The Best Cat Carriers for Traveling with Your Feline Friend Inside Your Vehicle

Everything You Need to Know About In-Cabin Cat Carriers

If you’re planning a trip with your cat, an in-cabin cat carrier is an essential item. As the name suggests, these carriers are small enough to fit safely under an airplane seat or on your lap in the car. This allows your furry friend to travel with you inside the vehicle rather than being checked as luggage. From my experience traveling with cats, an in-cabin carrier makes the whole process much less stressful for both you and your pet.

Choosing the Right Size

The most important factor is getting a carrier that’s the proper dimensions for in-cabin travel. Most airlines require carriers to fit under the seat in front of you, so they can’t be much larger than 18 x 13 x 8 inches. Measure this space to be sure your carrier will fit. The carrier also needs to be sturdy enough that it won’t collapse or come open accidentally during travel.

It’s also crucial to consider your cat’s size. Cramming a large cat into a tiny carrier will be uncomfortable for both of you. On the other hand, a too-roomy carrier could allow anxious pacing. Look for a carrier that’s only big enough for your cat to stand up and turn around in while still feeling cozy.

Choosing Features

Here are some key features to seek in an in-cabin cat carrier:

1. Ventilation: Air holes are essential to keep your cat from overheating. They should be positioned high and low.
2. Roof and door latches: Secure latches will prevent accidental opening during travel. Avoid using slip knots that could come undone.
3. Comfortable padding: Plush interiors will provide cushioning from bumps and help your cat feel secure.
4. External pockets: These small pouches hold necessities like water, toys, and poop bags accessibly.

It’s also nice if the carrier is lightweight but sturdy, and has handles for easy carrying. A little toy or blankie inside can provide comfort during what may be a stressful experience for your cat.

Introducing Your Cat Gradually

The key is preparing your cat well in advance through positive reinforcement. From my experience, start by leaving the empty carrier out and letting your cat investigate at their own pace. Feed them treats or meals inside so they associate it with good things. Gradually increase the time spent inside until they’re comfortable for 20+ minutes.

During car/plane rides, cover the carrier with a small blanket to help mask visual stimuli. Talk calmly and provide toys/treats as a distraction from any anxiety. With gradual practice and treats every step of the way, even very nervous cats can learn to feel safe in their travel homes.

Tips for the Big Day

Here are some tips I’ve found helpful for trip day with an in-cabin carrier:

1. Feed them before you leave: An empty stomach is less likely to cause nausea.
2. Bring lid locks: Extra latches prevent accidental openings en route.
3. Bring extras: More litter, toys, food etc. than you think you’ll need. Delays happen!
4. Request a window seat: Seeing familiar people/sounds can help anxious cats.

Be patient and speak calmly during travel. With practice and prep, your furry friend should feel secure enough to relax in their carrier. Safe travels!

Potential Travel Problems

No travel goes perfectly, so it’s good to plan for potential kitty issues:

Motion sickness: Have anti-nausea meds from your vet just in case. Signs are drooling, vomiting.

Anxiety: Loud meows or crying may disturb others. Try calming aids like pheromone sprays.

Escaping: Thoroughly test all latches beforehand! Cover the carrier during security checks.

Deplaning issues: Carriers are occasionally checked by mistake. Ensure ID tags are secured to the carrier.

While preparing is key, don’t stress if something goes wrong – just do your best to keep your cat safe and comfortable. Their caregiver’s calm energy helps tremendously.

Finding the Perfect Carrier

There are so many carrier options out there, it can be kind of stressful to choose one, right? Basically, I’d suggest starting your search online. Look at reviews on sites like Chewy, Amazon, and specialty pet stores. Read what existing owners say about the size, quality, and how their cats responded.

You can also check local pet supply stores to get a feel for different carriers in person. I kinda like touching and opening the doors myself to test for sturdiness. Don’t forget to bring your cat along so you can test fit it with them!

With some research, I’m sure you’ll find the perfect in-cabin carrier match for your furry friend. Safe travels to you and your kitty! Let me know if you have any other questions.

Considerations for Choosing an In-Cabin Cat Carrier

Feature	Size	Materials	Ventilation	Security
Capacity	Small (up to 5 lbs), Medium (5-10 lbs), Large (10+ lbs)	Mesh, Solid plastic or fabric	Ventilated panels, Zippered side panels	Secure zip closure, Brackets or straps for mounting
Comfort	Enough space to stand and turn around	Soft, non-abrasive interior	Air flow throughout	Door/lid that remains upright when open
Durability	Impact-resistant plastic or metal frame	Stain/tear resistant fabrics	Secure, covering vents	Locking mechanism holds securely
Portability	Lightweight, compact size	Carry handles, backpack straps	Vents do not obstruct vision	Reflective strips for low light visibility
Cleanliness	‎removable‎, washable lining	Easy to clean surfaces	Vents do not trap odors or debris‎	‎Tight seal around door/lid‎

FAQ

1. Can I take my cabin on a plane?

   Yeah, basically you can travel with your cabin in the airplane cargo hold. However, some airlines have size and weight limits. Always check with your airline beforehand to make certain your cabin fits within their rules.

2. Is my cabin cat safe in the carrier?

   Mostly yes, cabin cats are pretty safe when secured in a carrier crate during travel. As long as the carrier passes requirements for strength and size, your feline friend will be protected. Still, cats hate carriers and might yowl the whole time, so some calming aids could help. Be sure to use a carrier specifically made for air travel.

3. How can I keep my cat calm in the carrier?

   There are sort of tricks to help relax cats for carriers. Try wrapping the crate with a warm fabric soaked in calming pheromones. Giving kitty something that smells like home can diminish stress. Also, tuck in a favorite toy or blanket. Perhaps try calming treats or ask your vet about kitty anxiety meds as a last resort. The key is getting your cabin used to the carrier before the big trip.

4. What size carrier is best for my cat?

   The appropriate size carrier depends on your specific cabin cat. However as a basic guide, choose one that allows your feline to stand comfortably yet isn’t too roomy. Extra space could cause them to feel anxious. Look for the wording “complies with IATA standards” on the label. Does your cat seem kinda cramped or do they have enough room to adjust positions? That’s a good indicator of proper sizing.

5. Is it safe to let my cat out of the carrier on long flights?

   Probably not a good idea to let your cabin roam free on the plane. While they might enjoy stretching their legs, it could put your pet, and others, in danger. Cats loose in the enclosed space may become scared or try exploring other seats. And what if turbulence hits when they’re not safely contained? For everyone’s sake, it’s best to keep them secure in the carrier throughout the journey.

6. Will my cat be cold at high altitudes?

   It’s possible your cabin may feel chilly on the flight due to lower cabin temperatures. Airlines keep it a bit nippy for passenger comfort at 30,000 feet. However, cats have fur to insulate them. Maybe pack a small blanket just in case they appear chilled. As long as kitty isn’t ill or elderly, the cold shouldn’t pose health risks. Their fur coat works wonders! Still, an extra layer of warmth can’t hurt.

   

7. What paperwork is required?

   Most airlines need current vaccinations proven by a health certificate. Some request rabbies and licensing tags too. Strange as it seems, you may even need an Export Certificate from countries like Australia. Don’t cut corners on paperwork – airlines enforce pet cargo rules strictly. Believe me, incomplete docs could force you into the luggage compartment with the cabin! Best to research transport laws well beforehand.

8. How much does it cost to fly with a cat?

   Costs vary greatly by airline and destination. As a rough estimate, expect fees of $100-300 each way for domestic flights within the US. Longer international routes pump numbers even higher. And that’s before factoring extra baggage charges if your cabin’s crate is too big for under-seat storage. Having a squished cat seems cruel, but cruising with one gets pricey! Maybe ask your vet about sedation to squeeze into a smaller carrier and save some scratch.