Traveling with your pets can be daunting, especially if it’s your first time flying with a cat. Last week, I flew across the country with my two cats, and after sharing my experience on Marley’s Instagram, I received numerous messages from people planning to fly with their cats for the first time. Many were nervous and unsure what to expect. To help others in the same situation, I decided to write this guide on everything from pet-friendly airline policies to the best travel gear for your furry companions.
I flew with Southwest Airlines, but every airline has its own It’s important to check the specific guidelines of the airline you’re flying with to ensure smooth travel for you and your pet.
Preparing Your Cat for Air Travel
Should You Use Sedatives or CBD for Your Cat?
When traveling with cats, many pet owners wonder whether they should use medication or to keep their pet calm. This decision depends on your cat’s temperament and should be made in consultation with your vet. Personally, after discussing it with our vet, I chose not to use sedatives for my cats since they had already handled a road trip well. If you do choose to use sedatives, be sure to understand any potential side effects and risks.
Learn more about: Flying with a Dog from Europe to the USA
Alternatively, is a natural option to help reduce anxiety. While I didn’t use it, I’ve heard positive feedback from many cat owners. Choose vet-approved CBD brands for the best results.
Finding the Best Airline-Approved Cat Carrier
One of my biggest concerns was finding the right Southwest Airlines has specific size requirements for pet carriers, and it took me a while to find one that would fit under the seat. Ultimately, I went with a carrier that was slightly larger than the recommended size, but it worked out fine.
It’s essential to choose a for flights, especially one that fits under the seat. I’ll include a link to the carrier I used, which was ideal for the trip.
Should You Feed Your Cat Before the Flight?
Another common question is whether you should feed your cat before a flight. Some recommend withholding food and water to avoid accidents in the carrier, but I chose to feed Marley and Pumpkin because it was an all-day journey. However, if you’re concerned about your cat needing the bathroom mid-flight, consider lining the carrier with
You know your pet best, so make decisions based on their habits and how they handle travel.
Booking a Flight for Your Cat
Understanding Airline Pet Policies
Each airline has different rules for traveling with pets, so always check the specific before booking your flight. For Southwest Airlines, there’s a limit of one pet per passenger, so I had another person with me to take one of my cats. If you’re flying alone, check if your airline allows two pets in one carrier.
How to Reserve a Pet Spot on Your Flight
While it’s not mandatory, I recommend calling the airline to reserve a spot for your pet as soon as you book your flight. Airlines often have a limit on how many pets can be on board, so securing a spot early can help avoid issues later. Reserving a pet seat can provide peace of mind and ensure everything is set for your travel day.
Navigating the Airport with Cats
Traveling to the Airport: Uber and Rideshares
Before heading to the airport, make sure your is okay with having pets in the car. I called my Uber driver ahead of time to let them know I was bringing two cats, and they were fine with it. If you’re unsure, Uber offers a Which can be a safer bet when traveling with animals.
Getting Through Airport Security with Cats
Once you arrive at the airport, you’ll need to purchase a pet ticket (around $95 per cat) and go through security. I initially planned to request a private screening room, where you can take your cats out of the carriers in a secluded area, but due to time constraints, we opted to walk them through security ourselves.
Walking your cat through might sound nerve-wracking, but it went smoothly for us. The TSA swabbed our hands while we held the cats, and then we quickly placed them back into their carriers. If you think your cat might get scared or try to escape, waiting for a private screening room could be a better option.
Flying with a Cat: What to Expect During the Flight
Settling Your Cat on the Plane
Once through security, we boarded the plane, and the carriers fit perfectly under the seat. During the flight, both of my cats stayed calm and didn’t make much noise. If you’re worried about a vocal cat, consider using or bringing familiar items like a blanket or toy to comfort them.
Keeping Your Cat Comfortable on the Flight
The in-flight experience was much easier than expected. My cats adjusted quickly, and aside from a little nervousness on my part, the process was seamless. Whether you’re traveling short distances or on long-haul flights, ensuring your pet’s comfort is key to a
Making Air Travel Easy with Cats
Flying with a cat may seem intimidating, but with the right preparation, it can be much smoother than expected. From choosing the right to understanding your airline’s pet policies, taking the time to plan ahead will make the trip less stressful for both you and your furry friends.
If you have any additional questions or want advice on traveling by car with cats, feel free to reach out! I’ve traveled long distances with my cats by both plane and car and am happy to share more tips for pet travel.