How to Travel on an Airplane with Your Cat
If you’re taking a trip on an airline, it’s best to leave your cat at home. Unless you’re relocating to another state, that is. It’s a known fact that most domestic pets, including cats, don’t like to fly.
But if you must place your furry friend on an airplane, you’ll need to know how to travel on an airplane with your cat so his/her experience can be the most pleasant it can be.
First off, there are many rules and regulations regarding traveling with your cat if the flight is within the United States. If you want to travel outside the states, there are an additional number of restrictions that apply. Be sure to find out everything you need to know when you book the flight to travel with your cat.
Rather than be packed into a cargo area of an airplane, your cat will be most comfortable if it can ride under your seat in the cabin. Except, to travel on an airplane with your cat, your feline can’t weigh more than fifteen or twenty pounds. If your cat isn’t at least eight weeks old and completely weaned from its mother, you can’t put it in a cabin of a commercial airplane either. You’ll also need to provide written proof from your veterinarian, dated within ten days of the date you and your pet will be traveling, that your cat is in good health. His or her vaccinations must be up-to-date as well. Some airlines might require proof that your cat has had a rabies shot recently too. But this rule mainly applies to dogs.
You’ll need to transport your cat to the airport in a suitable carrier that is sturdy. It must have a durable handle. It must also have adequate ventilation. The carrier must provide enough room so your cat can stand up, turn around, and lie down. Clearly mark your cat’s carrier with your complete name and address, your phone number, and your destination information. Use a permanent black marker and print “LIVE ANIMAL” in large letters on all the sides, and on the top of the carrier. Securely close the container after you’re placed your cat in it, but don’t lock it. This way, if your cat needs to be removed from its carrier in case of an emergency, it can be.
In order to provide the most safety during your travel with your cat, the carrier should be made of a hard material. Soft carriers are easier to fit underneath your airline seat, but they can’t provide much protection. Before you place your cat inside the container, cover the bottom with several layers of paper towels. The towels will act as a temporary litter for your feline.
If you don’t already have a suitable cat carrier, buy one at your local pet supply store. As you’re learning how to travel on an airline with your cat, you’ll learn that buying your feline a carrier is less costly than renting one from the airline.
In order to travel with your cat without messy spills and vomiting, avoid keeping food or water inside your cat’s carrier all the time. You feline will ride better if he or she doesn’t have a full stomach. You’ll need to provide periodic drinks of water and bits of food, especially if the trip is going to be long.
