A Guide to Flying with Two Cats
If you need to travel by air with your furry feline friends, flying with two cats can seem daunting. But with some planning and preparation, you can have a smooth journey. In this article, I’ll cover all the key things you need to know to take Fido and Fluffy along for the ride.
Carrier Requirements
All cats must travel in an approved carrier that meets airline standards. The carrier should be large enough for your cats to stand up and turn around comfortably but not too big as space is limited in the cargo hold. Look for a”cat carrier” labeled as meetng IATA (International Air Transport Association) size requirements. It’s also a good idea to bring a second empty carrier in case one gets damaged during travel.
From my experience traveling with cats, I recommend soft-sided carriers rather than hard plastic or metal ones. They provide more give if bumped around during handling. Also consider getting carriers with mesh windows on multiple sides for ventilation and to calm nervous kitties by allowing them to see out.
Health and Identification Requirements
Most airlines require cats to be at least 8 weeks old. They’ll also need updated vaccinations and a health certificate from your vet within 10 days of travel. Rabies and FVRCP vaccines are usually mandatory. It’s also a good idea to get feline leukemia and rabies titers done in advance.
Make sure each cat wears a securely fastened ID tag inside its carrier with your contact information in case of an emergency. I also like to attach a card with details to the outside of the carrier in a protective sleeve.
Sedation
Vets can prescribe mild sedatives to keep cats calm during the journey. However, airlines have different policies on transporting sedated animals. Some require a written declaration from your vet specifying the sedative used and ensuring the cat won’t be affected during take-off, landing or emergencies. Check with your airline well ahead of time about their sedation requirements.
In my experience, it’s best not to sedate cats unless absolutely needed as it comes with risks if not properly administered or wears off too soon. Calming treats and pheromone sprays can help anxious kitties feel at ease without the dangers of sedation.
Booking and Advance Notice
Most airlines allow a maximum of one pet carrier per passenger when flying with cats. So with two cats, you’d need two people traveling to take both furballs along. Always book early since pet space is limited. Provide advance notice when booking tickets that you’ll be bringing pets.
The cargo hold can get quite hot or cold depending on weather, so avoid very long connecting flights if flying with cats. Nonstop flights are preferable when possible. Try to schedule travel for times when weather is moderate to keep kitties comfortable.
Arrival at Airport
Get to the airport early. Most airlines require you to check-in cats at least 1-2 hours before your scheduled departure to allow time for paperwork processing and any transfers between flights. Present all required documents, carriers and follow airline staff instructions closely.
Try to keep cats in their carriers as much as possible before boarding to avoid stress from unfamiliar surroundings. Consider bringing along toys, blankets that smells like home or calming treats to settle cats for take-off and landing when they’ll be left alone in cargo.
In-Cabin vs Cargo Hold Travel
Most domestic flights only allow cats in the cargo hold for safety and logistical reasons. However, on some international routes, you may be permitted to fly with cats under-your-seat within the cabin for an extra charge if space and health/temperament requirements are met.
Travelling in-cabin allows you to be with your cats and is preferable for nervous pets. But cargo hold travel with controlled temperature/pressure is actually quite safe as long as carriers meet regulations. Just prepare cats with tasks and do your homework on airline animal transport policies.
Arrival at Your Destination
After landing, promptly retrieve your cats from baggage claim once bags are out. Avoid leaving them in carriers too long after arrival. Then get them home ASAP to familiar surroundings with plenty of affection, play, treats and water to recover from any stresses of flight.
Monitor them closely for signs of distress in the coming days. My cats were sometimes subdued after flights but soon bounced back to normal with rest and TLC. Consult a vet promptly if you notice any injury, unusual behavior or health changes following travel.
Tips for Multiple Cat Travel
When flying with two cats, some extra precautions are needed:
- Book extra early with proof of two pets/passengers to ensure adjacent seating/cargo space
- Consider boarding one cat if anxious about being in close proximity to others
- Place carriers side-by-side facing opposite directions to avoid stressful face-offs
- Line carriers with familiar-scented items like used blankets to provide comfort
With a bit of preparation and care, flying with your bonded cat crew can go smoothly. Pre-travel training and socializing them to carriers/car rides help too. But is it worth all the hassle and stress on the cats? You decide if the benefits outweigh the burdens.
Alternative Options
If flying with two cats seems like a major hassle, consider hiring a pet transportation service or asking someone to drive them to your destination. Another option is to board one cat with a trusted friend/sitter near the airport during your trip and return directly afterwards to lessen stresses on all involved.
Hope this guide gave you the rundown on what’s entailed when taking multiple furry flyers along for air travel. Please feel free to contact me if any other cat flying questions come up during your trip planning process. Safe travels with your pawssengers!
Important Considerations for Flying with Cats
| Consideration | Details |
|---|---|
| Carriers | Approved soft-sided carriers are required for cats to travel in the cabin. |
| Health records | Vaccination records and health certificates may be required depending on destination. |
| Sedation | Consult your vet about sedation options to reduce stress for anxious cats. |
| Cabin vs cargo | Cabin is safer for cats. Cargo holds are only allowedtemperatures. |
| Identification | Microchipping and collars with ID tags help reunite cats with owners if separated. |
FAQ
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How do I transport my cats on the plane?
Most airlines allow cats to fly in the cargo hold as long as they are in an approved carrier. The carrier should be big enough for your cat to stand up and turn around. Make sure to ask your vet for any health certifications that may be required. Contact the airline directly to understand their specific policies for flying with pets.
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Can I bring my cat into the cabin?
Usually cats are not permitted to travel in the plane cabin due to health and safety regulations. However, some airlines make exceptions for cats that can remain in an FAA-approved pet carrier under the seat for the entire flight. You’ll need to verify this with the airline beforehand. There may also be an extra fee for bringing a cat into the cabin.
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How do I prepare my cats for air travel?
Getting your cats accustomed to their carrier well beforehand is key. Let them play and sleep in it, and give treats when they go inside. Familiar scents can help reduce stress, so consider putting a favored toy or blanket in with them. Also talk to your vet about medications that might make them more calm during the journey if needed. On the day of travel, don’t overfeed them but still provide water until the flight.
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What should I bring with me?
Pack plenty of kitty litter, food, dishes, plastic bags for waste, leash/harness in case they need to exit the carrier during a stopover. Moreover, papers from your vet proving vaccines and health certificate. Bring contact phone numbers in case something unexpected happens along the way. Also pack favorite toys or treats to keep your cats occupied. Comfortable carrier and water bottle attachable to the inside are also critical.
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What if my cats get distressed during the flight?
Unfortunately, many cats find flying unpleasant and become upset in carriers. If they are really distressed, ask a flight attendant if you can quickly take one cat out at a time, on a leash, to gently pet and soothe in a bathroom or unused area. Otherwise try speaking softly to them and offer treats/toys through the ventilation holes. Contact the airline if problems arise so they can provide assistance on the ground if needed.
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What are some tips for the trip home?
On arrival, get your cats out of carriers as soon as airport allows in a calm, low-stimulation area to stretch and use litter box. Don’t force interaction with other pets or people yet – let them resettle in slowly. Watch for signs of dehydration, stress such as changes in eating/sleeping. Give extra affection and maybe ask your vet about anti-anxiety medication if they seem excessively freaked out. The first night home, keep them confined with litter, food/water to help unwind from travel.
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Is flying with cats safe?
When done right, flying with cats is absolutely safe. However, certain things could improve the situation or pose threats. For example, snaggled nails or open carriers may allow escape. Overly-anxious attendants can stress cats even more. Harsh weather, rough landings or unexpected baggage delays also increase risks. Proper training and adherence to protocols by all people involved helps make air travel a lot smoother. If in doubt, perhaps driving or taking a bus may offer a more laidback experience for your feline friends.