How Do You Travel With A Cat

Are There Details I Should Attend To When Booking My Flight

Some airlines restrict how many pets may travel in the cabin or on a particular flight, and they may have certain flights on which no pets can fly in the cabin. Book your travel early to ensure a spot for your cat. When choosing your seat, be aware that you will not be able to sit in an exit row nor against a bulkhead . Try to travel non-stop if possible as layovers and transfers only add to what will be a long day for both you and your cat.

Things You Don’t Know About Travelling With Your Cat

Is traveling with your cat a stressful period for you? Well, there is no secret that many felines are usually anxious while traveling. Some cannot tolerate car rides or flights, while others can. Therefore, knowing your cat better will help you decide how to make traveling easier for them. Furthermore, some things can only be learned through trial and error during cat training. Sometimes as a pet owner, you might think you know all about traveling with your cat. But, here are ten things you don’t know about traveling with your cat

• Use the Appropriate Carrier

Before starting your journey, make sure your cat will have a space to call it’s own. Cats are territorial, and it’s fair to help enhance this for them. Get your cat a comfortable, spacious carrier that allows free circulation of air and visibility. Remember, cats are curious, and it would be appropriate to use transparent backpacks in this case. A clear cat bag ensures your cat can observe the environment from a familiar place. Thus, constantly using the backpack will ensure that your cat is not afraid of venturing into new territories while traveling.

• Consulting your vet for medication

• Get your cat microchipped

An escape is what cats do when threatened. To resolve this, get it micro-chipped for easy relocation in case of an escape. Altogether, you can have a current photo of your cat with you if it happens to escape.

• Dress your cat

• Hold your cat’s food

• Proof of ownership and vaccination

• Get a cat-friendly hotel

Maximum Carrier Size Allowed In The Cabin

Read Also: How Many Human Years Do Cats Live

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 . 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.

Pack The Right Necessities

Cats that have medical issues may need special preparations prior to the long trip. Before leaving, ask if your veterinarian can prescribe aids for calming anxiety or treating motion sickness. “There are really safe prescription anti-anxiety medications called trazodone or gabapentin. Simply giving a dose two to three hours before the stressful eventand even the night beforewill help keep your cat happy and stress-free,” Dr. Lee says. “Note, if your cat drools a lot during car rides, that may be a sign of motion sickness.”

Make sure that you also pack a first-aid kit, your cat’s medications, and other necessities like food, treats, water, and a kitty litter tray. Bring along copies of their veterinary records, such as proof of vaccination in case you are going across the border. Like us, cats can get bored, so if your car ride is several hours long or even days, you will need to prepare for stops along the way. Does your reserved hotel room allow pets? How often will you provide bathroom breaks for your cat? Always have a plan that considers your cat’s needs and talk to your veterinarian if you are not sure how to plan for a long road trip.

You May Like: Cat Age Compared To Human

Keep Your Cat Safe In And Out Of The Room

Being in a new place can make your cat anxious, and an anxious cat can be unpredictable. Because of this, we suggest opening the crate after attaching your pets leash so they dont escape. If you dont plan on using a leash, carry your cat inside while still in the carrier.

Once in the room, check for any hiding spots. If you have a Houdini cat, think about keeping them contained in the bathroom, so you dont lose them. If you go in or out of the room, place your cat back in the crate to prevent them from running out.

Does British Airways Share American Airlines Pet Policies

British Airways, the United Kingdoms

largest airline, requires vented carriers large enough for your cat to stand up, turn around, and lie down in. British Airways only transports cats in its cargo areas.

The carrier must be strong enough to withstand collapse, and you must attach food and water containers which are refilled from the outside of the carrier.

Read Also: How To Get Cat Pee Out Of Hardwood

Tips For Cat Car Travel

Tips For Travelling By Air

Travelling by air is in many ways a simpler option than by car. However, it is extremely important to check with each airline as to their policies for carrying pets varies. This might influence your choice of airline, as some are more pet friendly than others.

If your pet is small enough, they may be allowed in the passenger cabin but must be kept under the seat, not all airlines allow this, and it can even vary by time of year. So be sure to ask all the right questions before you book your flights.

When you do book your flights, you must advise the airline at the same time that you will be travelling with a pet.

Airlines have strict rules about the type of carrier your pet can travel in, so be sure to ask about that too and make sure you have one that complies. The carrier should be large enough for your pet to comfortably lie down and have adequate padding for comfort. There are specific rules for carriers that are allowed in the cabin, so again, be sure to ask.

Many vets advise a mild tranquilizer for your pet before air travel. There are sprays for the carrier that relieve anxiety. Be sure to ask your vet about this and any other tips he or she may have.

You May Like: What Was Gargamel’s Cat’s Name

Making Other Travel Preparations

Do American Airlines Pet Requirements Vary By Segment

American Airlines carries show cats to competitions and sends children with cats home from vacation. American Airlines flies cats and their pet fish.

Their professional flight attendants are dedicated to the safety of every animal they transport to any of their hundreds of destinations. American Airlines contracts some transatlantic flights to British Airways and Finnair.

You May Like: What Age Can A Cat Be Declawed

Travel Safely With Your Pet By Car Airplane Ship Or Train

When making travel decisions, choose what is safest and most comfortable for your pet. For instance, unless you’ll be able to spend a lot of time with your dog, they’ll probably be happier at home than tagging along on your trip. As a rule, cats are almost always better off in their own home.

But if you have decided it’s best to bring your pet along, follow our tips for a safe and low-stress trip.

Maximum Number Of Pets Allowed

Maximum number of pets allowed

Customers can send up to two pets in the same kennel in the baggage compartment following these conditions:

• Only fully weaned puppies or kittens from 12 weeks to 6 months can be placed together in the same kennel
• Both animals must be of the same specie
• Two pets travelling in one kennel are counted as two pets regardless of combined weight.

You’ll need to contact Air Canada Cargo Opens in New Window no more than 30 days or less than 7 days prior to your anticipated travel date if youre travelling with more than two pets.

Also Check: Calico Tabby Mix Personality

How To Sedate A Cat For Travel

First, discuss sedating your cat with your vet. This is very important. Do not try to self-prescribe medicine for your cat.

The vet can prescribe the right sedative and dosage based on their knowledge of your cat. Or at least ask your vet for recommendations for an over-the-counter cat sedative.

• Administering meds to a cat isnt easy. You might need help with the process.
• Wrap your cat in a towel, small blanket, or pillowcase. This is to protect you from getting scratched.
• With a firm grip, lightly squeeze the jaw to open your cats mouth.
• Push the pill into the side of your cats mouth.
• Gently grasp the jaw with one hand and stroke underneath the chin with the other hand. This should activate the swallowing action in your cat.
• Stay in this position for a few then release your cat. Once the cat starts to chill, assist the cat into the carrier.
• Take off on your journey.

Make Your Cats Carrier A Home Away From Home

Many people keep the carrier in the basement or garage, and only get it out right before a trip to the veterinarian. So, your cat probably does not like the carrier or feel it is in a safe or preferred place. Instead, make the carrier a part of your home environment. This way your cat sees it as a safe place and learns to associate positive experiences with the carrier before being transported in it. Here are some ways to help your cat become more comfortable with the carrier:

Don’t Miss: Dogs Allergic To Cinnamon

On Which Flights Can I Travel With My Cat Or Dog

Your cat or dog can travel with you if you’re travelling on:

• A flight operated by Air Canada or Air Canada Rouge
• An Air Canada Express flight operated by Jazz.

Codeshare Flights and Flights with Other AirlinesIf your itinerary includes a flight that is be able to travel with your pet.For the specific terms and conditions of any or our codeshare partners or other airlines sold on aircanada.com, visit the operating carrier’s website directly.

Increase Your Chances Of Success When Traveling With Cats

First, stick with your kittys preferred brand of litter. Cats can be finicky about fragrance and consistency of litter, so the fewer changes you introduce, the better.

If your destination is a home rather than a hotel room, consider confining your cat to just one or two rooms to reduce the chance that your cat forgets where youve placed the litter box.

Its normal for cats on the go to eat and drink a little less than usual, even if youre on the road for several days. Dont be concerned if your cats output is less than what youre used to at home.

In addition, many healthy cats will choose to wait until the evening to use the litter box, even if one is available in the vehicle during the day. Just make sure the litter box is the first thing you set up upon arrival!

While your pet may be happiest if you and your comfortable lap just stayed put, there are times when you have to take your cat along for a road trip. Understanding your travel litter box options can make the ride much easier for you and your cat.

Recommended

Also Check: Will A Hawk Eat A Cat

Use A Calming Diffuser

Use Comfort Zone Spray & Scratch Control Spray at least 15 minutes before putting the cat inside the cat carrier. Spray the inside of the carrier: one to two sprays in each corner, on the floor, and on the ceiling. Comfort Zone products release an odorless vapor that mimics your cat’s natural calming pheromones.

Before you leave, snap a Comfort Zone Calming Collar around your kitty’s neck. Be sure the collar fits snuggly with no more than two fingers’ width between the cat’s neck and the collar. The collar releases those same calming pheromones as the control spray, and they work well together. The collar also has a quick-release feature in case your cat becomes entangled.

Cats’ stress levels are affected by new or unfamiliar scents and spaces, and you won’t want her to start spraying or scratching the furniture where you’re visiting. Bring along a Comfort Zone Calming Diffuser to use in a friend’s or family member’s home, or even in your hotel room.

Understand The Costs Of Each

Even though you can’t buy an extra seat for your cat, youll 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 and JetBlue . 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.

Also Check: Moving Cats Litter Box

Choose A Restraint Or Carrier

Its best to keep your pet contained during the drive, and since most cats dont love harnesses, a carrier or crate may be best. They come in many different sizes and styles, so you can pick the best option to fit your pet and car. However, if youre flying, make sure to check with your airline and use whatever they recommend. We suggest choosing a crate with a wide opening so its easier to get them inside. If scratching is an issue, choose one made of hard plastic instead of fabric. Lastly, if your pet is prone to car sickness, select one thats easy to clean with a solid tray on the bottom so you can slide it out and wipe it down. No matter what kind of crate you choose, make sure your cat can sit, stand and turn around inside.