Flying with your pet might sound overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be! If leaving kitty at home with a petsitter or driving to your destination isn't feasible, a little extra planning can go a long way in creating a minimally stressful travel experience for you and your cat.
Here are our top tips for a safe, calm and comfortable flight with your kitty!
Review the airline's pet policy
Before booking your flight, carefully read over the airline's pet policy on their website, as rules around flying with pets can differ depending on the airline and aircraft. Cats and other small pets are usually allowed in the passenger cabin, as long as their carrier fits under the seat in front of you. If it's possible, opt to travel with kitty in-cabin with you, as cargo travel can be distressing for animals.
Most airlines charge an additional fee for in-cabin pets and require you to reserve your pet's spot over the phone or online well in advance. Be aware as well that airlines typically only allow one in-cabin pet per traveller.
Purchase the essentials
Well before your trip, make sure you have everything you'll need for a safe and comfortable flight with your cat, including a soft-sided carrier within the airline's size specifications. See our full list of essentials for flying with your cat here.
Talk to your vet
If you're flying domestically, your cat probably won't need vaccinations or health tests, but check your destination country's government website to see what veterinary documentation they might need. You can ask your vet about prescribing anti-anxiety medication for your cat and do a test run beforehand in case of side effects. They may also have advice on whether your cat should eat before the flight, especially if they will be taking medication.
Familiarize your cat with their carrier
Leave your cat's carrier out a few weeks before your flight so they can explore it and get accustomed to its scent. On travel day, turn the carrier into a safe space for your kitty with comfort items like their favourite plush toy and an old t-shirt that carries your scent. You can even spray the carrier with a calming aid from the pet store like Feliway.
Don't forget to label your carrier with your name, contact information, and both your home and destination addresses.
Arrive at the airport early
On the day of your flight, allow yourself even more time than you think you'll need. You can give your cat a chance to use in the litter box in the washroom (some airports even have a designated animal relief area for this purpose), and both you and kitty will have some time to decompress before boarding.
Plan for worst-case scenarios
Travel can be unpredictable, even when you're flying without your cat! Make sure to prepare for delays or unexpected changes to your transportation itinerary. For example, if your connecting flight gets delayed, are there any pet-friendly hotels nearby? Do you have enough cat food and litter in your carry-on if your travel day gets extended? If your budget allows, consider booking a direct flight to your destination to help reduce stress for both you and kitty.
Be adaptable
Keep in mind that if someone seated close to you on the plane has an allergy, you may be asked to change seats. Consider bringing antihistamines in your carry-on to offer any fellow passengers who are allergic to cats.
Treat your cat to travel-themed goodies
Cat box subscription (monthly and every-other-month plans available), meowbox
Whether or not your cat is involved in your upcoming travel plans, have adventure delivered right to their paws with a monthly or bi-monthly meowbox of cat toys and treats.