and longer until your cat starts to fall asleep in their carrier along the way.

17. Make Frequent Pit Stops for People and Pets

• Stop at rest stops with grass and dirt where your cat can do their business. Not only will this give you a chance to stretch your legs, it can also reduce your cat's anxiety, allow them to eat more often, and make the trip an overall more pleasant experience. 

18. Consider a Pop-Up Enclosure

• Finally, consider bringing a pop-up enclosure. These are nylon playpens with a mesh top so your cat can breathe fresh air and maybe even paw dirt without the risk of them jumping away. Enclosures are especially useful if your cat won't wear a harness.

Here’s to Happy Trails & Wagging Tails 

Whether you and your cat are taking a road trip or catching a flight, a little preparation leading up to the holidays can go a long way. With these tips, you can enjoy a pleasant trip with your cat and make the entire experience easier for everyone involved. 

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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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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 651,027 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 2 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 11
• 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 a Cat: Tips for Safety and Comfort

While some kitties do fine with travel, the majority don’t really care for it. After all, cats are creatures of habit. They don’t appreciate changes to their daily routine — and being placed into a carrier and transported through new sights, sounds, and smells is certainly a big change. Fear not, though. It’s possible to travel with your cat both safely and peacefully by planning ahead for their needs. Here are some things to consider when traveling with cats.

Is It Necessary for Your Cat to Travel?

The first thing to consider is whether or not your cat should come with you on your trip. 

Obviously, if you’re moving to a new location, it makes sense to bring your furry friend with you. But if you’re just going for vacation or seeing family over the holidays, consider whether staying at home with a trusted friend or professional pet-sitter, or even staying at a nice cat boarding facility, would be less stressful than traveling.

Your pet’s health is another consideration. If your kitty has any medical issues, ask your vet if they are healthy enough to travel, especially if traveling by plane. If someone is watching your cat while you’re away, make sure they feel comfortable administering your pet’s medications and know which symptoms to watch for.

Need a vet? Book a visit.

Traveling Internationally (Including Hawaii) With a Cat

If you’re traveling outside of the continental United States (or bringing your pet home after living overseas), you could be facing lots of regulations and paperwork. For some locations, the process begins months in advance — so it’s very important to check all the requirements well ahead of time.

Refer to government organizations such as the Department of State or APHIS (part of the USDA), or the embassies of foreign governments. 

Bond Vet is pleased to offer international health certificates for pets — if you're not near a Bond Vet, try calling local vets or consider working with a professional pet transportation company. 

What’s Required for Interstate Travel with a Cat?

Travel within the continental U.S. is much simpler than overseas travel in terms of requirements — but that doesn’t necessarily mean there’s no paperwork involved.

Check the requirements of your final destination, as well as any states you’ll be traveling through. Some require pet owners to carry health certificates and/or proof of rabies vaccination. 

How Will You and Your Kitty Reach Your Destination?

Much of the advice in this article is applicable to any mode of travel. However, buses, trains, ships, and planes have their own regulations, which may differ by carrier. Some don’t allow pets at all, and others have major restrictions, so it’s best to do your research. 

Try to have your pet with you (rather than in cargo or a separate kennel area) if at all possible, and be sure to have your pet’s reservation in writing.

Special Considerations for Cat Travel by Plane

Not all airlines allow pets, and many have restrictions on travel for certain breeds (especially short-nosed breeds like Persians that are more prone to heatstroke and respiratory problems), or restrictions on pet travel during hot or cold times of the year. 

Additionally, many airlines limit the total number of pets allowed in the cabin (versus the cargo hold) on any given flight. Book well in advance to be sure your pet has a spot, and get your furkid’s reservation in writing. And be sure to follow the airline’s rules for carrier types, sizes, and weights, and whether a health certificate is required. In general, airline rules are not flexible.

With all the complexities of air travel and certain risks (especially for pets traveling in cargo), it may be worth reassessing to see if driving is a better option. If you must travel by air, try to book a direct flight.

How Can Your Cat Be Identified?

A microchip — a permanent form of identification placed just under the skin using a small needle — is always recommended for identifying a pet. In fact, many countries require pets to be microchipped prior to arrival. 

If you’re not sure whether or not your kitty is microchipped — or whether the registered information is up to date — ask your vet’s office for advice.

ID tags, attached to a harness, can also be helpful. They can complement a microchip, because someone would be able to immediately see your contact information. 

Placing tags on your kitty’s carrier is also a good idea.

Which Supplies are Needed for Traveling With a Cat?

For convenience, here’s a handy packing list that would cover the needs of most traveling cats…

• All necessary paperwork, certificates, or health records.
• Any prescription medications your cat takes.
• A cat carrier . This should be big enough that your cat can comfortably stand up, sit down, lie down, and turn around inside.
• A harness and leash.
• Your cat’s food and fresh, cool drinking water, plus bowls for each. 
• A litter box, litter, scooper, and baggies for waste disposal. Or, use disposable litter boxes designed for travel.
• A comfort object, such as a familiar blanket or favorite toy.
• Paper towels to clean up messes such as vomit.
• Special accommodations for the weather, such as frozen water bottles in hot weather (which can be used to line a carrier in an emergency) or extra blankets in winter.
• A pet first aid kit.

Take extras of all supplies — enough to last for several days longer than you plan to travel, or enough time to get settled at your new destination.

Setting Up the Car for a Comfortable Trip

Set your cat’s carrier in the back seat , since the front seat can carry a risk of injury from airbags. Secure the carrier to the seat using the seat belt or bungee cords, so it won’t slide or fall during a sudden stop. Inside the carrier, use comfortable padding (ideally non-slip) or a blanket. 

If the carrier is large enough, you can place a litter box directly inside. If the box won’t fit, offer potty breaks every few hours in a confined space (inside the car after you are parked, or inside a family restroom that locks).

Leaving food and water inside the carrier isn’t always practical, since it can splash and spill while driving. But food and water should be offered at regular intervals. For day trips, it’s usually okay to wait until you reach your destination to offer food, but water should be available more often.

Avoid setting the carrier in direct sunlight, and make sure there is adequate air flow and ventilation.

Always keep your cat in the carrier while the car is moving to prevent dangerous scenarios such as distracted driving or a cat getting under the car’s foot pedals. 

Also, leave a harness on your cat at all times. Attach a leash any time you open the carrier. That way, if your kitty suddenly dashes out the door, you can grab the leash and prevent them from getting lost. But remove the leash when your kitty is inside the carrier, so they won’t become entangled. 

In the summer, travel at cooler times of the day , if possible. Use the air conditioner in your car. And never leave your pet unattended in the car , as the car’s interior can elevate to fatal temperatures within minutes! 

Minimizing Stress: Steps to Take *Before* Traveling with a Cat

With cats, it’s never too early to start planning for your trip. Beginning weeks to months ahead of time can make travel much easier. 

Get your cat used to their carrier and harness ahead of time. For the best results, start early, with small steps. 

For example, leave the carrier sitting out in the home. Place a toy or treats inside, so your cat begins to view it as a positive place to be. Follow similar steps for the harness, leaving it on for a few minutes while offering praise, toys, or treats.

Once your cat is used to the carrier, take your cat (inside the carrier) to the car, then back inside the house. Once they’re used to this, take them for a one-minute drive, then a five-minute drive, and so on — all while offering praise and positive reinforcement. 

While it may seem like a lot of work, these steps help prepare a cat to travel on the big day, which can make the trip much smoother and less stressful for everyone.

If these steps are taken at a young age, some cats can even grow to enjoy travel! Maybe you’ve seen some of these traveling kitties on Instagram. While they are the exception rather than the rule, it is possible to have a cat who loves going on road trips with their human companion!

Veterinary Visits Before Traveling with a Cat

It’s a good idea for cats to be up to date on their routine veterinary care prior to travel. Rabies vaccination is often required, and other vaccinations and parasite control can help a furkid avoid picking up certain diseases on a road trip. A checkup with routine bloodwork can also help ensure a kitty is as healthy as possible prior to travel.

Additionally, you may need to take your cat for a veterinary health certificate on a specific, narrow window of dates prior to your travel.

Are Sedatives Recommended for Cats Who Are Traveling?

Supplements or prescription sedatives may be a great option for some cats, especially during long car trips. However, sedatives can carry risks. In fact, airlines generally don’t allow sedatives since they affect a pet’s ability to regulate their body temperature.

The best option is to talk to your vet. They can let you know which medications are recommended for your individual cat and travel plans. Additionally, they can recommend anti-nausea medications for pets who get car sick.

Never give medications or supplements without checking with your vet, since many are not safe for cats!

Also, don’t wait until the last minute to ask your vet about sedatives . All kitties react differently to these medications. Some cats become more agitated! It’s important to do a “trial run” before the big day. 

Minimizing Stress for Your Cat *During* Travel

Stress is no fun for you or your furry friend. Additionally, some cats can develop health problems secondary to stress.

In addition to the steps recommended above, here are some things to try that could keep your kitty calm during travel...

• Use non-medical calming aids, such as Feliway wipes or spray (a pheromone product that signals safety) or a Thundershirt (a vest that mimics swaddling). 
• Keep things as calm, quiet, and dark as possible. Place a blanket over the side windows or over the carrier (as long as there’s adequate air flow). Talk in quiet voices, don’t slam doors, and keep the radio on low. 
• Try to be calm yourself, since pets can pick up on our emotions.
• Consider bringing a travel buddy. In addition to having someone who can stay with your cat during pit stops, this person can give your furkid attention while you drive.

Traveling Long-Distance with a Cat

Be sure to check all the recommendations listed above, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Look for pet-friendly accommodations and restaurants along the way. Consider making hotel reservations ahead of time during busy travel seasons, such as holidays.

Research emergency veterinarians along your travel route, too. That way, you’ll know what to do if your kitty isn’t feeling well. 

While travel can be stressful, a little planning goes a long way and can make your trip as enjoyable and peaceful as possible!

Better care, Right when you need it

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! 

Welcome to Global Kitten!

Discover the world's most cat-friendly destinations and travel tips with Global Kitten. Join our community of passionate cat lovers and explore the world with your feline companion like never before!

10 Vet-Approved Tips for Traveling With a Cat

Because the last thing you want to deal with is a cattitude problem! 🐱

You may be thinking to yourself, "Why should I even trust these tips? No one knows my cat quite like me." Well, you're right to question these 10 dos and don'ts, but you can rest assured that every one of these tips has come from a trained veterinarian. We've teamed up with Dr. Tricia Earley to get the inside scoop on traveling with your furry friend. You can consider Dr. Earley Country Living 's resident veterinarian who helps us separate fur facts from fiction.

Whether you're headed a few miles away from home or getting ready for a lengthy adventure, before you zip up that suitcase, we'd suggest becoming familiar with these 10 dos and don't when traveling with your cat. Many of these tips apply to car travel, but safety for your cat in any form of transportation is of utmost importance. You can never be too prepared, plus the last thing a trip needs is a nervous cat ready to dart at any second. With these must-know tips for traveling with a cat in your back pocket, you can leave the stress in the rear-view mirror. (Psst! We're sure you're going to want some cute snapshots with your pet so when you're in need of the purr-fect Instagram caption , we've got you covered.) Don't forget about Fido! We have tips for traveling with dogs too.

Do: Secure Your Cat in a Carrier

According to Dr. Earley, this is probably the biggest tip on the list, and that's why it's up first. When cats are frightened, they often try to squeeze themselves in tight spaces. This may be under the seat or under pedals, and that's the last thing we want while traveling.

Don't: Leave Mr. Whiskers in the Car

As with any living creature, never leave your cat in a hot car. They can't quite sweat like us. If the temperature outside is 70 or above, it's best not even to consider leaving your cat in the car. Even on a cool day, make sure you leave the windows cracked and your cat secure in their carrier.

Do: Anxious Cat? Have a Chat With Your Vet

Cats can be skiddish sometimes (hence the term "scaredy cat"). Some cats can't cope with the stress of travel. Before heading out on your adventure, have a chat with you vet about possible anxiety medication fit for your feline friend. Your veterinarian can offer helpful advice when it comes to deciding if your cat is a good candidate for anxiety medication or not.

Don't: Forget to Pack Some Cleaning Supplies

Accidents happen, and that's okay! Before heading out, don't forget to pack rags, napkins, odor-neutralizing solution, and other cleaning supplies for the ride. When nervous, some cats will mark their territory (even when it's definitely not theirs).

Do: Bring Your Cat's Usual Litter Box

Your furry friend is going to need somewhere to use the restroom, and unless you've miraculously trained them to use the toilet, don't forget to bring their usual litter box if possible. Your cat can smell if a litter box is their own, and this is where they'll relieve themselves.

Don't: Put Your Cat With Their Arch-nemesis

Just like some of us, cats like their space, especially when it comes to getting as far as possible from pets they don't get along with. If you're traveling with another animal that your cat doesn't get along with, try to create as much space in between them and their archenemy. After all, no one wants a trip filled with growling or hissing as background noise.

Do: Pack Their Fave Blankie and Toys

When traveling with a cat, make sure to place familiar bedding, blankets and toys in their carrier to help keep them at ease. According to Dr. Earley, cats are very particular about territory, which they establish with their scent. A familiar scent will help calm your kitty and make things seem less foreign.

Don't: Open the Door Unless You Know Your Cat is Secure

Before you open that door, make sure your cat is 100% secured, because chasing after your pet will definitely put a damper on the trip. A stressed cat will look for any shot at freedom, and it happens quickly.

Do: Bring Their Fave Treats

Every trip needs a lineup of your favorite snacks and that goes for your pet too! In addition to their food and water, make sure to pack your cat's favorite treats. Why? Well, treats always make things better.

Don't: Forget to Pack Some Patience

Dr. Earley says it best: "Don't forget to pack patience." Some cats love to travel, but many find it frightening. Your cat can sense your stress level so take some deep breaths and find your zen. You got this!

Chaise Sanders is an Associate Editor at Cosmopolitan , where she covers anything from lifestyle and beauty to entertainment and style. Wanna upgrade your skincare game? She's got you covered with the best facial cleansing brushes . Or maybe you're in need of a new true crime show to binge? Got that covered too! Prior to joining the Cosmo team, Chaise was an editor at Country Living (also part of the Hearst fam) where she interviewed celebs like Dolly Parton, LeAnn Rimes and even Martha Stewart. Now, as one of the Big Apple's newest residents, there's a good chance that you can catch her checking out an Insta-worthy cafe or spending way to much $$$ in vintage stores.

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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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How to Prepare a Cat for Air Travel

Last Updated: March 13, 2023 Approved

This article was co-authored by Russell Hartstein, CDBC, CPDT . Russell Hartstein is a Certified Dog & Cat Trainer and CEO of Fun Paw Care in Los Angeles, California. With over 25 years of training, nutrition, boarding, and daycare experience, Russell and the Fun Paw Care team provide the most current, humane, and science-based methods utilizing force-free positive reinforcement to train and care for pets. Russell is an author for PetMD, Chewy, and Dogster. He is also regularly cited in publications from various organizations, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). He is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant with the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants and a Certified Pet Dog Trainer. He received his bachelor’s degree in History and Economics from Binghamton University. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, several readers have written to tell us that this article was helpful to them, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 61,800 times.

Just like their human counterparts, cats can feel stress and anxiety when traveling. Removing your cat from her familiar environment can throw her for a loop. Therefore, you should put careful time and consideration into preparing your cat for air travel. Your extra effort will help make the travel experience less stressful for the both of you.

Preparing Your Cat for Air Travel in Advance

• Your veterinarian may need to complete a health certificate for your cat, certifying she is healthy enough for travel and has all of the required vaccinations. The health certificate requirements may vary according to your destination, so confirm these requirements with the airline before your appointment. [1] X Research source
• There are time restrictions on health certificate completion. Airlines typically require health certificates to be completed within 10 days of a flight, but confirm your airline's specific time restriction. [2] X Research source
• Ask your veterinarian to microchip your cat for easy identification. [3] X Research source If your cat is already microchipped, consider asking your veterinarian to scan the microchip to make sure it can be read.
• If your cat is on medication, ask your veterinarian about how you can continue to medicate your cat on your day of travel.

• A good cargo carrier should be made of sturdy and durable plastic and have a secure door latch. [5] X Research source
• Make sure the carrier is large enough for your cat to move around and be comfortable in.

• Leave the carrier open at all times in a location where your cat frequents, such as her bed or a scratching post. [7] X Research source This lets your cat explore her carrier at her leisure and without fear of you closing the door when she steps inside of it. If you don't want your cat to be fearful in a crate, then the cat needs to get used to the crate at times when they're not traveling in it.
• Consider spraying cat pheromones inside the carrier so it smells familiar to her. [8] X Research source
• Feed her in the carrier so she can have a positive association with it. [9] X Research source
• Practice closing the door when she is inside of it (after you've given her time to explore it). Start by closing the door for a few seconds, then opening it and immediately giving her a treat. Slowly increase the amount of you leave the door closed before opening it and giving her a treat. [10] X Research source
• Make sure you understand that the one month timeline is simply an estimate. Each animal is different, and your cat might need less or more time to grow accustomed to the carrier.

• Secure the carrier in the car with a seatbelt.
• Take your cat to a desirable location, such as back home — not the veterinarian’s office. [12] X Research source Give her a treat at the end of the car ride if she behaves well (no scratching or incessant crying).
• Staying still in the carrier while the car is moving may be a bit bewildering to your cat at first, but she will get used to it over time.
• Try to start the car rides at least a few weeks before your flight.

• You could also take her inside the airport, near the flight check-in area.
• Give your cat some treats to reward her for good behavior.
• Allow a few weeks for your cat to get accustomed to airport noises.
• If your cat is extremely fearful, it might be a good idea to provide familiar bedding to dampen the external noises.

• A cat’s nails should be trimmed once every 10 days to 2 weeks, so time the nail trimming so her nails do not become long again before the trip. [16] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source If you will be away from home for a long time, bring some nail clippers with you.

Making Other Travel Preparations

• Expect to pay an extra fee for your cat, which may be up to $100. Be aware that, if your cat can travel with you in the cabin, her carrier will count as one of your allotted carry-ons. [19] X Research source
• When you book your flight, make sure to get a locator number for your cat that is associated with your seat number. [20] X Research source
• Try to book a direct, nonstop flight. Also, avoid booking a flight for the middle of the day in the summer. [21] X Research source

• Place a label on the inside and outside of the carrier, in case the outside label comes off during the course of travel. In addition, if your cat will be traveling in the cargo hold, make a few large ‘Live Animal’ labels and place them on the outside of her carrier. [24] X Research source
• Make the labels at least a few days before your trip so you will not have to rush to do it on the day of travel.

Preparing Your Cat on the Day of Air Travel

• Once you put her in her carrier, she will not be able to eliminate again until after you arrive at your destination. Keeping things calm and normal will help her empty her bladder and bowels before you place her in the carrier. [28] X Research source

• Alternatively, you could try to find a flight that time that would fall within 4 to 6 hours of her regular mealtime.
• Once you have fed her before the flight, do not feed her again until after you arrive at your destination. You or the flight staff may have to feed her, though, if you have an international flight or a flight with multiple stops.
• Your cat can have water up to 1 hour before the flight. [29] X Research source

• If you must take her out of its carrier at airport security, keep a very firm hold on it.
• Ask the airport security staff if you can go through an alternative screening where your cat can stay in the carrier. [34] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source

Expert Q&A

• If your cat is prone to motion sickness, your veterinarian can prescribe some motion sickness medication for her. [36] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Do not place a lock on her carrier, in case you or the flight staff need to get her out of her carrier quickly. [37] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1
• Organized your cat’s documentation (health certificate, vaccination record, locator number, photo of cat) and keep it with you in your carry-on luggage. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
• Pets can become injured, lost, or even die in the cargo hold of a plane. [38] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source Avoid cargo travel for your cat as much as possible. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• Persian cats should not travel in the cargo section, since their facial structure can make it hard for them to breathe. [39] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• Do not put your cat through the X-ray machine at airport security. [40] X Research source Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0

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Expert Interview

Thanks for reading our article! If you'd like to learn more about traveling with cats, check out our in-depth interview with Russell Hartstein, CDBC, CPDT .

• ↑ http://www.drsfostersmith.com/pic/article.cfm?aid=187
• ↑ http://pets.webmd.com/features/pets-travel
• ↑ http://www.catster.com/cats-101/cat-air-travel
• ↑ http://www.banfield.com/pet-health-resources/pet-health-concerns/pet-safety-tips/a-guide-to-getting-your-cat-in-a-pet-carrier
• ↑ https://www.petfinder.com/cats/cat-problems/cat-hates-carrier/
• ↑ http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/traveling_tips_pets_ships_planes_trains.html?credit=web_id110483989#airplane
• ↑ http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/cat-care/cat-grooming-tips
• ↑ http://pets.webmd.com/features/pets-travel?page=2
• ↑ https://www.petfinder.com/blog/2013/05/flying-without-fur-flying/

About this article

To prepare a cat for air travel, purchase an airline-approved carrier and leave it out for a couple of weeks before the flight so your kitty can investigate it. On the day of the flight, feed your cat 4 to 6 hours before departure and avoid giving it any more food until you reach your destination. Then, place the kitty into the carrier and speak soothingly to keep it calm. Avoid giving your cat tranquilizers before your flight unless advised by your vet, since they can be very dangerous. For tips on preparing and labeling the carrier, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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13 Tips for Traveling in a Car With Your Cat

Cats and car travel can be a daunting combination, but there are ways to prepare for a road trip.

If your cat is anything like my first cat, car rides are screeching, howling, blood-curdling screams of agony until the destination is reached.

Longer trips across multiple states required sedation or she would become stressed and dehydrated from howling for hours. I limited the trips as much as I could, but here in the South a hurricane evacuation is sometimes unavoidable. Every single trip was stressful — probably more for me than my cat. My second cat loves his carrier and couldn’t care less about cruising in the car.

If you need to head out on the road and plan to bring Mister Floofikins, there are some car travel tips you can review.

The Carrier

The comfort and resources available within the carrier can make or break a trip when it comes to your cat’s comfort. Choose a carrier that allows your cat to stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably at a minimum.

Ensure proper ventilation is available on all sides of the crate with sufficient holes, mesh or a gate. Line the bottom of the carrier with an absorbent material in case of accidents. You can then cover it with a towel or your cat’s favorite blanket and toys.

Cats that are used to freely roaming and not used to being transported may throw a “Talk to the paw” up at the new carrier. Keeping the carrier inside with the door open will encourage your cat’s curiosity. Throw in a familiar material or some toys to entice Floofikins to check it out. Cats love boxes , and allowing them to enter and leave the carrier as they wish will (with any luck) not make them feel trapped when it is time to close the door and go for a ride.

If you have to make a stop to clean up an accident in the carrier, keep your cat in the carrier and try to look for a bathroom with a locking door and no escape routes (such as at a gas station). Once you are inside and are sure your cat can’t escape, feel free to open the carrier for cleaning.

It can be dangerous to let your cat roam free in the car while you drive. In addition to causing a distraction for you, your cat can get wedged in small spaces, find a way under the gas and brake pedals, or risk being jolted or thrown because of sharp turns or an accident.

Beat the Heat

Keep the carrier in an area of the car that will receive good air circulation. Avoid spots that will be in direct sunlight or cargo areas in the rear of the vehicle that might trap heat. Try to travel during months with milder temperatures when possible.

Do not leave your cat in the vehicle. If you stop, turn the engine off and take the carrier with you (or use a harness and leash if your cat is into that). Don’t leave your engine running either; it’s an easy target for thieves and you might lose your car and your cat.

The Supply Checklist

It is a good idea to determine what you need to bring before your trip so you’re prepared for any situation. Below is a checklist of items we suggest taking with you when traveling with one cat (increase quantities as needed for multiple cats).

• Food and snacks/treats
• Fresh water, preferably bottled or brought from home
• Clean cat litter
• Clean litter pan
• Brush or grooming tools
• Any medications
• Pet first-aid kit
• Extra collar and tag
• Extra harness and leash
• Extra blanket or towels to replace soiled materials
• Copy of vet records (3 copies)
• Picture of your cat (3 copies)
• An additional carrier that meets flight safety requirements in case you have to fly home unexpectedly

Triple the Paperwork

In the event of an unforeseen accident or circumstance, it may be possible that the carrier or your cat becomes separated from you. Permanently mark the carrier with “Live Animals” so observers will know an animal is inside. You may also want to permanently mark your contact information on the carrier.

When making copies of your cat’s records, make three copies:

• One copy stays in the vehicle.
• Another copy stays with you.
• A third copy should be placed in a weatherproof folder or plastic bag and secured to the carrier.

Keep a photograph of your cat with each copy. Also consider having your cat microchipped if not done already.

Accommodations

Don’t show up at a hotel or holiday home and expect them to welcome Floofikins with open arms. Many places do not allow pets, and ones that do may require advance notice, deposits or nonrefundable fees. Call ahead to check their policy or keep a list of pet-friendly hotels with you if you have to choose one while on the go.

Keep the litter box in the bathroom of your hotel room with a mat or towel underneath the pan to minimize mess. Make sure the food and water is separate from the litter pan as most cats will protest if they’re too close together.

Going Vertical

Some car trips will take you far from home, a state away or even across the country. If you are planning on being far from home, consider the possibility of having to fly home or to another destination in the event of an emergency. If you have a preferred airline, familiarize yourself with their pet policies before the trip.

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If you’re not sure where to start, check out our Airline Pet Policies help guide to get started. Print it out and take it with you to have airline contact information, pet flight preparation tips and an idea of the costs you may have to pay to fly your cat with you.

Secure the Slider

An unsecured carrier can slide, turn over or go flying depending on the movements of the vehicle. After placing towels, blankets or waterproof seat covers over the seats (if desired), use the seatbelt to secure the carrier from sudden movements. In the event of an accident, the carrier can be thrown about the vehicle. Taking this extra step will help keep your pet safe from unnecessary injuries.

For cats with motion sickness or severe anxiety, talk with your veterinarian about the options available to help your cat travel. Sometimes keeping cats out of view of the windows may help, while other cats might need a mild sedative. Other alternatives such as [easyazon_link asin=”B00016QT7Q” locale=”US” new_window=”default” nofollow=”default” tag=”p51capital07-20″ add_to_cart=”default” cloaking=”default” localization=”default” popups=”default”]Rescue Remedy[/easyazon_link] or Feliway may be recommended.

Practice Runs

Once your cat has had a chance to become accustomed to the carrier, consider taking a few practice runs. Short drives allow your cat to be exposed to the experience of riding in the car while in the carrier. Short trips, such as driving around the block or through the neighborhood, can be a starting point until you feel longer drives are possible and your cat is comfortable (plus this shows that not every car ride includes a vet trip).

If you aren’t able to fully prepare for a trip, try to keep your cat calm by remaining calm yourself. Check that you have the necessary supplies and safety recommendations prepared before departure.

Additional Tips

• For long trips, you can use larger crates that might fit a litter box inside. A covered litter box will help contain the litter. If this isn’t a feasible option, plan to make stops throughout the trip.
• Don’t feed or provide water to your cat just before a trip to avoid immediate potty breaks or an upset stomach. Removing food and water a few hours before the trip is generally okay, but check with your vet (especially if your cat has any medical problems).
• Leaving your cat in a vehicle with cracked windows is dangerous. Heat can rise rapidly in the vehicle or dangerous cold can get in and risk freezing your pet. If you have to leave the vehicle, take the cat with you.
• Use highly valued treats to reward your cat when training with a new carrier or after returning home from practice runs.
• Remove all food and treats from the car when the trip is over. Do not keep cat food in the car for long periods of time just to have it on hand; it can spoil from the elements or expire.

Traveling with your cat can be stressful, but it can also be a pleasant experience with a little planning.

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Protect Your Trip »

The 9 best airline-approved pet carriers of 2024 + tips from experts.

Find the purr-fect travel carrier for your favorite furry travel companion.

The Best Airline-Approved Pet Carriers

Courtesy of Sleepypod

Flying with your pet requires its share of homework. Regulations on bringing your pooch or feline aboard an airplane include providing updated paperwork as well as picking a pet carrier that adheres to baggage requirements and size restrictions . (For other things to consider when flying with a pet and advice from animal experts, jump to the tips section .)

If you plan to bring your cat or dog with you on your next flight but aren't sure which pet carrier is best – or allowed – U.S. News is here to help. Start with this list of the top airline-approved pet carriers for your jet-setting four-legged friends.

Best Overall: Henkelion Pet Carrier – Medium

• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓

Best Overall, Runner-up: Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier – Medium

Best expandable: petsfit expandable pet carrier – medium, best convertible: natuvalle 6-in-1 pet carrier – small.

• Best Pet Carrier Backpack: PetAmi Backpack Pet Carrier

Best Luxury: Away The Pet Carrier

Best compressible: sleepypod air, best for dogs in cargo: sportpet rolling plastic kennel.

• Best for Cats in Cargo: Petmate 2-Door Kennel

(Note: Prices were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors.)

What sets this carrier apart: Designed with airline approval in mind, the medium size of this traveler-favorite carrier accommodates cats or small dogs with its spacious interior. Mesh panels zip open on three sides of the carrier as well as the top, ensuring a well-ventilated bag. The outer material is a lightweight and durable polyester. A removable, machine-washable woolen mat makes the interior comfy for your pet; there's also a safety leash you can use to secure your pet inside.

You can use the connectable loop handles and padded shoulder strap for easy carrying, and this carrier bag folds up when you're ready to store it away. The Henkelion Pet Carrier even comes in several fun colors, such as purple or green.

Travelers appreciate: "I have used the Henkelion soft-sided carrier many times," says Robbie Parker of travel blog Expat in Paradise , who travels with his small dogs. "These are great carriers as they are hardy for travel, collapse for storage, and fit perfectly under the seat for in cabin travel. Also, I like that they have one side that is mesh and the other side is solid with a pocket. You can face solid side toward the aisle so people walking around the plane don't upset your dog." He adds, "Overall, I would recommend it for in-cabin plane travel."

Frequent traveler and luxury travel advisor Ashley Les, founder of Postcards From , also appreciates that the design puts her cats at ease when flying. "I find that with more mesh, cats are exposed to more light and sight – it gets them more anxious," she says, adding: "There are multiple ways to get my cats in the carriers, from the sides or above, as well. I love that you can take out the bottom to wash it separately."

Price: $28.99 or less for medium

Courtesy of Sherpa

What sets this carrier apart: Beyond a patented, crash-tested flexible wire frame that keeps your little buddy safe, Sherpa provides a Guaranteed on Board program that offers a refund for your flight and airline pet fee if you're denied boarding because of the small or medium sizes of this carrier. This mesh and polyester bag is an industry standard with good airflow. The front and top entries have locking zippers, and this collapsible carrier also features a removable (and machine-washable) faux-lambskin liner, a rear pocket for storage, and a seat belt safety strap that doubles as a luggage strap.

Travelers appreciate: This Sherpa carrier is renowned for its reliable functionality and amazing value. Recent travelers say the medium carrier fits well under the seat and keeps their pet comfortable in transit.

Price: $70 or less for medium

What sets this carrier apart: This Petsfit carrier's medium size adheres to most airline requirements (as does the small carrier). One of the mesh windows can be unzipped to form an extra compartment, expanding the carrier by 9.4 inches for an extended width of 20.4 inches. This product is a great option if you need a carrier for air travel but still want your pet to enjoy a bit more space to stretch out when not tucked under the airplane seat.

The sturdy solid wire construction ensures the bag won't collapse but is flexible enough to tuck into a small space, though you may need to remove the rods on either side if the carrier is too tall to fit easily underneath. There's a side pocket for storage, double zippers and a water-repellent inner cloth.

Travelers appreciate: "The Petsfit carrier was flexible enough to squeeze under most airplane seats, but still was sturdy enough to hold," says Alexandra Lauren of the travel blog The Bucket List Mermaid , who has used this carrier to fly with her cat. "My kitty could look around the airport with the built-in leash in the carrier. The expandable portion was an added bonus because it allowed for more room for my pet when on long layovers or when I had an empty seat on the airplane." Lauren also recommends Petsfit's expandable backpack-style carrier for a hands-free option.

Price:  $56.99 or less for medium

Courtesy of Natuvalle

What sets this carrier apart: For travelers seeking versatility, this Natuvalle cat or dog carrier can be used like a backpack, shoulder bag, tote with carrying handles or even – if worn on your front – a baby carrier. This convertible choice can also be used as a car seat crate with built-in seat belt loops, and you have the option of using it either in the upright or side position. Other features include zipper locks, mesh panels, reinforced stitching, two walk-through doors and a photo ID tag. The carrier is foldable and has reflective stripes for night travel. While there are medium and large size options, the extra-small and small sizes are your best bet when it comes to fitting under an airplane seat.

Travelers appreciate: Pet owners like the versatility of this bag; some travelers say the carrier fits best under the seat when on its side, as the upright position can be too tall.

Price:  $119.90 or less for small

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Best Backpack: PetAmi Backpack Pet Carrier

Courtesy of PetAmi

What sets this carrier apart: Go hands-free with this PetAmi backpack-style carrier. A sturdy frame maintains its shape while you traipse through airport terminals, with chest and waist buckles for extra support. Four-sided access makes loading easy, and a rollaway mesh top means your furry friend can stick their head out the top when you're not in the air. The safety strap and buckle are designed to thwart even great escape artists, and a sherpa-lined bed entices fur babies to relax. The backpack carrier color options include red and purple.

Travelers appreciate: Pet owners like the easy carrying this style provides, though they advise that you'll need to store this bag on its side in the plane cabin, and it won't fit on every airline.

Price: $39.99 or less

Courtesy of Away

What sets this carrier apart: It's a splurge, but this cat and dog carrier is made by Away, a popular luggage brand known for its sleek design and functionality. The same applies to this nylon and leather tote, which comes in black or a coast blue. The water-resistant lining is paired with sherpa bedding and exterior pockets that can hold a phone, keys or waste bags. If you already have an Away suitcase, this carrier will fit seamlessly over the handle with its trolley sleeve.

Travelers appreciate: Pet owners who travel with this bag like that it's roomy, saying their pets seem comfortable inside. This carrier fits pets up to 18 pounds but is a bit on the larger side of an airline-approved carry-on, so be sure to research your airline's policies before taking it aboard.

Price: $225 or less

What sets this carrier apart: The Sleepypod Air is designed to compress to fit under the seat during takeoff and landing; when the seat belt sign is off, your pet can enjoy slightly more room (but be aware that it doesn't hold its reduced size in a freestanding position, only when tucked into a small space). This unique carrier employs sturdy luggage-grade ballistic nylon for its base, with a panel of mesh running along the front, top and back. A removable privacy panel can be slid over part of the mesh. Available in multiple colors, this crash-tested model also has a seat belt strap, a trolley sleeve and a comfortable shoulder strap for carrying it.

Travelers appreciate: Users like the carrier's many features and say it's a good option especially for larger cats traveling by air, but some pet owners felt there was not enough airflow (especially with the privacy panel) for longer flights.

Price: $199.99 or less

What sets this carrier apart: Any furry friends larger than about 20 pounds will likely have to travel in the cargo hold if they're not a service animal. You'll want a very sturdy dog crate for the journey that meets every regulation, and SportPet's kennel passes the test for many travelers. This carrier meets International Air Transport Association guidelines with two snap-on water dishes and four stickers that indicate a live animal is inside; a "floor gutter" contains messes for easy cleanup. The durable plastic frame is connected with metal nuts and bolts and features airline-required tie holes for bungees.

This travel crate comes in six sizes, from small up to XXX-large, so be sure to determine the right size for your pet. A cushioned bed is not included and costs extra. For more information on pets traveling in cargo, consult the FAQ section at the bottom of this page.

Travelers appreciate: Pet owners like the sturdy construction and the compliance with airline regulations, but the traveler-favorite feature is the removable wheels, which are included with the carrier (except with size small).

Price: Ranges by size from $76 to $385

Best for Cats in Cargo: Petmate Two-Door Kennel

Courtesy of Petmate

What sets this carrier apart: This option made of hard plastic and steel wire is tough enough to protect your cargo-contained cat, according to recent travelers. (Keep in mind that airlines do not recommend hard-sided carriers for in-cabin travel, and this kennel is too large to fit under airline seats.) The two front and top doors assist with entering and exiting, and color options like hot pink or blue will make this kennel easy to spot. The carrier comes in small (24-inch) and extra-small (19-inch) sizes, so choose accordingly based on the measurements of your cat. As with most hard-sided crates, you will have to purchase a plush bed separately.

Travelers appreciate: "I haven't traveled by air with this carrier, but I've owned it for years and really appreciate how sturdy it is," says Catriona Kendall, associate editor of travel at U.S. News. "The assembly of the carrier is straightforward, and my cats feel safe enough to hang out in it at home."

Price: $66.99 or less for 24-inch

How to choose the best pet carrier

There are a few major points to consider when choosing a carrier that will serve as your pet's safe space during a flight:

Size: Selecting the right carrier size for your pet is essential not only for your pets' comfort but also for their safety, according to Sara Hogan, hospital manager at Clarendon Animal Care in Virginia. "Please ensure the measurements for your carrier meet a standard that allows for your pet to comfortably turn around AND lay down," she says. But be aware that if the carrier is too large for your furry friend, they could end up injured in transit. The best way to determine the right size is to take measurements of your pet; to be as precise as possible, use the IATA's formula .

Keep in mind that only carriers able to fit under the seat in front of you are allowed in the plane cabin – a space that will vary by airline. Consult the next section on airline policies for more information.

Airflow: Don't underestimate the importance of adequate airflow. "Carriers and crates really need to have proper ventilation for short or long-term travel," Hogan says. "There IS a difference between taking your pet down the street to a friend's house or the vet and taking your pet on a trip with any sort of additional time involved."

Stability: Check the quality of all the zippers and materials − you want this to be an escape-proof carrier, and any malfunction can put your pet at risk. "If something has previously broken or fallen off the carrier or crate look to replace the piece or the entire crate/carrier," Hogan advises.

Soft-sided vs. hard-sided: If your pet is small enough to fly in the cabin, most airlines highly recommend a soft-sided carrier, which gives the most flexibility. Airlines are often slightly more lenient with the dimensions for soft-sided carriers in the cabin as long as they are able to fit underneath the seat without blocking the aisle of the airplane. Another bonus: Soft pet carriers often come with removable fleece bedding for extra comfort.

Note: Crates and carriers destined for the cargo hold of the plane must be hard-sided. Find more details on carrier specifications for the cargo hold in the FAQ section at the bottom of this page.

Airline pet carrier dimensions

Each airline sets its own specifications and safety rules for pets in the plane cabin with you, so be sure to check with your intended airline for dimension limits, breed restrictions and other guidelines. Be aware, too, that most major airlines based in the U.S. do not offer an option to transport animals in cargo.

Use the links below to find more information on the specific pet policies for the following U.S.-based airlines. Each airline's size limit for soft-sided pet carriers in the cabin is also listed, with dimensions given in length by width by height.

• Alaska Airlines : 17 x 11 x 9.5 inches
• Allegiant Air : 19 x 16 x 9 inches
• American Airlines : 18 x 11 x 11 inches
• Delta Air Lines : 18 x 11 x 11 inches
• Frontier Airlines : 18 x 14 x 8 inches
• Hawaiian Airlines : 16 x 10 x 9.5 inches
• JetBlue : 17 x 12.5 x 8.5 inches
• Southwest Airlines : 18.5 x 13.5 x 9.5 inches
• Spirit Airlines : 18 x 14 x 9 inches
• Sun Country Airlines : 16 x 10 x 8 inches
• United Airlines : 18 x 11 x 11 inches

How to prepare to fly with a pet

Help your pet acclimate.

When preparing to travel with your furry companion, planning ahead is key, especially if your pet isn't used to being confined in a crate or carrier. "I recommend buying the carrier as far in advance of travel as possible to allow your dog to become comfortable relaxing in the carrier in a familiar home environment before traveling," says Amanda Farah, CPDT-KA, national training and behavior coordinator for Best Friends Animal Society.

Some pets are sensitive to loud noises, so one way to prepare them for the journey is by playing recordings of sounds they might encounter in transit, Farah says. "I'd say a good general rule is that because so much of what they encounter during air travel will be new and potentially stressful, you should familiarize them to many factors as possible in the weeks or even months leading up to travel."

Book your travel far in advance

Keep in mind that airlines limit the number of pets allowed on a flight, so book early and try to secure a direct flight to cut down on travel time.

Familiarize yourself with your departure airport

Before you set off on your journey, familiarize yourself with the airport you're departing from – such as where to find a pet relief area – and how to go through security with a pet in tow. For example, you must never place your pet on the security conveyor belt (only the empty carrier goes through the X-ray tunnel).

Research your destination

This is a crucial step. Some countries will not allow pets in at all, while other destinations (such as Hawaii) may have strict rules about rabies vaccines or require all animals to travel in cargo. Christine Barton, a veterinarian with The Vets , recommends checking the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service website to learn about requirements for health certificates, vaccines and more.

Other considerations will depend on what type of vacation you're planning; if it involves hiking or camping with your dog, Barton suggests checking the expected weather, making a small emergency kit for you and your pet, and considering a GPS tracker for remote areas. Wherever you're headed, locate the closest emergency animal hospital just in case and make sure to book pet-friendly accommodations .

Consult your vet

Once you've done your research, your veterinarian can help ensure your pet has everything you both need to travel, such as microchipping, required or recommended vaccines (and proof of them), testing, and health records, Barton says. A vet can also address any health concerns. "Doctors can discuss risks, precautions, and things to monitor while traveling," Barton explains, adding that you should make sure your pet is up to date on needed preventive medications, such as treatment for fleas or heartworm.

If your furry friend struggles with anxiety, your vet can prescribe them a medication to make the journey less stressful for both of you. "Talk to your veterinarian before administering any sort of medication to your pet, but definitely consider it for future travel," Hogan says.

Frequently Asked Questions

A carrier being "airline-approved" typically means it adheres to the airline's size requirements, is leakproof, provides adequate airflow and keeps your pet securely inside.

You can find a pet carrier on wheels, such as the  Snoozer 4-in-1 Roll Around Pet Carrier  or the  SportPet Rolling Plastic Kennel , but keep in mind that most wheeled pet carriers are too large to fit under the seat on most airlines, even with detachable wheels. Wheeled options can make your furry friend easier for you to transport, but they also tend to make for a bumpy ride for your pet, so consider carefully whether a carrier on wheels is right for your cat or dog, especially if they're easily frightened.

Most major airlines in the U.S. do not allow pets to travel in cargo; some, like American Airlines, only offer this service for active military or diplomatic personnel. Of the major U.S. airlines, only Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines currently accept animals in the cargo hold, so keep that in mind if you have a medium or large dog – or if your intended destination does not welcome in-cabin pets.

Most animals who fly in the cargo hold are fine, but there's still a risk of your pet being killed, injured or lost, according to the Humane Society of the United States. The most common dangers are excessively hot or cold temperatures, poorly ventilated crates, and rough handling. Be sure to follow all IATA guidelines for cargo crates to ensure your pet's safety. Before you book a flight, you may also want to research the airline's history with companion animals in the cargo hold.

The kennel you choose for cargo travel must allow your pet enough room to stand, sit upright, turn around while standing and lie in a natural position, according to the IATA. Carriers must made of rigid materials and include a solid roof, a leakproof base, a door with well-maintained hardware, working handles and ventilation on all four sides. Labels that say "Live Animal" and "This Way Up" are also required by the IATA.

A water dish must be securely affixed to the inside of the carrier, with open access for your pet to drink and for someone to refill it from the outside without opening the crate. A food container can either be inside the carrier if it's sealed or attached to the outside.

A pet carrier usually counts as either a personal item or a carry-on. Depending on the airline policy, you may be able to bring either a personal item or a carry-on bag (not both) in addition to your carrier. Check your airline's carry-on luggage allowance and pet policy to see what you can bring.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture requires puppies and kittens to be at least 8 weeks old to travel, but airlines may impose their own age restrictions on top of that. On Delta, for example, companion animals must be at least 10 weeks old for domestic flights. United Airlines says your pet should be at least 4 months old for international travel to comply with rabies vaccine requirements.

Your furry friend will incur certain fees for flying, but the cost will vary by airline. American Airlines, as an example, charges a $125 service fee for a carry-on pet, while Allegiant's fee is $50. Cargo fees may depend on trip details: Hawaiian Airlines charges $60 in fees for domestic flights and $225 for flights between Hawaii and North America, while the cargo fee on Alaska Airlines is $100. Service animals typically fly at no charge as long as they meet the airline's requirements.

It depends on your pet, according to Hogan. "If they're quite anxious you may want to offer food with a bit more advanced time prior to the flight to avoid vomiting in the carrier or on themselves, however, not too much time where they'll be hungry throughout the travel day," she advises. "Water is important to offer as often as possible in any setting. Access to using the bathroom more than once prior to travel is also advised so as not to miss an opportunity for output!"

Conveniently, some airports may have pet relief areas your dog can use either before or after you go through security, but that's something you'll have to research beforehand.

No. Unless your pet is a service animal of a certain size, airlines typically require pets in the cabin to be secured in their carrier and stowed under the seat in front of you.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Catriona Kendall is a frequent traveler and longtime cat owner who knows the importance of a sturdy and secure pet carrier. Her cats haven't managed to damage or escape from the Henkelion and Petmate carriers she's owned for years (despite their best efforts). She also recommends this pop-up Pet Fit for Life carrier for road trips. Kendall compiled this list of airline-compliant carriers using her experience as a pet owner, advice from animal experts and extensive research.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Carry-on Luggage Pieces
• The Top Luggage Trackers
• What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag?
• Can I Use My Own Airplane Seat Belt Extender?

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Flying With Dogs or Cats? These Are Airlines’ Pet Policies

American recently relaxed its rules for pets traveling inside the cabin with their owners. Here’s what the major U.S. airlines require to travel with a pet.

By Jesus Jiménez

Flying with a pet can be expensive and confusing, with fees, weight limits, carrier size rules and the need to make sure there’s no loud barking (or meowing) on board.

Recently, American Airlines relaxed its pet policy to allow passengers to bring a carry-on bag in addition to a pet in a carrier, and more private flight options have been emerging in recent years for pet owners who can afford them.

Still, flying with large or medium-size dogs can be tricky, and many travelers are wary of leaving a pet in the plane’s cargo hold.

For those traveling on the major carriers with their pets as carry-ons, here’s what to know about each major domestic airline’s policy.

Southwest Airlines

On Southwest, a Dallas-based carrier, two checked bags can fly at no cost, but not pets. Southwest charges $125 per pet carrier on its flights.

Dogs or cats are allowed to travel below a seat in an approved carrier — up to 18.5 inches long by 8.5 inches high and 13.5 inches wide — according to the airline .

Southwest has a few caveats for those traveling with pets: The pet must stay in its carrier during the flight, and the carrier is considered a personal item or carry-on bag.

Up to six pets are allowed on Southwest flights. Once six pets are booked onto a flight, no further customers may add a pet companion to their booking.

United Airlines

United Airlines has no weight or breed restrictions for cats and dogs as long as they are in an approved hard or soft-sided carrier, measuring 17.5 inches long by 9 inches tall and 12 inches wide for a hard carrier, or 18 inches long by 11 inches tall and 11 inches wide for a soft carrier.

United charges $125 each way for travel with pets. There is no fee for service animals on United flights, but some forms are required before the flight.

The carrier must fit under a seat, and where a passenger is allowed to sit can vary according to the type of aircraft. For example, people traveling with pets cannot sit in emergency rows. If you’re traveling with two pets (the maximum allotted), you are required to book two seats.

Delta Air Lines

Small dogs and cats can travel on Delta Air Lines flights as long as they can fit inside a carrier stored below the seat. The size of the carrier depends on the aircraft, but in general the airline recommends a soft-sided carrier no larger than 18 inches long by 11 inches tall and 11 inches wide.

Your pet must be at least 8 weeks old and small enough to have some room to move around in the carrier, which must have ventilation openings on three sides.

Delta charges $95 for pets traveling as carry-on companions, and the passenger can bring only one personal item along with the pet. Certain seats cannot be booked for travel with an animal, such as those in an emergency exit row.

American Airlines

American Airlines allows cats and dogs to travel in a carry-on container, which must remain under the seat in front of the pet owner throughout the flight. The airline recommends a soft-sided carrier that measures 18 inches long by 11 inches tall and 11 inches wide.

The fee for a carry-on pet on a domestic American Airlines flight is $150.

Flights are limited to seven carry-on pets, not including service animals, and American Eagle flights are limited to five carry-on pets, with one in first class. There is no charge for service animals flying on American flight, but the airline requires forms to be filled out in advance.

The airline said in a statement that it had recently changed its cabin pet policy to allow customers with a pet to also bring either a personal item or carry-on bag stowed in the overhead bin (but not both).

“We made the change to provide a more convenient and comfortable experience to customers whose pets fly American,” the airline said.

Spirit, JetBlue, Frontier and Alaska

Spirit allows dogs and cats on its flights in a carrier no larger than 18 inches long by 14 inches wide and 9 inches tall for a fee of $125. The weight of the pet and the carrier cannot exceed 40 pounds, according to the airline .

Small dogs and cats can fly on JetBlue for fee of $125 each way , in an approved carrier. Up to six pets are allowed on JetBlue flights.

Frontier allows pets on board for a $99 fee each way, as long the pet fits in a carrier. Passengers can have only a personal item or carry-on in addition to their pet carrier.

Pets can travel in a carrier on Alaska Airlines flights for a fee of $100 each way. A passenger can travel with a pet carrier and a personal item, or a carrier and a carry-on bag.

Private or charter flights

Those who take their pets on private or charter flights, which can cost many thousands of dollars, have much more leeway. Dogs that weigh less than 150 pounds can sit on seats.

BarkAir, a charter operator tailored specifically for those flying with dogs, charges about $6,000 for a dog and its owner to travel, with flights between New York and Los Angeles and New York and London. Carriers are not required, and dogs can sit on laps, seats or beds.

Jesus Jiménez covers breaking news, online trends and other subjects. He is based in New York City. More about Jesus Jiménez

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Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

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Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

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Is Southwest about to end its free-for-all seating?

The company says it is ‘very seriously studying’ alternatives to its signature open-seating system.

Southwest Airlines fans know the drill: Check in to your flight exactly 24 hours in advance and secure your spot in line to board the plane. What seat you’ll end up in? That’s a mystery until the last minute.

A puzzle to some and an invigorating challenge to others, Southwest’s unique boarding process and one-class cabin are now under the microscope as the airline looks for ways to prop up its financial performance. In a call with investors Thursday, Southwest CEO Bob Jordan said executives are “very seriously studying” seating and the way passengers board the planes.

“It’s been several years since we last studied this in-depth, and customer preference and expectations change over time,” Jordan said. “We are also studying the operations and financial benefits of any potential change.”

Unlike most airlines, Southwest doesn’t have a premium section on its planes that commands higher fares. Where other carriers might charge extra for a cushy seat in the first few rows or an extra-legroom option near the front, Southwest customers can grab whatever seat is open. A spot near the front won’t come with any additional frills, however.

In a news release announcing quarterly earnings, a conference call discussing those results and an interview with CNBC , representatives said they were taking a deep look at customer preferences around seating and boarding. The current open-seating system was put in place when airliners were generally less full, the company said, noting that preferences change as planes fill up.

“There’s no decision, there’s nothing to report other than we are seriously looking at this,” Jordan said in response to a question about seating. “But early indications both for our customers and for Southwest look pretty darn interesting.”

While Southwest has contemplated the possibility of assigned seating for nearly two decades at least , the review has accelerated over the past six months, the CEO said. Jordan said the company will say more during an event for investors in September. The company has also recently said that it is preparing to add red-eye flights in the next couple of years.

Today, Southwest passengers can pay more to end up in a better seat, even without picking that seat in advance. Upgrades that provide priority boarding and early check-in give customers the first pick of spots. The airline makes “hundreds of millions of dollars” from those upgraded boarding options, executives said last year.

“They’re in kind of a pickle regarding revenue generation, so they’re looking at everything,” said Robert W. Mann, a consultant and former airline executive. “I think what they have seen is that when they’ve tweaked their existing cattle call … they find it to be very lucrative.”

He said that if the airline could deliver a more “pleasant” boarding process, or seat selection for a fee, it would probably be attractive to travelers.

“There’s nothing about their boarding process that they couldn’t improve,” Mann said.

Travel analyst Henry Harteveldt, president of Atmosphere Research Group , said he did research more than a decade ago that found a large number of people avoided Southwest because it did not offer extra-legroom seats, assigned seats or a premium business-class cabin. He said that the airline could make “an enormous amount of money” by adding assigned seating — and that travelers would probably welcome knowing what seat they would end up in.

“I think it could be an incredibly positive thing for the airline, but I recognize that Southwest has a more-than-50-year history of being egalitarian, of having open seating and being different from other airlines,” he said.

More on air travel

Leave flying to the pros: Think you could land a plane in an emergency? Experts say you’re wrong . Here’s what you should actually do if something goes awry during a flight .

Pet peeves: Why do “gate lice” line up early for a flight ? Psychologists explained for us. Another move that annoys airline workers: abusing the flight attendant call button . For more on how to behave on a flight, check out our 52 definitive rules of flying .

Plane mess: Stories about extremely disgusting airplanes have been grossing out travelers. The question of plane cleanups became the subject of a recent debate after a flight attendant allegedly told a pregnant passenger to pick up the popcorn spilled by her toddler.

Frequent flying: Airline status isn’t what it used to be, but at least there are some good movies and TV shows to watch in the air. And somewhere out there, experts are trying to make airline food taste good.

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Venice’s Tourist Fee Is Now in Effect — What to Know

The fee is in place for day-visitors over 14 years old from 8.30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Stacey Wreathall/Travel + Leisure

Day visitors to Venice on Thursday had to pay to get in as the famous city started implementing the much-talked about day trip fee.

Travelers hoping to explore the Italian city had to pony up €5 ($5.36) per person at the train station. The fee, which was first floated as an idea in 2019 but postponed several times , will initially be in effect for 29 days and cover most weekends through mid-July.

“We need to find a new balance between the tourists and residents,’’ Simone Venturini, the city’s top tourism official, told The Associated Press . “We need to safeguard the spaces of the residents, of course, and we need to discourage the arrival of day-trippers on some particular days.”

The dates the fee is in effect were displayed on large signs at Venice’s main train station on Thursday, the wire service reported, with separate entrances available for tourists, and residents, students, and workers.

The fee, which is in effect for travelers over 14 years old from 8.30 a.m. to 4 p.m., can be paid online . Day visitors who pay in advance receive a QR code, which they must then show to officials at Venice's main access points.

On Thursday, the AP noted there were stewards available to help travelers unaware of the new rules to download the QR code and pay.

Tourists who are staying overnight will not have to pay the new day fee, but must apply online for an exemption . Overnight guests who book a hotel stay are already subject to a different tax.

This fee is the city’s latest effort to address overtourism. In January, Venice built on that goal by announcing plans to limit the number of travelers allowed on tour groups to no more than 25 people. That rule will apply to Venice’s historic center as well as the popular islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello.

These efforts come months after UNESCO spared Venice from its list of world heritage sites in danger once again despite recommendations to add it.

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• The First MICHELIN Key Hotels: All the Keys in the United States

The MICHELIN Guide announces top honors for U.S. hotels in 2024.

Hotels NYC California Washington D.C. MICHELIN Keys

New York City by The MICHELIN Guide

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On April 24, 2024, the MICHELIN Guide revealed the brand new list of One, Two, and Three Key hotels in the United States. In this first ever announcement of MICHELIN Keys in the United States, hotels in Atlanta, California, Chicago, Colorado, Florida, New York, and Washington DC were eligible for the distinction. This announcement of the most outstanding hotels in the country comes four years into a comprehensive refresh of our hotel selection. The MICHELIN Guide now includes over 5,000 hotels across the world, and not a single one is simply a room for the night. These are places that significantly add to your experience as a traveler, each vetted and judged excellent in five categories: architecture and interior design, quality and consistency of service, overall personality and character, value for the price, and a significant contribution to the guest experience in a particular setting. Which brings us back to the Keys. The culmination of countless hours of evaluation by our team of experts, the Key hotels below represent the highlights of our broader selection. Like the MICHELIN Stars for restaurants, the MICHELIN Keys are our most outstanding hotels. In total, the 2024 MICHELIN Guide hotel selection in the United States includes 11 Three Key hotels, 33 Two Key hotels, and 80 One Key hotels. Want to know more about the MICHELIN Key? Here’s everything you need to know . Or, head below to look at all the Keys.

How To Look Through the List

Jump straight to the list or take a deeper dive into select key hotels..

Take a peek at SingleThread, the five room inn with Three Keys and Three Stars. Explore the one street in Chicago that leads to seven Key hotels. Or find out more the Cliff House suite at our only Three Key hotel in Big Sur, California. Subscribe to our newsletter for more like this.

Highlights of the United States 2024 Key Hotel List

The Three Key Club in New York City

Expect: The highest luxury and impeccable design in Soho, Midtown, and the Financial District. Within the small club of Three Key hotels in the United States, four make their home in New York City. The Aman New York (Midtown) and Casa Cipriani (the Financial District) both make use of glamorous Beaux Arts buildings, the former a gold-crowned skyscraper in Midtown, the latter a glamorously restored ferry terminal at the very southern tip of Manhattan. Each is a refuge: an elegant, painstakingly designed escape from bustling city life. Meanwhile, two Firmdale hotels round out the list of Three Key hotels in New York City. Each is a quintessential example of the style and execution of the group’s co-owner and interior designer, Kit Kemp. Click the links here to explore the whirl of colors and collage of art that define the Crosby Street (Soho) and the Whitby Hotel (Midtown). Also read: Every Three Key Hotel in Paris

Jewels on the Coast: Up and Down California

Its sheer breadth of size and variety means it’s no surprise to announce California as the state with the most Key hotels in America. Here, we’ll point you towards coastal gems like the sublime architectural achievements in Big Sur ( Post Ranch Inn and Ventana ), beachside luxuries in Santa Monica (in particular: the newly opened Georgian ), and wine country favorites like SingleThread and the Madrona . What we love: how each one of these hotels opens the door to the very best of their locations — and gives us a look at each setting through fresh eyes.

Across America: The Golden Age of Celebrity

Our French Keys bask in the tradition of ancient vineyards, stone chateaus, and historic palaces. In the United States, we see a different tradition. In Los Angeles, places like Chateau Marmont , the Paramour Estate , Sunset Tower , and the Charlie date back to guests and residents as illustrious as Clark Gable and Marilyn Monroe. These are spaces that play ingeniously with their history, even as they forge ahead with cutting-edge amenities and experiences. But it’s not just California. New York’s historic artist hotspot, the Hotel Chelsea , once hosted Bob Dylan and Andy Warhol. Today, it decorates every space with art donated by former residents. Look too to the Chicago Athletic Association , a former member’s club for 20th century business magnates and athletes — now among the city’s most impressive and vibrant hotels. Also read: Hollywood Glamor at the First Key Hotels in Los Angeles

Click below to jump to each distinction: 

The three key hotels.

California (Beverly Hills):  The Beverly Hills Hotel, Dorchester Collection California (Big Sur): Post Ranch Inn California (Healdsburg): SingleThread Inn California (Los Angeles):  Hotel Bel-Air, Dorchester Collection California (Rutherford):  Auberge du Soleil, Auberge Resorts Collection California (St. Helena):  Meadowood Napa Valley California (Woodside):  Canyon Ranch Woodside New York (NYC):  Aman New York New York (NYC):  Casa Cipriani New York New York (NYC):  Crosby Street Hotel, Firmdale Hotels New York (NYC):  The Whitby Hotel, Firmdale Hotels

NEW: New York by The MICHELIN Guide – expert insights on where to dine, stay and explore

The two key hotels.

California (Beverly Hills): L'Ermitage Beverly Hills California (Beverly Hills): The Maybourne Beverly Hills California (Beverly Hills): The Peninsula Beverly Hills California (Carmel Valley): Bernardus Lodge & Spa California (Big Sur): Ventana Big Sur California (Guerneville): The Stavrand California (Healdsburg): Montage Healdsburg California (Healdsburg): The Madrona California (Laguna Beach): Montage Laguna Beach California (Montecito): Rosewood Miramar Beach California (Napa):  Milliken Creek Inn & Spa California (San Francisco):  Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco at Embarcadero California (San Francisco):  The Battery California (Sausalito):  Cavallo Point Lodge California (West Hollywood): Chateau Marmont California (West Hollywood):  Pendry West Hollywood California (Yountville):  Bardessono California (Yountville):  North Block Washington D.C.:  Rosewood Washington, D.C.   Washington D.C.:  The Jefferson Florida (Miami):  Mayfair House Hotel & Garden Florida (Miami Beach):  Faena Hotel Miami Beach Florida (Miami Beach):  Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club Florida (Miami Beach):  The Setai Miami Beach   Illinois (Chicago): Pendry Chicago Illinois (Chicago):  The Langham, Chicago Illinois (Chicago):  The Peninsula Chicago New York (NYC): Hotel Barrière Fouquet's New York New York (NYC):  Nine Orchard  New York (NYC):  Pendry Manhattan West New York (NYC): The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel New York (NYC): The Fifth Avenue Hotel New York (NYC):  The Mark Hotel

The One Key Hotels

Washington D.C.

Hero Image: Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection — Aspen, Colorado

In Photos: Every Three Key Hotel in New York City

The ins and outs of the most outstanding hotels in the city.

The Most Outrageous Design Hotel In Miami

The Faena Miami Beach is a Two Key hotel with a $15 million gilded woolly mammoth.

A Brief Guide to All the Key Hotels in Washington D.C.

Seven hotels earned at least one MICHELIN Key in Washington D.C.

Keep Exploring - Stories we think you will enjoy reading

Inside the Top Suite of the Only Three Key Hotel in Big Sur

The so-called "Cliff House" has the views you're looking for.

SingleThread: The 5-Room Inn with Three Keys and Three Stars

Revered for its Three MICHELIN Star restaurant and biodynamic farm, the SingleThread Inn earns Three Keys for its tiny, food-driven hotel.

Inside the Top Suite of Three Key Aman New York

The Aman Suite — among the most impressive suites in New York — brings the city to you.

The Guilty Pleasures of the Chicago Athletic Association

The One Key Chicago Athletic Association has had an illustrious and sometimes sordid history that dates back to 1893, when it wasn’t quite a hotel. A lot has changed since then, but the ghosts of the past are never far away.

Eaton DC Is a Launchpad for Progress

Katherine Lo’s Eaton DC isn’t just one of the best hotels in the United States capital. It’s also a headquarters for activism, community, social justice, and sustainability. And it’s not shy about it.

Key Street: Michigan Ave. Leads to 7 Key Hotels in Chicago

A brief guide to all the MICHELIN Key hotels in Chicago.

Hollywood Glamour at the First Key Hotels in Los Angeles

A brief guide to all the Key hotels in Los Angeles, Santa Monica, and Beverly Hills.

Chef Rob Rubba's Indefatigable Commitment to Sustainability

A Glass Act.

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What to know for booking summer travel: Expert tips on airfare, destinations and more

Where to score flight deals during the prime summer travel season.

As the surge of summer travel draws near, the race to book a great vacation is on.

"If you're looking to travel domestically within the U.S., I think you should be booking now for summer travel," Clint Henderson, travel expert and managing editor of The Points Guy, told "GMA."

Earlier this month while reporting quarterly earnings, Delta Airlines CEO Ed Bastian projected "record advance bookings for the summer," telling CNBC that the carrier's credit card data and bookings show customers are highly interested in air travel.

An increase in budget airline routes that has created more competition, paired with an easing of the post-pandemic revenge travel surge, means travelers could see more deals.

"Overall prices are down from where they were when we just had that boom out of the pandemic," Henderson said. "So things are more reasonable."

Hopper, the flight booking app, has shown predicted fares for flights to Europe will be down 10% in price from the same time last year.

Google recently announced its top 20 trending summer destinations , which saw a few newcomers on the list and Paris rose to the No. 2 spot.

With the Olympics taking place there from July 26 through Aug. 11, an uptick in airfare and hotel pricing is expected during the Games.

But those willing to wait out the Olympics could find big savings for flights to the host nation.

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The Points Guy has featured deals from Atlanta, Dallas and Charlotte to Paris for as low as $515 from August through the fall.

Amsterdam, Prague, Spain and Iceland are among the most reasonably priced European destinations, as seen on Hopper.

Tips for booking summer travel

Don't forget to stay flexible with travel dates and keep midweek in mind for possibly lower fares.

There's also a time during the post-summer rush known as "shoulder season," between September and October, when fares could drop by as much as 30%.

When it comes to airfare purchase timing, the experts at The Points Guy have found prices dip eight to four weeks before the outbound flight, but after the one-month mark, prices will creep back up.

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