travel on plane with cat

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

By Anna Borges

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

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

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

Figuring out if you can fly with your cat

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

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

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

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

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

Deciding whether to fly with a cat

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Preparing to fly with a cat

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

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

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

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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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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A Complete Guide to Flying With Your Cat on a Plane

Though your feline might not love the experience, you can make their first airplane ride as cozy as possible with these tips.

Lindsay Tigar is a freelance lifestyle and travel journalist. Her work has also appeared in USA Today, CNN, Travel + Leisure, National Geographic, Real Simple, and many other publications. She's also the proud mom of her sweet cockapoo 'dogaughter', Charli, who loves digging in the sand, chasing balls (and squirrels), and snuggling up on the couch.

Can You Fly With Your Cat on a Plane?

How to fly with your cat internationally, each airline has a different pet travel policy, how much does it cost to fly with a cat on a plane, 6 tips for flying with a cat safely.

When it's time to visit family across the country or take an extended trip overseas, you can't imagine leaving your best furry friend at home. Our pets are part of our family, and if we could, we would bring them nearly everywhere we go. If you plan on boarding a flight with your favorite feline, it's essential to plan ahead.

Though you are allowed to fly with a cat in most cases, you want to ensure you're following airline regulations and that your kitty is as comfortable as possible. Plus: if you're traveling internationally, you need to understand the local requirements for bringing a live animal onto foreign soil. We spoke with veterinarians to get their best advice. Consider this your guide to flying with a cat safely.

Yes, you sure can! But, you'll need to do your homework before packing them up and heading to the airport. First and foremost, a health certificate is typically required for domestic travel, usually within 10 days of travel, explains Stephanie Sheen, DVM, a veterinarian for pet health care app Fuzzy . This health certificate will ensure your cat is at least eight weeks old, up to date on their vaccinations , and they are free of any signs of an infectious disease .

Any while you can fly with your cat on a plane, it's not always the best option for all cats, Haylee Bergeland, KPA-CTP, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, says. "If the cat is OK to travel, doesn't mind being in a travel crate or bag , and does fine being in new places, then it's OK," she says. "But if the cat doesn't like those things, which is going to be most cats, then a pet sitter is better."

If your cat is exhibiting signs of stress or anxiety such as excessive vocalization , excessive grooming, or drooling, it may be best to leave your kitty home with a trusted family member, friend, or pet sitter.

If you are heading internationally, there will be more hurdles to jump through. As Sheen explains, while rules are similar, some destinations will require different vaccines for parasite prevention and other health concerns. "These documents can be multiple pages in length and typically need to be completed by a veterinarian who is certified through the USDA," she continues. "Some locations may require rabies titers be completed before travel, which can take months to process."

It's also important to note these requirements also are subject to change, so it's vital to check the USDA website for Pet Travel for the latest information regarding your destination. "Allow plenty of time to negotiate this process. There may be companies in your area which offer a fee-based service to help you navigate this system, as well," she adds.

What about the airlines? Nearly all airlines allow cats to be onboard with their humans. However, many restrict how many pets can travel on a flight, so you should book ahead to ensure there will be no trouble at check-in. Usually, this requires a call to the airlines, since booking online isn't always an option.

Each airline also has different dimensions for pet carriers and weight limits, so you will need to make sure your baggage meets the requirement. In most cases, your cat must be able to comfortably be in their carrier in front of your seat for the duration of the flight.

Sheen recommends scheduling non-stop flights to reduce overall travel time—and thus, stress—for your kitty. It's also worth noting that your pet counts as your carry-on, so you'll need to check an extra bag for your belongings. Also, be aware that you will not be able to sit in an exit row with your cat in tow.

Here are some examples of popular airlines and their pet carrier requirements:

• Alaskan Airlines : Hard-sided dimensions: 17"L x 11"W x 7.5"H; Soft-sided dimensions 17"L x 11"W x 9.5"H
• American Airlines : Carrier must be able to fit under the seat in front of you. The combined weight of the carrier and your pet can't exceed 20 pounds.
• Delta Airlines : Carrier must be able to fit under the seat in front of you.
• JetBlue : Carrier dimensions: 17"L x 12.5"W x 8.5"H. The combined weight of your pet and the carrier must not exceed 20 pounds.
• United : Hard-sided carrier dimensions: 17.5"L x 12"W x 7.5"H; Soft-sided carrier dimensions 18"L x 11"W x 11"H.

Being a cat parent is a 15- to 20-year commitment. Not only does this include caring for your feline and giving them lots of love, but it comes with financial responsibilities, too. Flying with a cat isn't free, as airlines charge a fee per flight. Also, as we mentioned, because your kitty counts as your carry-on, you'll also likely have to pay for a checked bag, which can run from $20 to $40, dependent on the airline.

Here's a rundown of the cost to fly with your cat from five top airlines (these are subject to change, so double check before you book):

• Alaskan Airlines : $100 per flight
• American Airlines : $125 per flight
• Delta Airlines : $125 per flight
• JetBlue : $125 per flight
• United : $125 per flight

Getting from point A to point B with your favorite little feline should be as easy and comfortable as possible. Though, of course, you may deal with many meows and some anxieties, there are some tactics you can do to prepare for the adventure. These top tips from vets can help make the experience seamless.

1. Be prepared for security.

In a perfect world, you would never need to take your cat out of their carrier until you've arrived safely at your destination. Sadly, that's not a possibility since security screenings require you to take your animal out of their bag so the carrier can be scanned in the X-ray. Thus, you'll need to carry your feline with you through the metal detectors. To ensure your kitty doesn't get away, Sheen recommends putting your cat in a well-fitting harness with a leash.

2. Consider a soft-sided travel carrier.

Many airlines allow either a soft-sided or a hard-sided carrier for cabin travel. However, the soft-sided carrier can be more forgiving and give your kitty a bit more room to turn around and get cozy, according to Sheen. So if you're having a difficult time choosing, consider which one will make your pet feel most at ease.

3. Make the carrier a happy place.

Since almost all of your feline companion's travel time will be spent in the carrier, it's crucial to make it as comfortable as possible, suggests Katy Nelson, DVM, a senior veterinarian at Chewy. She says to throw in items that remind them of home, whether it's their favorite toy or an old T-shirt or blanket they like to snuggle up to. You can also use a feline pheromone spray like Feliway to make them feel calmer in their carrier.

Also, make sure to purchase your carrier at least a few weeks before your trip so you can slowly introduce it to your kitty. This allows them to get familiar with it, and thus, not be fearful. "Leave it out and allow them to sniff around, explore and potentially nap inside it," Nelson recommends. "As they gradually warm-up, start taking them on walks in the carrier and eventually short drives. Keep those same familiar items in their carrier when it's time to head out for your flight."

4. Pack essentials.

As Nelson puts it, it's best to be over prepared when traveling with cats in case of any accidents or emergencies. You should pack the leash, harness, a collapsible bowl , wipes, and treats. "Most carriers will include a spot to store these items but keep food and water separate to avoid any spills," she continues. "It's also important to properly label your carrier with your name, phone number, and destination address."

5. Avoid feeding the morning of travel.

Though it may seem mean, it could be better to not feed your kitty the morning before take-off. How come? Sheen says some cats will experience nausea and vomiting , so it's better to have less in their stomach. Of course, you should still ensure they are well-hydrated! "Line the carrier with an absorbent pad, such as a puppy potty pad, to absorb any accidents if they do happen," she adds.

6. Talk to your vet about medication.

While most cats do not need medication, it may be advisable if your cat experiences severe anxiety. Sheen suggests talking to your vet, and he or she can advise on whether prescription sedatives will be necessary for your trip. Since they do carry health risks, you want to ensure your kitty is going to be safe before using them.

Related Articles

More related articles.

5 best tips to keep your cat calm during a flight, according to veterinarians

• When flying with a cat, it's important to get your cat comfortable with a carrier before the flight.
• You should also pack a harness, training pads, a water dish, and cat food.
• You can try natural calming aids like pheromones or prescription sedatives for the flight. 

Flying with your cat can seem intimidating — it's hard to predict exactly how your cat will react to the airport and plane ride.

But preparing beforehand by testing out calming supplements and getting your cat comfortable with a carrier can help ease the process.

Here are several methods you can use to get your cat ready to fly and make the experience as smooth as possible.

1. Get your cat comfortable with a cat carrier

Your cat will need to spend the entire flight inside a carrier, so it's important to train your cat to feel comfortable with it. 

Here's how to get your cat used to a carrier:

• If you're using a hard carrier, you can leave just the bottom part in one of your cat's favorite spots in the home, such as a sunny corner, says Carlo Siracusa, DVM , a professor of animal behavior and welfare at the University of Pennsylvania.
• When your cat has become comfortable sitting in the bottom of the carrier, you can put the top on and encourage your cat to spend time in it using treats. "Progressively increase the time that the cat spends in the assembled carrier, starting from just a few seconds," Siracusa says.
•  "After the carrier has been out long enough to not seem threatening, start moving in favorite bedding, toys, treats, maybe some catnip," says A manda McNabb, DVM , a veterinarian in private practice in Washington state 
• The final step is to practice carrying your cat around the house in the carrier and eventually use it for short car rides.

If you're using a soft carrier, you can follow the same steps, but you won't be able to detach the bottom part.

If you don't properly acclimate your cat, they may panic in the airport or on the flight. This can be traumatizing for the cat and stressful for you and the people around you.

Siracusa recommends giving your cat at least three to four weeks to get used to the carrier. "We always suggest going slow, since if you try to go too fast, it can backfire," says Melissa Bain , DVM, a professor of clinical animal behavior at UC Davis.

2. Pack everything your cat needs

Being prepared also means gathering all the things your cat may need for the flight. Some of the most important items you should bring in your carry-on include:

• A harness and leash to help restrain your cat while you pass through security – the carrier may need to go through an Xx-ray, so you will need to carry your cat.
• Training pads to soak up urine if your cat has an accident during the flight.
• A dish and water.
• Extra food in case your flight gets delayed.
• Baby wipes, gloves, and Ziploc bags to help with any cleanups.
• For longer flights, a small, disposable litter box.
• Any medical records and your cat's microchip numbers. Airlines may ask for this information and it may be useful in case of emergency.

3. Don't give your cat any food the morning of a flight

Eating before a flight can increase your cat's motion sickness, causing nausea or vomiting. That's why, for most cats, you should avoid feeding them four to six hours before the flight.

You can still give your cat small amounts of water before the flight and while you're on the plane.

Your cat shouldn't have any issues from skipping a meal – in fact, he may not even want to eat if he's feeling stressed. "Healthy adult cats can be safely fasted for a few hours before and for the duration of the flight," McNabb says. Cats can go about 8 to 10 hours before feeling hungry.

Young kittens may not be able to fast, however. "Kittens less than 6 months should have food at their normal times," McNabb says.

If you have an adult cat with any serious health conditions, you should also talk with your veterinarian to find out how long your cat can go without food, Bain advises.

4. Try natural calming solutions

Some natural products may help with your cat's anxiety, Siracusa says. These include:

• Pheromones : Chemicals that animals emit to send emotional signals to each other. One pheromone product, Feliway , mimics a pheromone cats give off to mark an area as safe. Spraying this in your cat's carrier can offer comfort to a frightened cat.
• Herbal medicines: Though there are no formal studies yet, many cat owners have had success giving their cats certain flower essences or dried herbs. One product called Rescue Remedy combines five different flower essences and experts say that it should be safe for your cat.

You can also ask your vet about other natural products that may help him stay calm on the flight.

When trying any new product, follow the manufacturer's dosing instructions carefully, McNabb says. It's also best to try out products a few days before your trip to check for any side effects. "It is also extremely important to use a product specifically labeled for cats, as cats in general do not metabolize things the way dogs or people do," McNabb says.

5. Travel with a sedative

The majority of cats will not need to take sedatives for a plane flight, Siracusa says.

"Even those cats that do not like to travel by car, do well during flights as there are not the same vibrations associated with car traveling," says Siracusa. Cats tend to be more nervous, however, when the aircraft is on the ground during takeoff and landing, as these transitions have more changes in pressure and vibrations.

Even if you plan to use natural calming remedies, Bain suggests that you should talk with your veterinarian to create a backup plan in case your cat does need sedatives.

"If they are seriously anxious, then they may benefit from as-needed medication that only the veterinarian can prescribe," Siracusa says. 

Common sedatives include drugs like Gabapentin and Trazodone , which can make your cat less aggressive, less stressed, and more compliant. Most sedatives will last between 4 and 6 hours, and ideally, you should medicate your cat about two hours before flying, Siracusa says. 

Just as with natural supplements, you should have some trial runs to see how your cat is affected before actually traveling. "Individual cats react differently to different dosages and medications. The more you know about your cat's needs, the better the flight will be for you both," McNabb says.

Insider's takeaway

Bringing your cat on a flight can be challenging, but there are many steps you can take to ease the process.

Getting your cat used to a carrier, bringing extra supplies, and using natural or prescription remedies can all help to keep you and your cat calmer during a plane ride.

If you aren't sure what methods to try, talk to your veterinarian to figure out what will work best for your cat.

• Main content

• 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.

Are you looking for the perfect cat harness? We suggest Hepper's Cat Harness & Leash Set , which includes a nicely designed, machine-washable harness made from soft, sturdy velvet and mesh.

• Escape Proof - Cat leashes and harnesses for walking aren't all equally secure. Our double aluminium...
• Superior Comfort - Our cat harnesses are lightweight, made with premium velvet fabric, breathable...
• Free Extra Strength Leash - You don't need to worry about your cat escaping this harness. This cat...

This harness is easy to put on and take off and features reinforced stitching, reflective stripes, and quick-release buckles. This set also includes a great leash made from durable nylon climbing rope.

At Catster, 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 cat company!

• 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.

• Gentle Care For All Pets - Infused with moisturizing hypoallergenic ingredients & enriched with...
• Deep Cleans From Head to Tail - Tackle the toughest dirt & messes with our extra strong pet wipes...
• Freshness On The Go - Each dog grooming wipes pack contains 30 counts of premium dog wipes that...

It's hard to beat the convenience of pet-safe wipes after a big adventure, between baths, or when cleaning sensitive areas. Our favorite option is Hepper's Wash Wipes, premium wipes designed to safely and gently remove grime from cats and dogs of all ages and sizes. These hypoallergenic wipes are made in the USA and feature moisturizing ingredients to soothe your pet's skin.

• 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!

• Tailored size even for kittens - the compact size of the whale plush cat toy at 15cm long ensures...
• Catnip Free Cat Toys - Made with top quality plush exterior & cotton interior, it's perfect for cats...
• Peaceful Playtime - No more squeaky cat toys for indoor cats. This stuffed cat toy is perfect for...

At Catster, 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 cat company!

• 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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Everything You Need to Fly With a Cat, According to Feline Experts

Cats can be tricky travel companions — already finicky on land, the air might make them even more particular (or panicky). But if you’re heading to the airport anytime soon, there are some steps to take to make the trip go smoother. Levi Myers, a cat caregiver at Best Friends Animal Society , recommends first booking an appointment with your vet as many airlines require a current health certificate and up-to-date vaccine record. The paperwork you need to provide may be airline-specific — so double-check before boarding. While you’re at the vet, Myers suggests you request a mild prescription sedative if you just know your cat won’t react well to being in the air. Then there are the essentials to make sure your cat stays safe and secure before and during the flight. Consider what’s below a checklist — including airline-approved cat carriers and cleaning products for accidents — recommended by cat-behavior experts.

Best cat carriers for flying

In our guide to airplane-friendly pet carriers , Sherpas were the most mentioned. One of the reasons was the brand’s Guaranteed on Board program, which allows you to see which carriers are approved by its airline partners like United and Delta. The small and medium sizes of this bag are part of the program, according to Samantha Schwab, Chewy’s resident pet expert from 2018 to 2021. Veterinarian John Iovino, who contributes to the Wildest , has used a Sherpa carrier when traveling internationally and emphasizes how easy it was to check on his pet. Alison Waszmer, the Dogtown director at Best Friends Animal Society , seconded that point, highlighting the carrier’s mesh paneling and sturdy construction.

Along with Sherpa, Sleepypod has been a popular pick among the pet experts we’ve talked to, earning spots on our lists of the best car seats for dogs and cat-lover-approved gifts . Myers recommends looking for a soft carrier like this one that’ll fit under the seat and let you check on your cat mid-flight without opening it up. “Other than security checks, avoid opening the carrier during transit,” he says. Mikel Delgado, a cat behavior expert with Rover , likes the Sleepypod Air because it’s specifically designed to fit under airline seats. Jamie Richardson, medical chief of staff at Small Door Veterinary , told us it’s a favorite of hers as well because there’s still enough space for pets to stretch out their claws.

A word of advice from Delgado: If you usually only take the carrier out for unpleasant trips to the vet, use the time leading up to your flight to encourage your cat to develop more positive associations with it. “Help your cat see the carrier as a safe space,” she says. “Leave it out all the time, and place a favorite blanket and treats in it, or even feed your cat meals in the carrier. During the flight, that familiar-smelling blanket will provide them with some comfort.”

For an option that’s comfortable for cats and won’t look out of place with the rest of your luggage, Richardson also previously put us on to Away’s carrier. The soft sherpa bedding is convenient for both cats and cat owners as it’s removable and washable. There’s a water-resistant lining for any accidents and mesh panels on the sides so your pet doesn’t feel claustrophobic. Richardson points out that this carrier is certified by the Center for Pet Safety as well.

Best cat leash and harness sets for flying

Although your cat will stay in the carrier for the duration of the trip, you may have to take him or her out when you go through security. To do so safely, our experts recommend a leash and harness to keep kitty from making a run for it. A harness can also act as a “calming agent,” says Dr. Keston Smith, medical director of Bond Vet , especially if you opted out of a sedative at the vet. Myers likes figure-eight-style harnesses that fasten around the neck and chest for extra security. You’ll want to try out the harness and leash a few times before you leave, as this will likely be a new experience for your cat. Delgado says you can also try requesting a private room for TSA screening, which may feel less hectic.

Dr. Darcia Kostiuk, a senior veterinarian with Champion Petfoods , is another big believer in getting a cat accustomed to a harness. “Try having your cat wear the harness and leash several times at home before using it at the airport,” she advises. There’s no one holy grail harness, but she does give a thumbs up to this Good2Go set, which features generous padding that she says makes for “maximum comfort.” Mesh on the bodice helps with breathability, too.

Best cleaning products for flying with your cat

Even cats who are meticulous about using their litter boxes and keeping them clean aren’t immune to accidents when traveling. Therefore, both Myers and Delgado recommend lining your carrier with a pee pad and bringing a few extras in case you need to replace it. Delgado says you may want to consider skipping your cat’s morning meal the day of the flight to avoid any stomach issues.

Schwab also recommends packing these all-natural, biodegradable wipes in case your cat needs a little cleaning up after an accident or spill. “These wipes will keep your cat clean and smelling good no matter where in the world you are,” she says.

Best feeding accessories for flying with your cat

You don’t want your cat to eat too much during travel, but Delgado says that for longer flights you “can bring a small amount of food and offer water during layovers.” These collapsible silicone bowls are both easy to clean and carry — they fold down flat when not in use and come with carabiners to clip onto your cat carrier.

“One of the best ways to keep cats calm during travel is to distract them,” says Schwab, and cat owners know there are few better distractions than your cat’s favorite treats. Our beauty contributor Rio Viera-Newton brought along some treats that her cat Martini “nibbled throughout the journey.” To make treat time a little more active (and therefore take up more flight time) Schwab suggests a treat-dispensing toy like a Kong ball that you can toss into your carrier. (Her exact favorite is sold out, but this is similar.) “Just stick your cat’s favorite treats in the ball and watch them swat away to their heart’s content,” she says.

Best calming products for flying with your cat

For cats who are especially anxious in new situations, Schwab says “you may want to invest in a calming toy.” She’s a fan of this one from Petstages that has a touch-activated purring mechanism that should be soothing for your cat to cuddle up with.

With a scent that mimics cats’ natural pheromones, these wipes — that you can use on your carrier or even surfaces on the plane — have a calming effect on some cats, according to Delgado. Probably worth trying them at home first to see how your cat responds.

A mild sedative, like Myers suggested above, can be useful, but you’ll want to be careful about anything that seems too heavy. This “will affect your cat’s ability to properly regulate body temperature,” Kostiuk says. Instead, in the week before a flight, she opens up the capsules and sprinkles the powder on top of their food for a similarly calming effect. On the day of a flight, Kostiuk recommends giving your cat a slightly smaller portion of food mixed with Zylkene — “just enough to settle their stomach without filling them up” — to lessen the chance of an accident.

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How to Take Your Cat on a Plane

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Taking a cat or kitten along on a commercial flight can seem like a straightforward idea, but the logistics can mount. You'll likely face additional costs, not to mention documentation requirements and other rules, which can vary depending on the airline.

With some research and preparation, both you and your kitty can fly safely and in comfort. The rules are much the same as when flying with a dog , but as with canines, you should still talk with your vet and your airline ahead of time.

Know your cat's travel options

In the cabin ....

If a pet in its carrier can fit under the seat in front of you, it typically can travel in the cabin. Generally, that means a pet weighing up to about 20 pounds — an easier hurdle to clear for cat owners than dog owners.

Under-seat space differs among airplanes, which often limit how many total pets are allowed on a flight. That's why you should check with the airline. Buying an extra seat for your cat isn't allowed. Traveling with a cat this way, essentially as carry-on luggage, usually costs less than if it travels in the belly of the plane. Note: A cat in its carrier counts as your allowed carry-on bag.

... Or as cargo

The other choice is flying your cat as cargo in a pressurized, temperature-controlled compartment. Cats can fly this way either as checked bags on the same aircraft as you, or unaccompanied as shipping cargo. There may be shipping timelines to consider if the cat travels as unaccompanied cargo, so check with your airline for details.

Some animal rights groups, including the Humane Society of the United States, recommend against traveling with your cat anywhere but the cabin if it can be avoided — and not all airlines allow cats to be transported as cargo.

You could also opt to use a pet shipping company. The International Pet and Animal Transportation Association may be able to help.

Understand the costs of each

Even though you can't buy an extra seat for your cat, you’ll still have to make a reservation for it.

Several of the biggest airlines in the U.S. charge $125 each way for an in-cabin cat. However, fees are somewhat less on other airlines, like Southwest Airlines ($95) and JetBlue ($100). Prices are from February 2018. Often, you pay the fee when you get to the airport on the day of flying.

Because your in-cabin cat counts as a carry-on, you might have to pay to check your roll-aboard bag.

Pets that fly as cargo often cost more — for example, $200 each way on American Airlines when cats are checked as luggage.

Other costs can include a pre-flight veterinary visit and buying a pet carrier.

Research health requirements, other rules

Have your veterinarian examine your cat to make sure it is healthy enough to fly by plane. If you’re checking your cat as cargo, note that some breeds are restricted by some airlines. For example, American Airlines doesn’t allow snub-nosed brachycephalic cats of any mix, such as Burmese, Persian and Himalayan, for fear of respiratory distress at high altitudes.

You might need to obtain a health certificate from a veterinarian several days before you fly, according to airline industry group Airlines for America.

There are various other rules and regulations to be aware of, depending on your airline. For instance, airlines may apply further restrictions no matter how the cat flies, whether cabin or cargo. United Airlines, for example, requires kittens to be at least 2 pounds or 10 weeks old. Check your airline's website to learn more.

Consider the carrier

Most airlines require that the carrier your cat rides in (sometimes called a crate or kennel) be large enough for your contained cat to stand up and turn around. But some airlines also have maximum size and occupancy limits, which they list on their websites.

Regardless, let your cat get used to its carrier before the flight. Airlines for America also suggests that you line the floor with bedding or absorbent material, that you add your contact information to the kennel, and that you indicate with arrows or writing which side should face up.

International flights

Flying internationally with your cat can be more complex and require more planning. Some airlines, like Southwest, don't let pets fly on international flights.

If your cat is allowed, you might need an international health certificate, and you must comply with the requirements of your destination country. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service lists regulations by country.

If your cat is an emotional support animal

If your cat is an emotional support animal, you likely won't get any special treatment, and you'll likely still have to pay applicable pet fees. A 2021 policy update from the U.S. Department of Transportation, or DOT, says that emotional support animals are no longer considered service animals, and airlines aren't required to treat them as such.

That means if your cat is an emotional support animal and was previously allowed on airplanes, there's no guarantee it will still fly for free (and it likely won't fly for free). All the major U.S. airlines no longer recognize emotional support animals as service animals and now charge pet fees, which can range from $95-$125 or more one-way.

Tips for flight day

Arrive at the airport early on the day of your flight and check in at the ticket counter with your cat if it’s flying in the cabin. If it’s flying as cargo, check with your airline about where to drop it off, since the cargo location could be at a different airport terminal.

Security screening

When going through airport security screening, the cat's carrier goes through the X-ray machine, while you leash your cat and carry or lead it through the metal detector. Consider membership in TSA PreCheck , which allows you to use quicker lines where you don't have to remove your shoes and light jacket.

Again, keep in mind that details of pet policies vary among airlines. It’s best to check directly with your airline when planning a trip to ensure you and your cat arrive at your destination safely.

Airline pet policies

Alaska Airlines

American Airlines

Delta Air Lines

Hawaiian Airlines

JetBlue Airways

Southwest Airlines

United Airlines

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Pet Travel on Delta

Embark on a journey with your favorite furry companion. Depending on their size, some pets can travel as your carry-on. Note:  Failure to comply with all pet policies and keep your pet in the kennel at all times while in the airport and onboard the aircraft may result in losing the ability to travel with your pet on future flights. Need to travel with your service animal? Explore our guidelines and requirements for trained service animals .

In-page Links

• Carry-On Pets , Go to footer note
• Booking Your Pet , Go to footer note
• Carry-On Kennel Requirements , Go to footer note
• Checking In With Your Pet , Go to footer note
• Carry-On Pet Fees , Go to footer note
• Carry-On Pet Exceptions , Go to footer note

Military Pet Travel

International pet travel, carry-on pets.

Small dogs, cats and household birds can travel in the cabin for a one-way fee that is collected at check-in. The pet must be able to fit in a soft-sided ventilated pet kennel that will go underneath the seat directly in front of you.

Please review the following requirements to ensure a safe and healthy flight with a small pet traveling as a carry-on:

• Your pet must be at least 8 weeks old for domestic travel.
• Your pet must be 16 weeks old if traveling to the U.S. from another country and at least 15 weeks old when traveling to the European Union.
• 1 female cat or dog may travel with her un-weaned litter if the litter is between 8 weeks and 6 months of age. There is no limit on the number of animals in the litter as long as they can fit safely in the kennel.
• 2 pets of the same breed and size between the ages of 8 weeks and 6 months may be allowed to travel in 1 kennel, as long as they are small enough to fit into a single kennel and are compatible. If the pets are allowed to travel in 1 kennel, they will be charged as 1 pet.

Pets in kennels will count as your 1 carry-on item. In addition to the kennel, you are permitted to bring 1 personal item on board the aircraft.

Seating With Your Pet

Customers with carry-on pets may not select seats in the following areas:

• Bulkhead seats
• An emergency exit row
• Seats designated as “no stowage”
• Flat-bed or Delta One seats
• Rows 46-51 on the A330-200 aircraft
• Rows 54-59 on the A330 -300 aircraft
• Center seats on the B757-200 aircraft

Booking Your Pet

Carry-on kennel requirements.

Be sure to check the aircraft dimensions of your flight to ensure your pet’s kennel will fit underneath the seat directly in front of you.

Your pet and kennel must also adhere to the following requirements:

• Your pet must be small enough to fit comfortably in a kennel with the ability to move around without touching or sticking out from the sides.
• The kennel must fit underneath the seat directly in front of you.
• The soft-sided kennel must be leak-proof and have ventilation openings on 3 sides for domestic travel and 4 sides for international travel.
• The maximum carry-on kennel dimensions are determined by the aircraft dimensions of your flight, as the under-seat space varies by aircraft. Delta recommends a soft-sided kennel with maximum dimensions of 18” x 11” x 11” since this fits most aircraft types.
• Your pet must remain inside the kennel with the door secured while in a Delta boarding area, during boarding and deplaning, while in a Delta Sky Club® and while on board the aircraft.

Checking In With Your Pet

When you arrive at the airport, you will need to visit the Special Service Counter to check-in with your pet. At check-in, a Delta agent will ensure your pet and kennel meet the necessary requirements for your trip and collect the required pet fee. Remember to allow extra time at check-in for us to ensure your pet is ready for take-off.

Once you are checked in and have your cabin pet tag, you are ready to go through the security checkpoint where you are required to remove your pet from their kennel.

After the security checkpoint, your pet must remain in their kennel while at the airport, unless they are in a designated relief area.

Delta Sky Club® Pets

Carry-on pet fees.

CAD amount will be charged to exit Canada, while EUR amount will be charged to exit Europe. These fees are established by the contract of carriage in effect at the time of ticket issuance.

Carry-On Pet Exceptions

For any travel to or from the following destinations — with the exception of service animals — pets must travel as cargo and are not permitted in the cabin:

• Pet travel is not allowed for pets originating in Brazil/Colombia
• Pet travel is not allowed on flights to Hawaii
• Jamaica  
• New Zealand
• Republic of Ireland
• South Africa
• United Kingdom
• United Arab Emirates

Household birds are only permitted on domestic U.S. flights excluding flights to Hawaii, U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and Guam. Review based on your destination or connecting flights.

The CDC has an ongoing, temporary suspension that prohibits the entry of dogs, including trained service animals, into the United States from countries that are at high-risk for rabies. During the suspension, options for bringing dogs that have been in a high-risk country for rabies within the past 6 months will depend on where the dogs’ rabies vaccinations were administered, and the number of dogs being imported. Dogs from high-risk countries must appear healthy, be microchipped and at least 6 months of age. For dogs with a travel history in high-risk countries, please review the CDC’s guidance on importation .

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How to Travel with a Cat on a Plane

The last thing on your mind while getting ready for a trip is how to travel with a cat on a plane.  It’s difficult enough getting yourself ready by packing your bags, making sure you have your belongings, and now you have to add a cat into the mix!

So you couldn’t find a cat sitter for your feline friend, and your only choice left is to take him or her along with you even if that means taking your cat 39,000 feet in the air?  Don’t worry.  Take a seat and grab your favorite drink.  Follow this detailed guide and you will be will prepared on how to travel with a cat on a plane.

Table of Contents

Plan Your Plane Trip with Your Cat in Mind

The first and most important thing you must do is make sure the airline you will be using allows you to travel with a cat on a plane cabin right underneath the seat in front of you.  Try to avoid flying on a plane that forces you to store your cat in the cargo/luggage area.  Here is a link to different airline pet policies.   The last thing you need is your cat stressing out and being scared to death while on the long trip.

Research the dimensions underneath the airline seats so you know what size cat carrier to purchase.  Also do research on the specific paperwork that is needed for your pet in order to travel.  These usually include vaccination records as well as a certificate for travel.

Use a Cat Carrier Specifically Designed for Taking a Cat on a Plane

Make sure to purchase your cat’s travel carrier far in advance of your trip.  Take into consideration a soft-sided travel carrier since it will be more forgiving when placing it under the airline seat space.  Keep the carrier open and near you at all times to make it more comfortable for your cat.

A good practice to start doing before the trip is slowly introducing the carrier to your cat.  I recommend this cat carrier for airplanes from amazon.  Take a moment and read my full post here about choosing the right cat carrier.  Have your cat play near it and also feed your cat inside the carrier.  This will create a more familiar and soothing environment when the big day comes.  Practice helping your cat get in and out of the carrier to make it as normal as possible.  This part is important to slowly condition your cat to its new environment it will soon be in. This is also a very crucial step to get.

Once you have booked the flight reservation, visit your pet’s veterinarian close to the date of departure.  Most airlines will require a valid health certificate for travel that must be completed by your vet before you can take your cat on the plane with you.  Also be sure all of your cats vaccinations are up to date, and expect to have your cat’s rabies vaccination certificate within reach while traveling.  Last, but not least, make sure you have a pet passport!  The pet passport will help speed up the travel process and is totally worth it to save a potential headache down the road.

Where Can I Get a Pet Passport?

A Pet passport is not required for a normal plane trip, but can still come in handy.  A passport for your cat usually helps speed up the boarding process because it will provide your airline with all of your cat’s information including vaccinations.  If you are going to the airline without a passport for your cat, be sure to bring all the necessary documents required to travel with your cat on a the plane.  You can find the required documents needed to fly with your cat on the airline’s website.

If you ever plan on traveling with your cat overseas then a passport will be required.  Read my full article here for all the steps needed to acquire a pet passport.

How Much Does It Cost to Take a Cat on a Plane?

The fees will vary based on the airline that you plan on choosing.  The price can generally range from $100 – $200, and some airlines may charge you a price for each way.  Don’t be surprised if the price is higher than listed, as airlines are constantly changing the prices of traveling with pets.  Contact your airline by phone or website for the most up to date pricing.

How to Get Your Cat Through Security at the Airport

First and foremost, your cat’s carrier will have to go through the luggage x-ray screening.  Your cat must be carried by you at this time.  They are not allowed to be inside it while it is being scanned.  Make sure to have your cat wear a snug fitting harness with a leash.  This is to secure your cat from running away if they are frightened.  Follow these steps when going through a security checkpoint:

• Prepare yourself and your belongings.  Remove anything that has metal, and place all your belongings inside of the security bins that need to go through the x-ray.
• Next remove your cat from the carrier and send the carrier through.
• Lastly, place your cat back inside of the carrier before gathering all of your belongings.  Secure your cat in the carrier for the entire duration of the plane flight.

How Can I Help My Cat Be Comfortable During a Plane Trip?

Make sure your cat travels on the plane on an empty stomach to minimize the risk of nausea and vomiting.  Having a full stomach is a recipe for disaster.  This is similar to when humans get car sick or plane sick.  Motion sickness in cats is a real thing. Be sure the carrier is lined with absorbent potty pads in case your cat needs to urinate or defecate during the flight.  Don’t forget to bring your cat’s food with you as well as any medication they take.  Also having a good sized carrier will keep your cat comfortable on this journey.

If you see that your cat starts to become scared or anxious simply provide them with their favorite cat treat.  At this time you can also put some water in their bowl as long flights can be very dehydrating to both you and your cat.

What Happens If My Cat Defecates or Urinates in the Carrier on the Plane?

The cat carrier should be lined with a pee pad for this scenario.  Don’t be that person that just puts cardboard or some paper towel on the bottom and call it a day.  You don’t want to be the one with the finger pointed at when the whole cabin of the plane smells like a fart bomb or strong ammonia from cat urine.

How Do I Keep My Cat from Meowing During the Flight?

There are many ways to prevent your cat from meowing.  You can try to talk to your cat in a soothing voice.  Having some cat treats to give your cat when they are having anxiety can be useful as well.  Click here to read my full article on how to sedate a cat for travel.  Sedating a cat before traveling is a great way to make sure they don’t meow through the entire plane ride or have excessive anxiety.

Should You Use a Sedative on Your Cat During Travel?

A sedative is always an excellent idea if you think your cat may be scared or frightened during the plane trip.  If you are looking for a way to sedate your cat, a spray is a good method.  A cat calming spray works to help calm your cat by using pheromones.  Simply spray it in your cat’s carrier, blanket, or bed.

Even if you believe your cat will not have any issues during the flight it is still good to educate yourself as a secondary precaution.  The last thing you want is your cat having a panic attack right in front of you with a 4 hour flight.

Final Thoughts

It doesn’t have to be hard to travel with a cat on a plane.  Being prepared and planning for your trip are the keys to a successful plane trip with your cat.  Using the correct airline approved cat carrier, sedating your cat, and choosing the correct airline are the 3 most important factors to do before you leave on the plane.  Take all things into consideration and you will have a great trip with your feline friend.

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How to Travel With a Cat on a Plane: 8 Tips & Tricks

By Rachael Gerkensmeyer

Updated on Mar 25, 2024

Whether for business, pleasure, or relocation, sometimes traveling on a plane with a pet cat cannot be avoided. Unfortunately, the experience can be stressful for everyone involved, including your kitty. Therefore, it is important to do everything that you can to make the plane trip as stress-free and enjoyable as possible.

Here are a few tips and tricks that you can use when traveling on a plane with your feline family member is with you.

The 8 Tips to Travel with Cats on Planes

1. pack a special bag.

One important thing that you can do to make traveling with your cat on a plane easier is to pack a special bag that contains nothing but gear that your kitty can use during your trip. Spend a few minutes making a list of things that you think your cat will need and want while they are contained in their kennel , traveling by vehicle to and from the plane, and while on the plane itself.

• A familiar-smelling t-shirt from home (something that you or a family member wears)
• Nausea medicine and tranquilizers prescribed by your veterinarian
• A bottle of Pedialyte or similar product in case of dehydration
• A favorite toy from home
• An extra blanket

The bag that you pack should be customized to suit your cat’s specific needs and care requirements. It should stay with you at all times throughout your trip so you have easy access to the goods inside whenever necessary.

2. Talk to Someone in Person When Booking

It is important to call and talk to a customer service representative personally when booking travel for your cat. This will enable you to communicate any special needs that your kitty has and to find out exactly what all your travel options are. Chances are that there are travel options available that are not offered or easily findable on the airline’s website.

Talking to someone in person will also enable you to find out exactly what the kennel size requirements are, what kinds of tags and markings should be put on the kennel, and how early you will need to be at the airport for a smooth transition to the plane.

3. Practice at Home

It is a good idea to get your kitty ready for traveling on a plane before your trip is scheduled, especially if you have never traveled anywhere together before. Practicing the act of getting your cat in their kennel and driving them to the airport will help get them used to the experience and make the process less stressful for them when the time finally comes to actually fly.

Start by placing your kitty’s kennel in the living room and then using treats to get your cat to go to the kennel and get in. This can take several days, as your cat likely won’t want anything to do with the kennel. Once your kitty starts feeling safe with the kennel in view, they should start coming closer and closer to get the treats that you have to offer. Eventually, you should be able to throw a treat into the kennel and have your cat follow it inside.

Once your cat is comfortable entering the kennel to get a treat, start closing the kennel door when they go inside and then take them for a drive around the block. Bring them back inside, let them out of the kennel so they know that they are safe, and then go on about your business like usual.

Repeat this process multiple times before heading to the airport to fly, and travel day should be much less stressful for everyone involved.

4.   Alert Other Transportation Services

If you will be utilizing a transportation service to or from the airport, it is important to let that service know that you will be traveling with a cat. Whether you’ll be using Uber, a taxi, or a shuttle system, letting the service know about your kitty ahead of time will prepare the driver for the experience. They will make sure that the atmosphere is calm and relaxed and that there is plenty of room for a kennel to sit by your side while you ride.

They may be able to provide special services or features, such as a portable fan to help keep your cat cool while in the vehicle.

5.   Keep Treats on Hand

Making sure there are plenty of treats readily available in your pocket will help keep your cat happy while you’re hanging out in the airport waiting to board your plane. Any time your cat shows signs of distress, you can be there to offer them their favorite treat and remind them that they are not alone during the adventure.

Treats can also help keep your kitty quiet while traveling in the cabin of the plane. Make sure the treats you choose are small and easy to eat so they don’t end up piling up or crumbling and making a mess in the kennel. Maybe pick one that your cat loves but doesn’t get often, like real bacon. Just cook a couple of pieces of bacon until crispy, then crumble the bacon into little bits before putting it all into a small plastic baggie.

Then, pop the bag in your pocket before you leave for your flight.

6.   Limit Feeding Beforehand

Nobody likes to deprive their cats of food, but sometimes it is in the best interest of the feline. For example, if your kitty eats a meal before you get on a plane, it could upset their tummy and create digestive issues. Diarrhea and vomiting could result, which will only create a huge uncomfortable mess inside the kennel.

By having them skip a meal before the plane trip , you can avoid them having possible digestive problems and ensure a more pleasant experience for your cat the whole time that they are traveling in their kennel. You can give your cat a full meal as soon as you land.

7.   Invest in a Harness and Leash

There may be a time when you must take your cat out of their kennel, like when you go through the security checkpoint at the airport. You could hold your kitty and hope that they don’t wriggle free due to fright, or you could outfit them with a properly fitted harness and leash to ensure that they can’t run away from you whenever they are out of their kennel.

Putting a harness and leash on your cat will also enable you to take them out of their kennel so you can cuddle and provide them with comfort. This will be helpful when you are sitting in the airport waiting to board your plane if your kitty is crying and meowing. Taking them out of their kennel should quiet them down and make the situation more manageable.

8.   Create a Home in the Carrier

To optimize your cat’s comfort while traveling on a plane, you can make their kennel feel like a home away from home. Start by covering a piece of bedding with one of your t-shirts that hasn’t yet been washed (you can always wash it when you get to your destination!), and then put the bedding in the kennel so it covers about ¾ of the floor area.

This will make the space smell just like you so your cat always feels like you are nearby. Next, tie a couple of your cat’s favorite toys to pieces of short string, then hang the string from the top slits in the kennel. This will give your kitty something to play with or at least help take their mind off their situation. Spraying the interior of the kennel with pheromones can also help calm your furry friend and make their travel experience a little less stressful.

You might also like:

• My Cat is Sleeping Constantly—Is That Okay?
• 11 Canada Pet Food Industry Statistics

Traveling with your cat doesn’t have to be a nightmare . With the help of these tips and tricks, you should be able to get through the flying experience with minimal stress and few disruptions. Prepare yourself for the trip for days beforehand both mentally and physically.

Work closely with your veterinarian, and take possible problems and emergencies into account. Happy travels!

Related Read: 

• How to Ship a Cat Safely and Humanely: Preparing & Methods
• How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Cat? Price Update

Featured Image Credit: Photo-Spirit, Shutterstock

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How to Travel with a Cat (incl. Flying with a Cat)

How do you travel with a cat on a plane? How do you take a cat on a road trip? How do you teach your cat to walk on a leash? My cat does all these activities on a regular basis and he behaves. 

If your cat is still a kitten, you’re in luck of making him a true adventure cat. Kittens can adapt easier to new situations than adult cats. However, don’t worry, an adult cat can be easily trained as well, even if your furball is grumpy.

My Poofy loved to travel and is actually getting mad at us when we leave him at home. Strangers are still stunned by the view of a cat walking on the leash, but I’m telling you that it’s all normal. My cat is basically like a dog in this sense, he even scratches the door if we don’t walk him every day.

How to Train Your Cat to Walk on the Leash?

First things first, leash training is important when it comes to traveling with your furry friend. When we think of dogs, we think of walking them on a leash. When it comes to cats on the other hand, not so much. I can’t tell you how many times I got stopped by strangers saying ‘omg, it’s a cat on a leash!’.

Others kept asking questions how did I train my cat to do this since their cats don’t move when they put a harness on them. Leash training your cat is a process but it’s totally achievable, regardless of what kind of cat do you have.

Read More on How to Teach Your Cat to Walk on a Leash

My cat is actually a Ragdoll, a breed that’s known for being an indoor cat. When I first took him outside the cat was falling off trees not able to keep a balance, birds were basically hopping around him because he was so hopeless.

Flying with a Cat: Best Tips

First of all, let’s clear up the air here, as there are a lot of misconceptions about flying with pets. You CAN bring a cat (or small dog) on a plane in the cabin for an extra fee on many airlines. Your pet does not need to be an emotional support animal to fly in a cabin.

Several of the biggest airlines in the U.S. charge $125 each way for an in-cabin cat, $200 for an international flight. On European flights, the fee is usually between $50-70.

Check which airlines allow pets in the cabin. I highly advise against shipping cats as cargo (unless you’re going to UAE, Iceland or UK and there’s no other option), as they’re small enough and fit under the seat. If a pet in its carrier can fit under the seat in front of you, it typically can travel in the cabin. The size of the carrier varies depending on the aircraft though.

If you’re flying domestic, you don’t need any documents. If you’re flying internationally, it’s a completely different story as there are more requirements and a topic described in a separate blog post on how to bring your cat (or dog) to Europe . 

Call your airlines before purchasing your ticket to make sure that they have space for your kitty on the plane. There are limits on how many total pets are allowed on each flight and as you can imagine, buying an extra seat for your cat isn’t allowed.

A cat in its carrier technically counts as your allowed carry-on bag, but I’ve never had an airline telling me that I can’t bring my regular carry on as well.

My Tip: Book yourself a window seat if you can, so then your cat can have some peace and quiet if he decides to sleep in his carrier. If you have an aisle seat, he will be constantly near the aisle with people walking through and flight attendants serving drinks. It might cause some unnecessary stress.

What to do if you get a seat next to someone allergic to cats?

The correct answer is you do NOTHING. It actually happened to me many times and once we were also sat next to a little fluffy dog. A person whose allergic should call a flight attendant and they’ll find them another seat, further away from your cat.

If they’re unhappy with the situation they can deplane and be rescheduled without an extra charge. These are the rules (not my rules, official airline rules).

That said, upon further research if you have a severe allergy to cats and dogs always be prepared with anti-allergy pills. Even if there are no pets on your flight it doesn’t mean that they weren’t any pets or service animals on it before that and allergens are circulating in the air. Planes are rarely deeply cleaned and definitely not fully after every flight.

Poofy has been on over 25 flights, so he’s a veteran. Here are my best tips:

IMPORTANT: Always dress your cat in a harness and have a leash ready to go, even if your cat isn’t fully leash trained yet, or you have no intentions of getting him out of the carrier.

You will need to take your cat out of the carrier for security check and carry him through the X-ray screening, while your belonging and his carrier are being X-rayed (please do not leave your cat in his carrier and x-ray him like luggage!!).

This is the most stressful moment for any kitty because there are a lot of people around, beeping noises and things are happening around. Cats can sneak out, so it’s best to keep your furry friend safe on the leash then. Poofy just hangs around my feet on the leash when I pack my stuff. And everyone says ‘aww’ when they see him.

Note: Not many, but some airports will ask you to take his harness off – even if you have TSA Pre-Check. It’s ridiculous, especially when we fly with the cat, baby and toddler, but that’s something you need to keep in mind.

Best Cat Carriers for Plane Travel

I went through a lot of cat carriers, as some fell apart and some turned out to be too big, despite being promoted as ‘airline approved’. The best one turned out to be the  Sherpa Carrier , as it fits under the seat, it’s not too wide, and more importantly – it’s Poofy approved. They’re available in different colors and different sizes. Poofy uses Medium because he’s a giant cat. Most cats would fit in a small one though.

IMPORTANT: When you call the airline to pre-book your ‘pet ticket’ you’ll be asked to give the dimensions of your carrier. Give the dimensions of the small carrier, even if you use medium when flying on smaller planes. No one actually measures them at the airport, but the lady on the phone won’t book your cat if the dimensions are exceeding ‘recommended’ ones.

Flying with Cats: Checklist

On top of a carrier, you might want to pack a few things. Depending on the cat, your cat might want to sit in his carrier or be a lap cat. Poofy is usually a lap cat when it comes to flying. He peeks through the window in the beginning but then falls asleep.

I’ve never seen Poofy expressing even the slightest interest with any toys when we travel – too many things are going on, so you can leave those for later.

Have some snacks ready and a foldable water bowl. Most cats tend not to drink and eat much when they travel, but at least try to offer some.

What about pooping? We equipped ourselves with a foldable litterbox and some litter in a ziplock bag, but so far the only time we actually used it was during a road trip at hotels. Poofy has never pooped or peed at the airport, on the plane or in the car. He waits until we get to a hotel, or back home to do his business.

I read somewhere that cats can last up to 24 hours without going, and I’ve seen Poofy lasting 12 hours already. He just refuses to go. Again, it’s better to be prepared. Take your cat to the restroom, prepare his litterbox and see if he goes.

• Portable Bowl for Water/Food
• Foldable Litterbox  or  Disposable Litter Trays
• Cat Litter in a Ziplock Bag
• Kitty Snacks

Road Trip with a Cat

If your cat suffers from motion sickness he will be quiet and drool. Most cats can overcome motion sickness, but it’s best to calm your kitty before putting him in a car for the first time. I didn’t do it with my previous cat and she hated cars forever. We gave Poofy calming snacks a few times, but these days he doesn’t need them anymore.

We road tripped and moved across the country with Poofy many times and he doesn’t mind it. He loved to walk around the car and explore the car, look through the window, hangs out on a windshield and eventually falls asleep down by the passenger’s feet.

We usually stop often and walk him so he has a chance to spread his legs, but he never really poops or pees when traveling.

Staying with a Cat at a Hotel

Staying at a hotel with your cat can be more fun than you think. Cats love staying at hotels. They have new spots to explore and places to hide.

If you leave the room without your cat, leave the ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign on your door. You don’t want to risk having housekeeping open the door and have your cat escape. Some pet-friendly hotels even have a ‘Pet in Room’ door hanger available.

Place the litter box in the bathroom, as the litter can be hard to get out of the carpet. Then feed your kitty and give him some time to explore.

Which Hotels Allow Cats?

Finding a cat-friendly hotel can be a challenge. It’s definitely easier in Europe where most hotels accept pets, but in the US you need to double-check. Many hotels that state their pet-friendly status or say ‘we welcome furry friends’ turn out to accept only dogs and not cats, so remember to call the property before booking your room.

The hotel will most likely charge you a deposit or fee for each pet. But, you also might be a charged a surprisingly huge cleaning fee for your cat, so ask about all the fees involved beforehand.

Here are some US chains that always accept small pets:

• Red Roof Inn
• Extended Stay
• Best Western ($20 per night, max $100 per stay)
• Ace Hotel ($25 per night for the first pet)
• Loews (most will charge $25 per pet)
• Four Seasons

In NYC I can recommend Hudson New York . Pet stay for free and it’s super close to Central Park where you can walk your cat or dog.

Do you have any questions about traveling with a cat? Ask me in the comments below!

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Sunday 14th of April 2024

My cat is 14 and we are moving from Melbourne, Australia to London, UK for a couple of years for work. I'm a little concerned for our cat's age and how he might travel as this will be a new experience for him. But we will adopt some of your suggestions in this really useful guide how you travel with your cat.

Monday 24th of April 2023

Thanks for all the very helpful information! Just one quick question. I will be traveling from South-east Europe all the way back to Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. With layovers this is an almost 23hr journey (there are no shorter options). So, is there anything extra/specific that I should take into consideration due to the extended length of the trip. I have never travelled on a plane with my cat before (only short road trips, 2-3hrs, during which she is normally well behaved), so I'm a bit nervous about the whole procedure. Thanks so much for the article, and thanks in advance for any additional advice you can offer

Anna Karsten

One thing I'd suggest from our experience would be getting snacks that are slightly watery (if your cat likes them). Our cat doesn't really want to drink when he's traveling so "wetter" snacks would be helpful along with basically forcing them to drink some water if you notice the nose and area around it is wet from sweating or being stressed.

Monday 12th of September 2022

Do you have experience with two cats traveling on long flight? I have two seniors and need to take them with me. The airline requires only one carriage bag. I’m wondering also if you know about a bag that can be used and divided in two as I don’t think my cats will stand together for long flight. Any advice is appreciated

Tuesday 13th of September 2022

There's this one https://amzn.to/3DjdW2j but you would need to reposition the padding to make it horizontal as the bag has to be under the seat.

Tuesday 9th of August 2022

Anna- do you have a harness you prefer and one that doesn’t set off security. I am travelling next week with my kitten (11 weeks). He’s a chill kitten and sleeps in the car etc but the harness I bought him seems a little bulky for him and he looks so uncomfortable. Plus the leash has a metal clip. I would prefer to be able to keep him leashed just in case while we go through the X-ray machine.

I listed all my favorites here: https://annainthehouse.com/cat-leash-training/

Tuesday 26th of July 2022

So happy to have found this. any tips on how to keep the kitty calm during the flight?

My kitten isn’t as anxious on short flights but isn’t fond of being in the closed carrier or on the floor. She’s happy to be on my lap or out of her carrier on a leash ( but that’s not exactly allowed on the flight).

She’s getting better though. I’ve taken her a few times for short flights (1.5 hrs) but recently had to take her on a 6hr flight (decided to give her the vet prescribed meds) but would love to train her and let her get used to travelling.

Thursday 28th of July 2022

In my opinion, the meds actually get them nervous with all the waiting and the cat is confused - I would be too if someone was giving me these meds and I had no clue what's going on thanks to them. We never give Poofy anything, he gets annoyed at some point but then we give him a snack and he's fine.

Planning on taking a plane trip with your cat? This trainer’s travel routine will help ensure things run smoothly

Traveling with your kitty by plane doesn’t need to be complicated.

Do you travel with your cat? Many of us will travel with our pets at one time or another, whether it’s for a vacation, to move house, or just to visit loved ones. 

You might know how to travel with a dog, or perhaps you’ve never traveled with a pet at all, so what should you know when it comes to traveling with a cat? Apart from bringing some of the best cat toys with you, of course! 

Well, cat behaviorist Albert Colominas of OutdoorBengal has offered some advice in a recent Instagram post, to help you plan your next trip with your kitty!

A post shared by Albert & Mia | Cat Training & Adventures (@outdoorbengal) A photo posted by on

“Reflecting on our trips, the thing that stressed me the most when traveling with Mia was dealing with her litter box routine,” Colominas explains. “Then I learned about the other issues like leaving or entering countries or even training her how to be comfortable on her carrier.”

He outlines a formula he always follows when traveling with Mia, which involves planning ahead, ensuring that she’s trained and comfortable, making sure he has all the gear he needs, and being prepared to adapt and change plans if needed.

Three months before traveling with a cat , he recommends updating your cat’s vaccinations, and microchipping them if they don’t already have one, and then buying tickets and securing your cat’s place in the cabin two months before. One month before you go, Colominas advises checking all the paperwork you’ll need.

To ensure that your trip continues to go smoothly, he adds, “Don’t let your cat escape! Find a cat harness that gives you peace of mind and allows you to go past airport security.”

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As for Mia’s litter box routine, he explains that he’ll give Mia the chance to use her portable litter box before a flight, will take her to the plane bathroom during the flight, and will let her use her litter box as soon as they land, too. 

He explains, “This routine has made our travels much smoother, and Mia seems more relaxed knowing she has a comfortable place to go when she needs it. It’s a simple solution, but it has made a world of difference in our flying experiences.”

Making sure you’re prepared before the flight actually comes around will help you make the journey with your feline friend a lot smoother. Traveling with a cat might sound daunting, whether you’re doing it for the first time or you haven’t done it for a while, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. 

For more travel advice, here are 32 tips for traveling with pets , while here are the 33 best places to take your pet on vacation !

Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Dog & Cat Carrier Bag $41.49 at Chewy Featuring mesh windows for ventilation, top and side entry with locking zippers for safety, padded carrying strap with adjustable no-slip shoulder and a machine-washable faux lambskin liner, this stylish cat carrier will ensure your feline friend travels in comfort. 

Adam is a freelance journalist covering lifestyle, health, culture, and pets, and he has five years' experience in journalism. He's also spent the last few years studying towards undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in journalism. While a cat person at heart, he's often visiting his parents' Golden Retriever, and when he's not writing about everything pets he's probably drinking coffee, visiting a cat cafe, or listening to live music.

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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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• Travel with pets

Everything You Need To Know About Traveling With A Cat On A Plane

Are you planning on flying with your cat on a plane and feeling swamped trying to figure out confusing airline pet policies, picking the best airlines for traveling with cats, and figuring out what to add to your packing list? Fear not, as we’ve got you covered.

As much as we love our pets, flying with your cat internationally or domestically can be a stress-inducing experience, especially if it’s your first time traveling with your beloved companion. Here, we’ll break down all you need to know about flying with animals to help you get as prepared as you can be for your flight and provide you with all the must-know information.

• What Are The Requirements For Flying With A Cat?

Rules and regulations for traveling with cats can differ based on the airline and destination you’re traveling to. It’s also worth remembering any stopover locations can have requirements that deviate from your final destination.

For this reason, it’s always best to ensure you’ve researched the regulations for your specific airline and destination before booking your flights. That being said, there are many commonalities between pet policies from various airlines and countries that you can expect to see.

One of the documents you’ll likely be asked for is a valid health certificate for your cat, provided by a certified vet and usually issued up to 10 – 30 days before your departure. During your visit to the vet, the staff will examine your cat and determine if it’s safe for your kitty to travel. If they think your cat is in good health, has up-to-date vaccinations, and is safe to fly, they’ll give you a certificate with relevant details about your pet’s age, size, and health to present to the airline before your flight.

This step is especially important if your cat must travel in the hold. Anyone planning an extended vacation may need to obtain another health certificate for their return flight, as they are generally valid for just 30 days.

Another key requirement to keep in mind when you’re planning is finding the appropriate kennel for your cat. Usually, carriers must be small enough to fit under the seat if you’re flying with your cat in the cabin but large enough that your cat can stand, turn, and lie down comfortably. The rules for travel with animals in the hold can differ, but we’ll give you all the details on kennels and crates later.

Destination

Possibly one of the more tedious must-dos for flying with your cat is getting to the bottom of the requirements for your holiday destination. Though many countries are relatively straightforward to travel to with pets, you’ll find that traveling with your cat to Hawaii can be much more complicated than traveling with a cat to Mexico due to Hawaii’s stricter customs regulations that require pets to be quarantined for some time after landing.

• How Much Does It Cost To Fly With A Cat?
• Book a flight for you and your cat on Delta Airlines.
• Experience a plane journey alongside your cat with American Airlines.
• Fly comfortably with United Airlines’ cat-friendly flights.
• Secure your spot on a Lufthansa Airlines plane for you and your cat.
• Take to the skies: bring your cat aboard a KLM Airways flight.
• Embark on a journey with your cat via Virgin Atlantic’s flights.
• Plan your trip: cat-friendly plane travel on Etihad Airways.
• What Are The Rules For Flying With A Cat?

You’ll find the rules for flying with your kitty can change a little depending on whether your cat flies with you in the cabin or as cargo.

Pet owners will be glad to learn that many airlines will allow your cat to fly in the cabin. Cats traveling on board with you can be placed in either a hard-sided or soft-sided kennel that fits underneath the seat, and your pet must remain inside the carrier for the duration of the flight.

While the exact dimensions of pet crates may vary a little between airlines, the maximum size permitted on flights is generally 17.5″ X 12″ X 7.5″ for hard-sided crates and 18″ X 11″ X 11″ for soft-sided carriers. If your chosen airline only permits your cat to travel as checked baggage or cargo, the maximum dimensions tend to be much higher, though this generally won’t be necessary for cats unless they are a larger breed. However, only hard-sided kennels can go in the hold for safety reasons.

Most airlines count your cat and their carrier as your hand luggage, so you’ll likely only be permitted to bring a personal item like a small backpack or handbag on the plane with you.

In addition to the health certificate required by many airlines, you must ensure your cat is microchipped and has had any relevant shots, with rabies vaccinations being the most common requirement airlines will look for.

• How Hard Is It To Fly With A Cat?

Thinking about traveling with your cat can send you into a frenzy, but it doesn’t have to be as daunting as it seems with adequate preparation.

To make your flight as smooth as possible, starting the planning process earlier than usual is essential. It’s best to get in touch with your airline before booking to ensure you’re aware of the current safety requirements and that there’s availability for your cat, as carriers usually only allow a limited number of pets per flight on a first-come, first-served basis.

Once you’ve secured your cat’s spot on the flight, you can then work on checking off the airline’s list of requirements, such as finding a suitable kennel, getting any necessary vaccinations, and booking your cat in for a health check shortly before your departure.

For many cat owners, one of the biggest concerns is your pet’s comfort and safety during a flight. Luckily, there are plenty of things you can do to keep your cat’s anxiety and stress to a minimum, which we’ll outline for you later.

• What Is The Difference Between Flying With Your Cat In The Cabin Vs. In The Hold?

Flying with your cat in the cabin is the preferable option for many owners, but there are pros and cons to both the cabin and the hold. Unlike traveling with large dogs on planes, most cats can fly in the cabin.

If your cat joins you in the cabin, you’ll feel more at ease as you can comfort and check on your pet to keep them relaxed. You’ll usually be able to check in at the airport as normal and pay the required fees before heading to security. After the flight, once you’ve collected any checked luggage, you can leave the airport quickly. However, some animals can find the volume of people and loud noises in the airport and on the flight nerve-wracking, so this might not always be the best option.

The procedure is quite different for cats traveling in the hold as cargo or checked baggage. When you arrive at the airport, there’s usually a drop-off area where you’ll have to take your cat after you’ve paid for your pet at the check-in desk.

Before this point, you’ll need to make sure your cat has all the travel essentials in their kennel. In the hold, your pet’s crate must be hard-sided, leak-proof, and well-ventilated, with suitable bedding and absorbent padding in case they need to go to the toilet.

Clearly label the kennel with the words ‘live animal’ on the top and sides, and ensure they have sufficient food and water that airline staff can supply from outside the crate. You must attach a collar and leash to the outside of the carrier, as they are not permitted to be worn on the flight as they are a choking hazard.

Once you’ve landed, you’ll pick up any checked luggage and go to the airport’s pick-up area, where you can reconvene with your pet an hour or two after the flight.

• What Are The Travel Requirements Of Different Airlines?

Airline Cat Policies, Rules, And Limitations

Most airlines cap the number of pets that can fly in the cabin. For example, if you’re flying with your cat with Delta, four pets are permitted per flight, while for those flying with their cat with JetBlue , you’ll find six pets in total are allowed on each flight.

Another rule that varies is the amount of pets per passenger. Often, airlines will allow one carrier per passenger, with two pets in the carrier, accepted if there’s ample space for the animals. However, some airlines restrict this to one animal per crate or require the two animals to be the same breed. If you’re flying with your cat with United, for example, you can only have one pet per carrier, while anyone flying with their cat with Southwest can have two pets of the same species per kennel. On the other hand, pets can only travel in the hold if you’re flying with a cat on American Airlines.

Depending on your cat’s breed, you may find they are prohibited from flying with some airlines for health and safety reasons. Short-nosed felines like Himalayan and Persian cats are banned from most flights as they may struggle to breathe due to the changes in air pressure. Aggressive, older, or unwell cats are often not allowed to fly; the same goes for pets under eight weeks old.

What Are The Most Cat-Friendly Airlines?

Just as there are some cat-friendly destinations with more relaxed customs protocols than others, some airlines tend to have more lenient pet policies than their competitors. We’ve rounded up some of the most cat-friendly U.S. airlines from the friendliest to the least friendliest.

• What Are The Must-Know Tips For Traveling With A Cat?

How To Pass The Security Check With A Cat?

Cats flying in the cabin will go through security with you. Though your cat must remain in their carrier when in the airport and on the flight, you must take your pet out of the kennel when you’re passing through security. The staff will inform you when you need to remove your cat; at this point, the kennel will go through the X-ray machine while you hold your cat as you walk through the checkpoint.

Once you get the go-ahead from security staff, you can put your cat back in their crate. Solid and wet food are permitted in-flight, and it’s a good idea to have them ready for staff to examine as you head to security.

How To Prepare A Cat For A Flight?

Your pet’s comfort is paramount when preparing for a flight with an animal. To help keep your cat at ease during the flight, starting crate training well in advance is a good idea, mainly if your cat is not used to spending extended periods in a carrier.

Once you’ve found the right crate for your cat that aligns with the airline’s requirements, the next step is to make it an inviting and relaxing place for your four-legged friend. Adding accessories like cozy bedding and easy-to-use water and food containers will make their crate a safe space.

A few months before your flight, help your pet adjust to their carrier, leaving it open at home, encouraging them to lie inside, and carrying them inside for short periods, gradually building up to longer timeframes. Make sure they have plenty of time to learn how to eat and drink from the containers, as they can differ from what your pet is used to. If your airline permits it, including a blanket that smells like you or your home is a great way to calm your cat’s nerves, which is especially relevant if your pet is traveling as cargo.

Unlike highly socialized pets, many cats may not be accustomed to large crowds and loud spaces, and airports can cause them a lot of stress if it’s completely foreign to them. For cats that fall into this category, exposing them slowly to busy environments in the lead-up to your flight will make this experience easier for your feline friend.

How Do I Book A Flight When Traveling With A Cat?

Much like flying with other animals, traveling with a cat is generally best organized by booking directly with the airline over the phone. Often, airlines do not allow you to add pets online, and speaking with a customer service agent will also help you to be aware of the most up-to-date requirements.

When you’re informed of the airline’s rules, you can book your flight before adding your cat to the booking. Some airlines enforce specific time frames for adding pets, so you might find you can’t book your cat until 14 days in advance or no less than 24 hours before departure.

What Should I Know If I’m Flying With My Cat For The First Time?

Many pet owners are unsure how to approach feeding their pets when flying on a plane for the first time with their beloved companion. To limit the chance of your cat feeling nauseous during the flight, feeding your cat no less than four hours before flying is advisable, as flying on a full stomach could make your cat more prone to motion sickness.

However, a supply of food is allowed on the flight, so you can feed your pet during the journey if you feel they’re hungry.

• How Can I Prepare For Flying With My Cat Internationally?

Depending on your flight routes, quarantine may or may not be something you’ll encounter. Suppose you’re traveling with your cat to Canada or Mexico or traveling with a cat to Europe, particularly countries within the EU. In that case, you most likely won’t have to worry about your cat being quarantined.

As previously mentioned, Hawaii has some of the more stringent customs regulations you’ll likely confront. Give yourself plenty of time to research before your flight, and ensure your cat has received two rabies vaccines, a valid health certificate, and is microchipped. If you meet these requirements, you can apply for the 5 Days Or Less quarantine program, keeping the number of days your cat will be separated from you to a minimum.

Some other countries requiring quarantine for cats include Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and Singapore.

Again, the documents needed for your flight will depend on your airline and route, but the following are commonly required:

• A health certificate from a certified vet, often called a pet passport, usually less than between 10 and 30 days before your flight.
• Confirmation of necessary vaccinations.
• Details of your cat’s microchip (15-digit chips are preferable as they are more widely accepted).

Preparations

Here’s a quick run-through of some of the most important things you should add to your to-do list before your trip.

• Contact the airline to confirm your cat is eligible to fly and to be aware of the latest regulations before booking.
• Pick up all the travel accessories well in advance and give your cat time to get used to their crate and feeding containers.
• Research the protocols of your final destination and stopover locations.
• Book your pet for a health check and assess if they need additional vaccines.
• Find out the location of drop-off and pick-up areas in the relevant airports if your cat will be traveling in the hold.

After Arrival

As most cats can travel in the cabin, there’s usually little to do once you arrive. Some countries may conduct a short examination of your cat, but it’s unlikely once all the necessary documents are provided.

Cats traveling as cargo must be collected from designated pick-up areas an hour or two after landing once you have passed through baggage claim, where you’ll likely find other passengers who may be flying with a large dog or exotic animals.

Pet owners traveling to countries requiring quarantine must follow a different procedure.

Most countries tend to require proof of rabies vaccinations, but other countries sometimes have specific additional requirements. For example:

• Cats entering Australia are recommended to have the FVRCP shot.
• Ireland, Malta, Finland, Norway, and Northern Ireland in the UK require tapeworm treatment.

Want more interesting tips and information on traveling? Read more Kiwi.com articles!

• Introduction

Frequently asked questions

• Travel with kids

15 Airlines That Allow Flying With Cats In Cabin [2023 Pet Policies]

Traveling with our furry companions has become increasingly popular, and many airlines have recognized the importance of accommodating passengers’ beloved cats. Instead of leaving them behind or entrusting them to a pet sitter, more and more pet owners are seeking airlines that allow flying with cats in the cabin. 

This article will explore several airlines that go the extra mile to ensure a comfortable and safe journey for both humans and their four-legged friends. From pet policies to cabin requirements, let’s dive into the top airlines that warmly welcome cats on board.

The following airlines allow flying with cats in cabin:

• Aegean Airlines
• American Airlines
• Turkish Airlines
• United Airlines

Different airlines have different prices and policies, which we will list for you in this article.

Which airlines allow flying with cats in cabin?

Aegean airlines pet policy..

• Maximum weight: 8 kg / 17.6 pounds (including carrier)
• Maximum carrier size: 55 x 40 x 23 cm
• Cost: 20-30 EUR domestic and 50-60 EUR international (prices differ depending on time of year)
• International: Yes

Additional information:

• In case you are travelling with an infant, you are not allowed to travel with a pet in cabin as well.
• Each passenger is allowed to travel with only one pet in cabin, carried within a special box/container

Visit Aegean’s website  for more information.

Alaska Air Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight: 9kg / 20 pounds (including carrier)
• Maximum carrier size:  43 x 28 x 24 cm (soft) / 43 x 28 x 19 cm (hard)
• Cost: 100 USD each way
• A customer may travel with a maximum of 2 cat carriers in the main cabin, only when the adjacent seat is purchased by the same customer.
• Up to 2 cats may travel in the same carrier, provided no body parts protrude from the carrier and the animals are not in distress.

Visit  Alaska Air’s website  for more information.

Air Canada Pet Policy.

• Maximum carrier size : 27 x 40 x 55 cm (soft-sided crate) & 23 x 40 x 55 cm (hard-sided crate)
• Cost: 50 USD within Canada & USA and 100 USD international
• International allowed: Yes
• Your cat in its carrier will count as one standard item  toward your carry-on baggage allowance.
• Only one cat per passenger.
• Your cat must remain under your seat at all times.
• Are an unaccompanied minor
• Are seated in an exit or bulkhead row
• Require use of a medical device that will be stowed under the seat
• Are travelling in Premium Economy

For more info, visit  Air Canada’s website .

Air Europa Pet Policy.

• Maximum carrier size: 55 x 35 x 25 cm
• Cost: 55 USD within Europe and 165 USD long-haul
• Prices subjects to possible surcharges for taxes in certain countries.
• You must arrive at the airport early enough to complete the necessary paperwork.

Visit  Air Europa’s website  for more information.

Air France Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight: 8 kg / 17 pounds (including carrier)
• Maximum carrier size : 46 x 28 x 24 cm
• Cost: 40 EUR domestic and 30-125 EUR international
• International: Yes, but note that this airline does not accept pets in the business cabin on intercontinental flights.
• Under no circumstances may your animal leave its travel bag during the flight.
• Only 1 animal is permitted per container.
• Each passenger may travel with only 1 animal.

For more info, visit  Air France’s website .

American Airlines Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight : 9 kg / 20 pounds (including carrier)
• Maximum carrier size : depends on flight
• Cost: 125 USD each way
• International:  Yes, but no in-cabin pets on transatlantic flights or flights longer than 12 hours
• Due to the lack of under-seat storage space, carry-on pets are not permitted in First or Business on certain planes (check link below).

For more info on additional restrictions, visit  AA’s website .

Delta Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight:  No limit, but pet must fit comfortably in carrier under seat
• Maximum carrier size: depends on flight (check the under-seat dimensions on your aircraft here ).
• Cost: 125 USD within North America and 200 USD international
• International:  Yes
• The kennel must fit under the seat directly in front of you.
• The kennel must be leak-proof and ventilated on at least two sides.
• Your cat must remain inside the kennel while in a Delta boarding area, a Delta airport lounge and while onboard the aircraft.

For more info on additional restrictions, visit  Delta’s website .

French Bee Pet Policy.

• Maximum carrier size: 43 x 35 x 20 cm (soft sided carriers only)
• Cost: 50€ each way
• Only one cat is allowed per customer, with a few exceptions.
• Your cat must remain underneath the seat in front of you during taxi, takeoff, and landing.
• Carriers must have leak-proof bottoms and be well ventilated.
• Only one pet per carrier is permitted.
• Cats are not permitted as carry-on in bulkhead seat, emergency row exists, mint seats and maxi leg seats.

For more info, head to French Bee’s website .

JetBlue Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight: 9 kg / 20 pounds (including carrier)
• Maximum carrier size: 43 x 31 x 21 cm
• When flying with a cat in cabin, they remain inside its closed/zipped up carrier at at all times.

For more info, head to JetBlue’s website .

Lufthansa Pet Policy.

• Cost: 50 EUR domestic, 60 international within Europe and 80-110 international outside Europe
• Each passenger is allowed to take a maximum of two animals with them.
• You must complete this form before boarding your flight.

Visit  Lufthansa’s website  for more information.

Southwest Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight:  No limit, but must fit comfortably in carrier under seat
• Maximum carrier size: 43 x 34 x 21 cm
• Cost: 95 USD each way
• International:  No (with the exception of trained assistance and emotional support animals, though no animals allowed to/from Jamaica)
• Customers will be permitted to travel with no more than one pet carrier per person. Each pet carrier can have no more than two of the same species of small cats per pet carrier.
• The cat carrier will count either as the Customer’s carryon bag or personal item.
• Cats must be secured in the pet carrier at all times.

For more info, visit  Southwest’s website .

TAP Air Portugal Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight: 8kg / 17Ib including pets and carrier.
• Maximum carrier size: 40 x 33 x 17 cm (soft sided carriers only)
• Cost: cost varies – check here
• International: yes 

Additional Information:

• Passengers traveling with pets in the cabin may select seats that are not located in rows with emergency exit doors or infant stroller apparatus.
• Cats are not permitted to be carried in Executive Class on long haul flights. 
• More than one cat is permitted per carrier, as long as the weight doesn’t exceed 8kg.
• Your cat must remain in the carrier, underneath the seat in front of you.
• Carriers must have leak-proof bottoms and be lined with an absorbant material.
• Carriers must be bite proof and be well ventilated.
• You are not able to fly cats into the UK. 

Pregnant cats, and kittens under 10 weeks old are not permitted on Tap Air flights.

Visit TAP Air’s website  for more info.

TUI Fly Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight: 6kg / 13.2 pounds (excluding carrier)
• Maximum carrier size: 55 x 40 x 20 cm (soft-sided crates only)
• Cost: 47.60 EUR domestic and 40 EUR international
• Your cat’s head must not protrude from the transport container and the animal must not leave the container during the flight.
• All cats must be fitted with a microchip and have the blue EU animal passport, confirming an up-to-date vaccination against rabies.

Visit TUI’s website  for more information.

Turkish Airlines Pet Policy.

• Maximum weight: 8kg, including pets and carrier.
• Maximum carrier size: 23 x 30 cm x 40 cm
• Cost: check here
• International: depends on flight 
• Cats are not permitted to travel with unaccompanied minors.
• Customers can purchase an additional ticket for their trip in order to carry on an additional cat. The cat must remain on the floor underneath the additional seat. 
• Two small cats are permitted per carrier, as long as the weight doesn’t exceed 8kg.
• Both soft-sided and hard-sided carriers are permitted. 

Pregnant cats or kittens under 10 weeks old are not permitted on Turkish Airlines flights.

Visit Turkish Airlines’ website  for more info.

United Airlines Pet Policy.

• Maximum carrier size: 46 x 28 x 28 cm (soft-sided) / 44 x 30 x 19 cm (hard-sided)
• Cost: 125 USD (+ 125 USD service charge for each stopover of more than four hours within the U.S. or more than 24 hours outside the U.S)
• International: depends on flight (contact the United customer-contact center for info on specific flights)
• Pets are not permitted on flights to, from or through Australia, Hawaii or Micronesia.
• Pets are not permitted to travel with unaccompanied minors.
• Customers can purchase an additional ticket for their trip in order to carry on an additional pet.

Visit  United’s website  for more info.

Vueling Pet Policy.

• Maximum carrier size: 45 x 39 x 21 cm (soft-sided crates only)
• Cost: 40 EUR domestic and 50 EUR international
• You must store the pet carrier with your pet inside on the floor, between your legs or under the seat in front.
• You must not take your pet out of the pet carrier until you have disembarked.

Visit Vueling’s website  for more information.

Rules and regulations for airlines that allow flying with cats in cabin.

The rules and regulations for flying with cats in cabin vary between airlines, however generally they state the following:

1. Cats must be no more than 11 inches tall and 18 inches long. 

As stated above, airlines generally require that your cat can fit comfortably in a carrier that can fit under the seat in front of you during the flight. Although the carrier requirements vary between airlines, this usually means that your cat cannot be more than 11 inches tall or 18 inches long.

2. Cats must usually weigh less than 9kg / 20 pounds.

Most airlines state that cats and their carrier combined, weigh no more than 9kg or 20 pounds. 

This does vary slightly between airlines. For example, American Airlines requires that the combined weight of your pet and the carrier cannot be more than 9kg at the time of check in. On the other hand, Air Europa have a limit of 8kg. Delta and Southwest have no limit on the weight, however they state that cats must fit comfortably in their carrier, under the seat in front of you. 

3. Cats must stay in their travel carriers at all times. 

Generally, you are not permitted to take your cat out of their kennel in the airport or whilst boarded the plane. This does mean no potty breaks, so make sure your cat goes to the toilet before entering the airport. 

With that said, some airports have specific areas designated for pets to stretch their legs and go potty. 

4. Cats must be at least 10 weeks old. 

In order to travel domestically, cats must generally be at least 10 weeks old. If you are traveling internationally, your cat must generally be at least 16 weeks old.

5. Only one pet per kennel.

Only one pet is allowed per kennel except in the following conditions:

• One female cat is traveling with her unweaned litter of kittens who are between the ages of 10 weeks and 6 months. There is no limit on the number of puppies in the litter so long as the weight limits are not exceeded. 
• 2 pets of the same breed and size between the ages of 10 weeks and 6 months may share a kennel.

6. You must have all the required documentation. 

The documents required to fly with cats in cabin will vary depending on which airline you are flying with, and where you are flying from and to. If you are flying domestically, some airlines do not require any documentation. Southwest , for example. However, other airlines require your pet’s health book. Aegean Air , for example. 

We will go into these requirements in more detail below. 

7. You must be over 18 years old.

An unaccompanied minor may not bring a pet in the cabin with them.

8. Cats must be well behaved.

A pet that shows disruptive behavior may be denied boarding. Examples of disruptive behavior include (but are not limited to):  

• Scratching, excessive whining or meowing
• Growling, biting, lunging
• Urinating or defecating in the cabin or gate area

How to prepare when flying with cats in cabin.

1. select an appropriate, cabin-approved travel carrier..

As mentioned above, different airlines and aircrafts have different size restrictions for carriers. When flying with a cat in cabin, be sure to check the restrictions for your specific airline, and aircraft.

For example, Delta recommends a soft-sided kennel with maximum dimensions of 18” x 11” x 11” since this fits most aircraft types.

We would recommend using a soft sided carrier as they usually give your cat more space. 

2. Get your cat used to it’s travel carrier.

When flying with cats in cabin, they will need to stay in its travel carrier for the duration of the journey. So, it’s very important that you spend some time to get your cat used to its travel carrier.

When first introducing your cat to its carrier, take it slow. Lure your cat into their carrier with plenty of treats, and let him/her play and sleep in there as much as possible. You want to avoid forcing your cat into the carrier as this may stress him or her out and may cause a negative association to the carrier. 

3. Exhaust your cat before the flight.

Try to exhaust your cat a little by increasing the level of activity before your trip. A sleepy animal will be less prone to getting stressed out on the flight, and will likely be better behaved on the flight. 

4. Limit access to food and water before the flight.

Limit your cat’s access to food. Therefore, it’ll be less likely that they will need to defecate or urinate on the flight.

Additionally, some animals may experience motion sickness if they eat just before a flight. If you are flying in the morning, then feed them the night before.

Air Canada suggest feeding your cat four to six hours prior to departure, as a full stomach may cause discomfort during travel. 

5. Familiarise yourself with the airport that you are departing from and arriving to.

Most airports will have a dedicated area for pets and service animals to rest. It is actually a legal requirement that all U.S. airports have pet-relief areas available for working animals and pets to rest. Take some photos of the airport maps, so you don’t have to wander around on the day trying to find a resting place.

6. Try to leash train your cat.

Although it isn’t usual for cats to wear harnesses and walk on a leash, in order to fly with cats in cabin they may need to be harnessed and leashed. It’s important to take time to leash train your cat before your flight, to minimise stress.

Most of the time your cat will be required to remain in their carrier, at the airport and on the plane. However, when passing through security and customs you may need to take your cat out of the carrier. 

Additionally, most airports have pet relief areas for cats to stretch their legs and go to the toilet.

Spend some time getting your cat used to walking on a lead at home. We recommend simply letting your cat wear a harness around the house for a while, before getting them to walk on a lead. That way they can get used to the feeling of wearing a harness. 

7. Bring along your cat’s favourite comforts.

To maximise comfort and minimise stress, pop your cat’s favourite blanket or toy in the travel carrier with them. If your cat suffers from separation anxiety, you could even pop one of your t-shirts in the carrier.

Documents required when flying with cats in-cabin.

The documents required when flying with cats in cabin will vary depending on which airline you are flying with, and where you are flying from and to. Generally you will require the following:

• Microchip certificate
• Rabies vaccination certificate
• Animal health certificate
• Additional vaccination certificates
• Rabies titer test results
• Parasite treatment certificate

This is just a guide on what is required, please check the requirements for your specific airline and destination country. 

a) Microchip.

Your cat can get microchipped at your local vet or a charity, such as RSPCA .

Not only is it usually a requirement when flying with a cat in cabin, it is in your best interest. If your cat was to go missing whilst abroad, then you are far more likely to be reunited.

b) Rabies vaccinations.

When flying with cats in cabin, it is likely that he/she requires a valid rabies vaccination. Particularly if you are taking your cat on an international flight as this is a requirement for entering most countries. 

Most countries require cats to have their rabies vaccination between 30 days and 12 months prior to importing.

You can get your pet’s rabies vaccination at your local vet, alternatively some charities offer this service for free or for a discounted price. 

c) Animal health certificate.

Most airlines will require an official animal health certificate issued by an accredited veterinarian when flying with cats in cabin.

In most cases, your health certificate will also need to be endorsed by the country’s authority responsible for the import and export of animals. For example, if you are traveling from the US, you will need your documents endorsed by the USDA. If you are traveling from Canada, you will need to have your documents endorsed by CFIA.

They are normally valid for 10 days. 

d) Additional vaccinations.

Depending on where you are flying to, your cat may also require additional vaccinations or treatments.

e) Rabies titer test.

Some countries require pets to have a rabies titer test before entering. This is usually the case when you are traveling from a country that is considered high risk for rabies.

If your cat requires a titer test the process is as follows:

• Your pet will have a blood sample taken at least 30 days after the rabies vaccination.
• Your vet will then send the blood sample to an approved blood testing laboratory.
• Your pet’s blood test results must show a rabies antibody level of at least 0.5 IU/ml.
• You must wait 3 months from the date the blood sample was taken before you travel.
• The vet will give you a copy of the test results.

f) Parasite treatment.

To enter some countries, cats are required to be treated against internal and/or external parasites before entering. This includes treatment for fleas, ticks, nematodes and cestodes. 

Conclusion.

Flying with cats in cabin is possible when flying with the airlines listed above.

Please note that airlines usually have different rules for different aircrafts, routes and destination countries. Additionally, most airlines have a restriction on the number of pets they allow per aircraft, so make sure you check availability before booking.

Always double check individual airline policies before booking as these can change.

Hope you have found this helpful.

Happy travels!

• Cat Sedatives for Travel: Should I use them?
• How to take a Cat on The Eurotunnel [Guide, FAQ & Prices]
• How to get a UK Pet Passport [Guide]
• Bringing Pets to New Zealand [Pet Passport Guide]
• Importing Pets to Australia [Pet Passport Guide]
• Bringing Pets to Japan [Pet Passport Guide]

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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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Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

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.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

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

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

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• Pets and Animals
• Travel with Cats

How to Transport Cats by Plane

Last Updated: August 4, 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. In this case, 95% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 407,932 times.

Air travel is not recommended for pets, unless it is absolutely necessary. In fact, air travel can be hazardous for animals with “pushed in” faces, such as bulldogs, pugs and Persian cats as they may have breathing issues when flying due to their limited airways and stress. [1] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source But if you are moving to a new country and need to take your cat with you, you may have no choice but to transport him on a plane. There are many horror stories associated with transporting cats on an airplane [2] X Research source , but with the right preparation, your feline friend can arrive to his new home safe and sound.

Transporting Your Cat in the Cabin

• Most airlines will allow you to take your cat on the plane in the cabin area for a small fee. Try to call the airline well in advance of your flight, as there is a limited number of animals allowed in the cabin during a flight.

• A month before your trip, feed your cat in the carrier so he associates it with a positive activity. Play with your cat in the carrier and allow him to lounge or rest in the carrier. This will make it seem as welcoming as possible.

• Your vet should give you a health certificate that confirms your cat is in good health and free of parasites. All your cat’s vaccinations should also be up to date, including his Rabies vaccination. [6] X Research source
• Your vet may also suggest implanting a microchip into your cat that will make it easier to locate him if he goes missing during travel. It acts as your pet's ID for life. Microchipping your pet is a simple procedure, where your vet injects a microchip the size of a grain of rice (12mm) under the surface of your pet's skin, between his shoulder blades. It does not hurt your pet and no anesthetic is required.

• Don’t forget to also carry any medication your cat might be on in a clear plastic bag.

• Before you take your cat out of the carrier, prepare yourself and your belongings for screening. Remove your shoes, toiletries, and electronics and place them in bins to go through the x-ray machine.
• Remove your cat from the carrier, keeping him in the harness, and send the carrier through the machine.
• Carry the cat as you go through the human screening device. Then, find the carrier and safely place your cat inside before gathering your belongings.

• Your vet might prescribe Buprenorphine, Gabapentin, or Alprazolam for your cat. Be sure to give your cat a dose at home before the flight as a “dry run” to make sure your cat does not react negatively to the medication.

• You can also use pheromone wipes or spray on the carrier before the flight to lower his anxiety levels.
• There are also pheromone calming collars available that you can buy to calm down your cat for the flight.

Transporting Your Cat in the Cargo Hold

• Animals flown in the cargo area of airplanes are killed, injured, or lost on commercial flights each year. Excessively hot or cold temperatures in the cargo area, as well as poor ventilation and rough handling are often to blame for these incidents. [11] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source However, many cargo holds are now pressurized and have a certain level of climate control. Talk to the airline about any safety features in the cargo hold that will make your cat's travel more comfortable.

• Always travel on the same flight as your pet. You can confirm this by asking the airline if you can watch your pet being loaded into the cargo hold before getting on the flight.
• Look for early morning or late evening flights if you are traveling in the summer as this will be the cooler times of the day and make the cargo hold less hot and stuffy for your cat. Choose afternoon flights if you are traveling in the winter, as it will be less chilly in the cargo hold for your cat.

• You should also put a travel label on the carrier with the same information in the event the carrier, and your cat, get lost during travel.

• Your vet should give you a health certificate that confirms your cat is in good health and free of parasites. All your cat’s vaccinations should also be up to date, including his Rabies vaccination. [16] X Research source

• Be sure to give your cat a dose at home before the flight as a “dry run” to make sure your cat does not react negatively to the medication.

Expert Q&A

You might also like.

• ↑ http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/traveling_tips_pets_ships_planes_trains.html?credit=web_id110483989#airplane
• ↑ http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2013/aug/10/take-cats-out-of-the-bag
• ↑ http://www.vcahospitals.com/main/pet-health-information/article/animal-health/flying-with-your-cat/48
• ↑ http://www.transitionsabroad.com/tazine/0810/moving-overseas-with-pets.shtml
• ↑ http://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer/air-travel-consumer-reports
• ↑ https://www.wikihow.com/Trim-Your-Cat%27s-Nails

About This Article

To transport a cat by plane, be sure to book your flight early and call the airline to arrange for your pet's travel. When you call, be prepared to pay a fee and request the dimensions under the seats to ensure your pet carrier will fit under the seat in front of you. Before your flight, make a vet appointment so you can get a certificate of health and proof of vaccines for your cat. When packing for your flight, bring a harness and leash for your cat to make going through security easier. For tips from our Veterinary reviewer on making your cat comfortable during your flight, keep reading. Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Tips to make traveling with a cat easier

Traveling with a cat.

I t's reasonable to wonder how you travel with your cat . Especially if you're going on a long journey when you've only ever taken short car trips with your cat in the past. Your cat might not love traveling, but you can make it as low-stress as possible with some preparation.

Shop this article:  Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Travel Kennel ,  Sherpa Travel Original Deluxe Airline Approved Pet Carrier  and  Feliway Travel Calming Cat Spray

Traveling with cats long distances

However you need to travel with your cat, a carrier is involved. For many cat owners, the most challenging part of traveling with their pets is getting them in the carrier. Rather than hiding your cat carrier away until it's time to go on a journey, you can make it into a safe space by keeping it out all the time.

No need to draw attention to it; leave the door open, and your cat will eventually decide to explore. Most cats love finding hiding spots, and a carrier can make the perfect place to retreat to. You can make it even more of a fun place for your cat to hang out by occasionally putting a few treats and toys inside. Once your cat gets used to their carrier, getting them in it isn't such a hassle, and they're more likely to feel relaxed once they're in there.

Traveling with cats in a car

You're most likely to find yourself traveling with your cat by car , whether you're popping down the road to the animal hospital or moving cities. It's easy to keep your cat comfortable when traveling by car, but don't expect your feline friend to love it.

• Choose a suitable carrier:  Hard-sided cat carriers are the best option when traveling by car with your cat because they offer some protection in the event of a collision. Make sure it has plenty of ventilation, so your cat doesn't overheat. The carrier should be large enough to fit your cat comfortably. Don't get a carrier that's larger than you need because it's more challenging to carry and fit in your car.
• Secure the carrier:  It's best to position your cat's carrier on a car seat rather than in the footwell. Your cat can either travel on one of the back seats or the front passenger seat. Thread the seatbelt through the handle on top of the carrier and buckle it up to secure the carrier. Then it can't move around if you turn sharply or brake suddenly.
• Make your cat as comfortable as possible:  Put a small crate pad or a soft blanket at the bottom of the cat carrier to make your cat feel more comfortable inside. If they have a favorite blanket, use it. Don't wash it first so that they're comforted by the familiar scent.
• Prepare for comfort breaks:  If you're going on a long journey, you need to get your cat out of the carrier at some point to drink and go potty. Ensure the car windows and doors are all closed before you let your cat out of the carrier, and consider using a harness to keep your cat safe. Bring water and a travel bowl with you, and consider using a disposable litter box .

Traveling with a cat on a plane

Don't travel by air with your cat unless necessary, such as a permanent move. When only going away for a few weeks, it's best to leave your cat in the care of a pet sitter or at a cattery. If you must travel with your cat by plane, choose an airline that lets you bring your cat into the cabin rather than in the cargo hold.

• Check airline requirements:  All airlines have requirements for transporting pets. Some don't let you travel with kittens under 16 weeks, some don't fly flat-faced cats and most need to see up-to-date vaccination records. Also, check your specific airline's carrier size requirements.
• Prepare for taking your cat through security:  When traveling with your pet in the cabin, you need to take them through security. Airlines must check cat carriers like luggage . You need to have your cat securely harnessed while the carrier is x-rayed. You can also arrange a secondary screening not to remove your kitty from its carrier.

What you need to buy for traveling with your cat

Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Travel Kennel

This hard-sided carrier is perfect for car travel. It is comfortable for pets up to 10 pounds.

Sold by Amazon

Sherpa Travel Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Pet Carrier

An airline-approved carrier that fits the dimensions required for in-cabin pet transport. It is comfortable for pets up to 16 pounds.

Feliway Travel Calming Cat Spray

If your cat gets stressed while traveling, Feliway's pheromone-based spray may have a calming effect. It seems to work well for some cats and not for others, but it's worth a try. 

Sold by   Amazon

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Lauren Corona writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

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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Road Trips and Car Travel With Cats

Author: LeeAnna Buis, CFTBS, FFCP

Published: April 17, 2024

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

During the summer months and around the holidays, many of us head out on road trips and consider taking our feline family members along.

Summer is also a peak time for relocating across town or across country.

The problem is that most cats don’t feel safe in the car. They may cry or yowl, hide in their carrier, and even soil due to fear. That means an unpleasant trip for them and you.

It is possible to help your cat feel more secure in the car. Some may even learn to love it. We’re going to walk you through the steps to desensitize your cat to being in the car.

We’ll also recommend travel items to bring in the car and for a hotel stay so that you both have a safe and comfortable trip.

Skip to section:

• How to get your cat comfortable with car travel
• How to use a litter box when you travel – and will your cat use it?
• Where to stay when traveling with your cat and what to consider
• Special travel considerations for sick cats
• Be prepared for emergencies while traveling

Getting Your Cat Ready for a Road Trip

Step 1: get your kitty feeling comfortable in their carrier..

If they're going to ride in the car, like you, they’ll need to be safely “buckled up” to protect not just them but everyone in the car and on the road.

After all, unrestrained cats can be a distraction, interfering with your ability to steer or brake, and even become a dangerous projectile in the event of a crash or sudden stop.

What if your cat is wearing a harness and leash? If the car is moving, I still say keep them secure in a carrier. If you want to let them stretch their legs on the harness and leash while the car is stopped and windows are up, go for it. Just keep in mind that you’ve got to get them back in the carrier when you start moving again, and they may not love that.

It could be less stressful for everyone to stick with the carrier in the car and try the harness and leash INSIDE your hotel or destination. More on the dangers of letting your cat out of the car on their harness and leash later in the article.

So, your first step starts well before your trip. Spend some time training your cat to love their carrier – we have an article on that process – before the big travel day arrives.

Don't have a carrier for your cat yet? Check out our carrier recommendations, including carriers that are crash-test certified . If your cat is going to be spending a lot of long hours in the car, you may opt for a larger carrier than normal. We cover that, too. Just keep in mind you’ll want that carrier sooner rather than later, so you can use it during the pre-travel training.

Step 2: Get your cat feeling comfortable in the car.

Now that your kitty feels better in their carrier, it’s time to help them feel comfortable in the car. Here are some steps to help you do that.

Pro Tip: Car acclimation is best done with two people … one to drive the car, the other to pet, praise, and treat kitty. It can be done with one person, too, but very carefully.

You’re going to do short sessions in the car – your cat dictates how long the sessions will be. The number of sessions depends on how quickly your cat gets comfortable. The main thing is that you don’t want to push your cat past their comfort zone. Your cat should always be calm.

You might be thinking that even if your cat is scared, leaving them in the car in spite of their fear will eventually show them they don’t have to be afraid. Nope! That’s not how cat brains work. Instead, think of it as starting at a really low intensity so your cat doesn’t have to be scared. As they’re ready, you slowly turn up the intensity.

If you turn it up too far and they get nervous, just end the session and lower the intensity for the next session.

Show them there’s no reason to be afraid because you’re not going to push them too far. And they’re getting good things through the entire process, so you’re actually turning a scary thing into a positive thing.

Take your cat out to the car in their carrier – covered on three sides with a towel or blanket for security.

With the car parked and not running and the doors and windows closed (weather permitting), sit in the back seat with your cat in their carrier. Partially open one of the carrier doors if you can do so without your cat trying to get out.

Then, make good things happen. Give treats (make sure it's a treat they love ), pets, praise, and show them this is a positive experience. Do this for just a few minutes (or longer if your cat is really enjoying it). Then, take them inside and end with treats and love. You’ll continue these sessions, gradually making them longer as your cat is comfortable, until your cat seems nice and calm, spending time in the car while in their carrier.

Next, you’ll turn up the intensity a bit by starting the car. Make sure the radio is off or very low (cats find classical music calming). And repeat the previous step.

Spend a few minutes in the back seat making good things happen for your cat while the car is running. If the engine really scares them, keep it short — just 1 minute with some treats. Again, you can gradually increase the length of time your cat is in the car, getting good things while the engine is on.

Caution: If your car is parked in your garage, either open your garage door or move your car out of the garage. Carbon monoxide is very dangerous for both of you!

Once your kitty is doing well with the car on, it’s time to turn the intensity up again. Time for a short drive.

Note: If they’re too nervous to eat treats, they’re probably not ready for this step. Back it up and spend more time on the previous steps.

It may just be pulling out of the driveway in the first couple of sessions. That’s just fine. You’ll work up to longer drives. And your cat will learn that being in the car doesn’t mean going to the vet. Never push these drives further than your cat is comfortable with. Also, be sure to drive calmly and go easy on the gas pedal and brakes.

Since each cat and each situation are different, it could take anywhere from a few sessions to several months for a cat to feel calm during car travel.

Car Travel Logistics With Cats

Will a cat use a litter box in a car.

Jumping right down to “business,” … depending on the duration of your travel adventures with kitty and where you’re winding up, you’re going to have to deal with litter box accommodations. This is the case both when you’re on the road and when you get to your hotel or destination.

Just because you give your cat access to a box doesn’t mean they’ll use it, especially if they’re nervous.

Cats don’t like to eliminate when they feel unsafe. They'll likely choose to do their business once you get to your destination. It’s nothing to worry about unless they go more than about 24 hours without peeing. At that point, call your vet and see what they suggest.

When I moved with my cats, and we had 8-hour days in the car, they held it all day and most of the night.

If they’re willing, you can help your cat take care of business on the road in a few different ways.

First, get them a good travel litter box. You’ll use the same litter they use at home, and (perhaps) even a litter attractant.

A good travel litter box will be large enough for your cat to fit in yet small enough to fit in their carrier. It will also be waterproof and sturdy. You can use a small plastic litter box or there are also disposable litter box options available.

We have travel litter box and large carrier recommendations here .

Set the travel box up in your home as an alternate option before your trip so your cat can get used to it. Don’t replace your regular boxes with the travel box, though. Have all options available.

If Your Carrier Can't Fit a Litter Box

Letting your cat out of a carrier to use a box placed in the car isn’t ideal. I actually rescued a kitten from the roadside once without a carrier. That kitten ended up inside my dashboard. So, if you think your cat can’t hide in dangerous places within the confines of your car, you’re wrong.

If your trip isn’t too long and their carrier isn’t large enough to fit a litter box, you can go with a larger litter box that they can use at the hotel or destination.

Note: If your cat uses the smaller travel litter box on the road, don’t consider replacing your larger boxes at home. Tiny boxes are not ideal and don’t fit your cat’s instinctual needs. They’re not a good long-term option. They’re the lesser of two evils when you’re traveling — the other evil being your cat peeing in the carrier.

Should You Let Your Cat Go Outside?

My vote is no unless you have a cat who is completely comfortable with travel, being in new places, and seeing and hearing strange people, pets, and sounds.

The first concern is that no harness is 100% escape-proof. If your cat gets scared, they can and will get out of that harness and take off.

Second, they’re going to be surrounded by newness — smells, sights, sounds, things you can’t control. Even if they don’t get scared, the idea that you’ll be able to get them to focus on peeing at that moment isn’t very likely. Cats don’t pee and poop on cue the way dogs can. It’s safer to keep them in the car.

What Do You Do With Your Cat When You Have to Go?

If the temperatures aren’t too hot or cold to leave your cat in the car, just leave them in their carrier and go about your business. Just make it quick!

Cover three sides of the carrier so they feel more secure and are less of a target for theft. Use a light cover (blanket) for warm days and a heavier cover for cooler days. Both should still allow for airflow.

It's usually safe between about 40–65 degrees F (4–18 degrees C), though every cat and every situation will be different, so use this as a rough guide.

Talk to your vet about more specific safe temperature ranges for your cat based their age, breed, and any chronic medical conditions they may have or medications they may be on. If the temperatures are outside of that range, you’re going to have to take some precautions when making your own pit stops that take you away from your car.

In some cases, it may be possible for you to bring your cat into the bathroom with you in their carrier.

Quick tips if you must leave your cat in the car

• Some cars now have pet mode , like Telsa, Chevrolet Bolt, Rivian, and other Form and BMW models. Caution: If you decide to leave your engine running in a gas-powered car, be aware that car engines and air conditioner compressors can and do fail, leading to excessively hot temperatures building up in the car quickly. Similar malfunctions can happen in EV cars, too, and if the battery dies, the cooling system will shut off.
• If leaving your car and running the A/C or heat isn’t possible or practical, pre-cool or pre-heat your car the best you can by running the system on high for several minutes before you get out. Then, be quick!
• Move their carrier from the back seat to the back floor. Since hot air rises, it should be a bit cooler on the floor. There are fans made for keeping pets cool in the car , but we really can't overstate this: pets should never be left in a closed car, even in the shade or with cooling devices. In this case, it's simply for a quick amount of time.
• Park in the most well-shaded spot you can find.
• Park with your front windshield facing the sun and put up a reflective windshield sun shade like this one .
• Cracking the windows doesn’t make a huge difference, but it also doesn’t hurt (so long as your cat is securely in their carrier and there’s no danger of someone reaching into your car and stealing them and your stuff).
• Make sure you leave your cat plenty of water.
• If it's cold outside, add a warm blanket or fleece to your cat's carrier for them to snuggle up. If it's sunny, move the carrier to a sunny spot in the car.
• Be as quick with your stop as possible. If it’s a food break, get it to go from a drive-thru and eat it in your car.

Where to Stay When Traveling With Your Cat

Road trips and long-distance moves with cats will often require hotel stays. But not all hotels, motels, or rentals are pet-friendly. And just because they say they’re “pet” friendly doesn’t mean they’re “cat” friendly. So, plan ahead. Call to confirm they take cats and reserve the room or rental in advance.

Pro Tip: “Pet-friendly” means other pets likely stayed in that room recently! Not everyone uses flea and other parasite protection on their cats and dogs. Make sure your cat is protected before heading out on the road! Learn more about safe and effective parasite prevention for your cat , and talk to your veterinarian.

What to Do With Your Cat in the Hotel or Rental

Once you’re out of the car, you’re faced with a question. Do you let your cat out in the hotel or rental to explore, or do you keep them confined? There’s a lot that goes into the answer. Here are some things to consider:

Is your cat relaxed in new places? Being in their carrier in the car is different than being in a completely new room with smells and places to hide.

Does your cat chew, climb, or otherwise destroy things? I couldn’t let my cat into a new space without putting cord protectors on every cord, or they’d be chewed in a matter of minutes.

Are there hiding places you can’t get to or unsafe spaces your cat can reach? The last thing you want is your cat stuck in the vents of a hotel or squeezing through that tiny hole in the wall behind the fridge in your rental. It happens.

Is it clean? Not to get gross, but you may not want your cat rolling around on a motel floor or getting under the bed.

Is it safe from toxins? There could be rodent traps or pest poison in the room that could be dangerous for your cat.

Is there any chance they’re going to pee on something? Yep, it happened to me on my road trip. My cat was stressed and peed all over the fabric carrier, and it soaked through to the bed. Talk about embarrassing. And there's sometimes an additional cleaning fee for mishaps like this.

Confinement for Safety

I like the idea of bringing along a much larger, collapsible pet pen for overnight use. They’re plenty big enough for a good-sized litter box and everything your cat needs. There’s even room to play. Just make sure you get one with a top, or your cat will jump right out.

If you want to let your cat out on a harness and leash or heavily supervised, you have the option. But you’ve got the pet pen as a backup just in case you need it. You never know how a cat is going to react in a new space, especially when you’re sleeping or in the shower and they’re unsupervised. Here are a few great options:

Available at:

Travel Considerations for Cats With Chronic Health Issues

Before striking out on the road for a long trip or moving with a cat who has a chronic medical condition or is on long-term medications — like diabetes , hyperthyroidism , chronic kidney disease , or heart disease — there are a few precautions you should take.

• Make sure your cat had a recent (ideally within the past month or so) exam with their vet. You’ll have more peace of mind knowing that their condition is as well managed as possible and that they’re as healthy as can be before hitting the road with them. Your vet will also have recommendations for making their trip as comfortable and safe as possible.
• Bring a copy of your cat’s medical records with you! This should include recent exam notes, laboratory test results, and medication/supplement names and dosages. Your vet can often print these out (with enough notice), and they may even subscribe to an app or other service that allows you to keep updated copies of such records with you always on your phone. This will make visiting another vet on the road much easier.
• Especially for cats with known chronic health concerns, it’s a good idea to know about a few vet hospitals along your route and in the area of your destination before you head out. See the vet locator tools listed in the next emergency section to start searching.
• If your cat is on a special prescription diet, like for their kidneys, make sure to stock up on it from your vet before leaving. It’s not always easy to get prescription diet refills when you’re away from home. You should take enough with you to last for the duration of your trip PLUS an additional (at least) 2 weeks.
• Similarly, be sure to stock up on your pet’s medications and supplements, as well as any supplies you need for them. This would include needles and a travel-sized sharps container (or larger needle container ) for safely disposing of and storing used needles for diabetic cats, pills for blood pressure, overactive thyroid, and any other chronic medications. Again, you should take with you enough to last for the duration of your trip PLUS an additional (at least) 2 weeks.
• If your cat is diabetic and on insulin, don’t forget a cooler and ice packs to help keep it cool while in the car. You can also look into a cooler that plugs into your car’s cigarette lighter or USB, like these: Cooluli Mini , Wagan 14L , or the Wagan 24L (which could even store some of your food and drinks for the road). Pro Tip: Depending on the type of insulin your cat is on, you may be able to get an insulin “pen” that may be more stable outside of the fridge and easier to administer to your cat. It's still advisable to use a cooling case for the pens . Talk to your vet to see if an insulin pen is an option for your cat — it isn’t for all cats, but if it is for yours, it could be a great travel (and even long-term) solution for you.

Emergencies on the Road With Your Cat

It’s a good idea to plan ahead and map out a few 24-hour Emergency Clinics on your route, just in case. Try this vet emergency locator .

Have your hometown veterinary clinic number handy, too. For less serious issues, call them first. They may be able to give you advice or let you know if it’s a true emergency.

Make sure you have a card in your wallet or attached to your cat’s carrier with your cat’s name, the number where you can be reached during travel, and an emergency contact who is not traveling with you. If your cat has medical issues, you should list those as well or the contact info for your veterinary clinic. If there’s an accident, your car is stolen, or something happens where you’re separated from your cat, emergency services will have options.

I just got this great set for myself (featured below). The keychain says “pet home alone,” with instructions to look in your wallet for a card with emergency contact info. It’s meant to notify emergency services if you’re in an emergency situation and someone needs to care for your pet at home. In this case, you’d just include a note on the card that you’re traveling with your cat in the car.

It’s also vital to ensure your cat is microchipped and the contact information is up-to-date (including a way you can be reached on the road).

First Aid on the Road

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

We encourage you to leave a comment below if you’ve got any tricks, tips, or products you’ve used that made car travel with your cats easier. Best of luck on your travels or your move. Have fun and be safe! 

About the author

LeeAnna Buis, CFTBS, FFCP

LeeAnna Buis has adored cats her entire life and thought she knew them inside-out and sideways. But it wasn’t until she worked with a feline behavior consultant that she fully understood how incredible, complicated, and inspiring cats really are. Literally, that day, she made a career change knowing she wanted to give other cat parents the same experience of truly “seeing” and appreciating their cats. Now, she works virtually with cat parents all over the world through Feline Behavior Solutions and Preventive Vet.

LeeAnna earned her certification through Animal Behavior Institute, earning the CFTBS designation. She is a certified Fear Free® trainer (FFCP), a training professional member of the Pet Professional Guild (PPG), and a member of both the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) and Cat Writer’s Association (CWA).

More about LeeAnna Buis, CFTBS, FFCP

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