Traveling With a Cat While Flying

The most important thing you can do to ensure successful air travel with a cat is to plan in advance. Every aspect of the trip, from familiarizing your cat with its crate to learning the airline̵7;s pet-travel policies to anticipating potential health issues, needs to be vetted in advance. The goal is to minimize your animal̵7;s stress, and thus his potential to disrupt travel for you and your fellow passengers. Preparation is the key to successful air travel with your cat.

  1. Planning the Trip

    • Before you even book your flight, try to anticipate problems or issues that may arise. Your prime concern should be to make the trip as stress-free for your cat as possible. To this end, try to book a flight with the smallest possible number of connections, since each plane transfer ̵1; with its attendant noise and disruptive movement ̵1; will ratchet up your cat̵7;s sense of disorientation. Also, check your airline̵7;s pet-travel policy. Some airlines will allow you to carry on small pets as long as they can fit under a seat and remain in a carrier, while others require that they travel in the cargo hold. Find out, as well, if your airline requires proof of vaccinations or a health certificate for your animal.

    Getting the Vet's OK

    • Take your cat to the veterinarian during the two weeks before the trip. Most airlines require a health certificate within 10 days of departure. Ask your vet about health concerns associated with your destination ̵1; for instance, illnesses prevalent in the area -- and if any additional vaccinations are recommended for the cat. Ask if weather changes are likely to affect your cat. If possible, get the name of a good veterinarian at your destination. You can check the American Veterinary Medicine Association̵7;s website at avma.org for information on veterinarians.

    Outfitting for the Trip

    • The pet carrier is the most important piece of equipment for your trip. Choose one that is large enough for the cat to stand in comfortably, with room enough for a few favorite toys. Some cats prefer a soft-sided carrier. Write your name and contact information on the carrier in permanent marker you can be tracked if your cat gets lost. Make sure to update the tag on your cat̵7;s collar as well. Pack a litter scoop and related supplies, such as disposable plastic bags to collect waste. Plan to pack food and water from home as well ̵1; being careful to comply with all airline regulations ̵1; to minimize stomach upsets for your cat.

    Preparing Your Cat

    • This crucial step mainly involves making sure your cat is comfortable with its carrier. You should begin this process weeks in advance of the trip, ideally starting with small stints in the carrier and working up to longer stays over time. Work up to feeding and watering the cat in the carrier, with the door open, as well. Cats are protective of their comfort and don̵7;t like change, so as much as possible, you want to make sure the crate represents comfort and part of the routine.

    On the Plane

    • Have the cat travel with you on the plane, if possible. If this is not allowed, make sure the flight crew are aware of your cat̵7;s presence in cargo. Unless your cat is leash-trained, do not let it out of the carrier during the trip. There is no need to try to shoe-horn a mini litter box in the crate, since cats can ̶0;hold it̶1; much longer than humans ̵1; simply set up a litter area when you arrive at your destination, and your cat should be fine.