Do you already know that you are moving to another country and will have to travel with your cat by plane? Or perhaps you’re just casually planning an extended holiday and wonder if flying with cats on planes is even possible? Keep reading, as this blog post is for you!
The perspective of taking your cats on a plane might be extremely intimidating and stressful. I’ve been there, and I understand how you feel. But fret not. It can be done, and it doesn’t have to be awful.
We prepared an easy guide on travelling with your cat by plane. You will learn everything you need to know, from logistics and formalities to preparing your cat for the flight and maintaining their well-being throughout the flight. We are giving you the best tips and first-hand insights based on what we learned from flying with Kala several years ago. So, sit back and relax as we are ready to take off!
Preparing Your Cat for Air Travel: Essential Steps
To prepare your cat for plane travel, you can do several things long before the flight. Start as early as possible and go slowly. The more time you put into this phase, the better your cat’s chances of staying calm and well during your trip.
Desensitise Your Cat to Airplane Noises and Crowds
The airport will be noisy and crowded. If your cats don’t tolerate either of these well make sure you go through the desensitisation process. Expose your cat to the stressor, but do it slowly.
When it comes to noises, you can play audio (e.g. plane taking off, crowd cheering) during your cat’s feeding time or play sessions. Start with a level of noise your cat is comfortable with and increase it gradually. Ensure the activity is pleasant overall, and pay special attention to your cat’s body language. Don’t be afraid to back off if it becomes too much for your cat.
If your cat fears people, consider asking your friends for help. Invite some mindful people, ideally ones who know something about cats and can respect their boundaries. Let them spend time with your cat, feed them treats, and play. Teach your cat that people are not scary.
Leash Training Your Cat for Airport Security
That part is non-negotiable, as you will have to take your cat out of their carrier to go through the security check. The airport is big, and your cat will probably be scared and might easily freak out during that stage. Not having them on a leash is a perfect recipe for disaster, as the last thing you want is your cat running loose and hiding in some dark airport’s corner.
Try leash training your cat early. This post on walking your cat on the leash contains many useful resources explaining how to approach the topic. Make sure to check it out!
Aside from being critically important for your cat’s safety, leash-walking can also help in your desensitisation endeavour. In this blog post, you can read more about how leash-walking helped Kala overcome her extreme skittishness and shyness. I am convinced that investing time into walking her on the leash greatly contributed to how calm she stayed during our journey.
Choose and Introduce the Right Cat Carrier
Carrier bags are more than just a container your cat will need to stay in during the flight. They are your cat’s temporary home away from home, and they should provide your cat with some sense of safety and security. That’s why it is so important to introduce the carrier bag early and let your cat get used to it.
There are several smart tricks you can use to build positive associations. You can try feeding treats, or even typical meals, inside the carrier bag. On the other hand, you might try stuffing it with a cosy blanket and placing it in your cat’s favourite napping spot. Your cat will likely start treating it soon as a comfy bed.
Select the Best Treats for Stressful Situations
Stressed cats might refuse food and water. Given their small size and specific metabolic responses, this can quickly become a severe and potentially life-threatening issue. Even a relatively short time without food, as short as 2-3 days, can lead to a potentially life-threatening condition called hepatic lipidosis. On top of that, there is also a risk of dehydration.
Therefore, it is good to experiment with various snacks and meals before the journey. While it is recommended that you typically feed your cat high-quality wet food, it is good to be aware that popular brands available in most markets and dry food tend to have many additives. For that reason, these might be less healthy but more “delicious” food choices for your cat.
Of course, I’d rather my cats continue eating as usual. But if they decide to go on a hunger strike, I also want to make sure I have something they will likely go for. I’d rather they eat dry food or junky sachets for two days than not eat at all.
To encourage fluid intake, I recommend adding various liquid snacks to water. My cats love them, and as long as the water is not too diluted, they hardly ever resist the temptation.
I would suggest taking those dietary tips with some caution. Some cats with more sensitive stomachs might not tolerate any change to their feeding routine. Definitely check how your cat reacts to these new items before the important day. You want to make sure these changes don’t cause them diarrhoea or any other problems. In most cases, it should be just fine, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Use Calming Products to Ease Your Cat’s Anxiety
There are plenty of mild products on the market that might help your cat deal with stressful situations. Zylkene (casein) is one of the popular supplements available as tablets. Another option is using calming spot-on. We are particularly fond of Beaphar. Lastly, you can try some pheromones, such as Feliway. Whatever product you choose, make sure to start using it early (even 2-3 weeks before the flight) as they take some time to kick in.
Navigating Formalities for Cat Travel
Flying involves several formalities, and you must ensure these are done correctly. Otherwise, your whole trip might be cancelled at the last minute.
Find Cat-Friendly Airlines
Not all airlines allow pet transport; some only accept pets as cargo. So, finding the right company is the most important part of flight preparation.
Some pet-friendly companies that allow cats and other small pets to travel on board:
- KLM
- Lufthansa
- LOT
- Air France
- Finnair
Once you pick up the right flight, call customer services to confirm you can take your cat on this particular flight. Usually, only a limited number of animals might fly on the same plane, so you need to check for availability on your specific flight.
If everything is well, the customer service agent should be able to help you book your and your cat’s tickets. Ideally, book both simultaneously or, at the very least, speak to customer service to ensure you can add your cat to your reservation later. You don’t want to pay for your tickets only to discover that you can’t take your cat along on your flight.
Personally, Kala and I used Finnair, and we can really recommend it. The customer service was good, explaining all the requirements and assisting us in buying the tickers. Also, the cabin crew was very friendly and accommodating during the flight. I remember a lovely flight attendant who kept bringing Kala individually portioned cream. I didn’t have the heart to tell her cats shouldn’t drink that!
Ensure Your Cat’s Safety with Approved Carriers
During the flight, you will need to keep your cat under the front seat. Therefore, you will need a soft, collapsible carrier to fit in there. Different airlines have slightly different requirements regarding the carrier size, so make sure to check this info on their website before flying. Also, the carrier should be well-ventilated. Don’t forget to cover its floor with a towel or puppy pads in case your cat has an accident.
Prepare Required Paperwork for Flying with Cat
Depending on your country of departure, this will be an Animal Health Certificate or Pet Passport. This will need to be supplemented with your cat’s health booklet or other record clearly showing when they were last vaccinated against rabies. In some cases, you might also need additional documentation (e.g., a blood test for rabies antibodies). Make sure you check all this info properly. Use respected websites and ideally find a vet with experience preparing documentation for cats travelling abroad.
Remember about Vet Check
While you will need to see the vet before flying to get all the necessary paperwork, treat this visit as an opportunity for an additional health check for your cat. Ask your vet to check on your cat and discuss any health concerns you might have. You might also have a conversation about giving your cat additional calming medication (e.g. Gabapentin).
Planning for the Smooth Airline Experience with Your Cat
Some people plan their travels minutely, while others like going with the flow. Unfortunately, flying with a cat requires meticulous planning.
Organise the Perfect Airport Transfer for You and Your Cat
If you are using public transport, check if cats are accepted and if you need to buy them a ticket. If you are using a taxi, inform your driver or the company upfront that you will carry a car.
Find Pet-Friendly Hotels That Welcome Cats
Remember that “pet-friendly” often means “dog-friendly.” Contact your hotel to double-check that your cat will be welcome and ask if there are any additional fees.
Decide Between In-Cabin vs. Cargo Travel for Cats
Never go for cargo unless it is really the only option available (e.g., for big cats’ breads weighing over 8 kilograms). If you travel to a country that only allows pets to enter in cargo (e.g. the United Kingdom), consider other possible routes (e.g. flight to a more pet-friendly place followed by a ferry crossing).
Firstly, cargo transport is riskier and sadly, in extreme cases, it can even cost animals their lives. While I understand these cases are still relatively rare, I would not take a chance. You can find more info about the potential dangers of cargo travel in these two articles from Forbes and the Guardian.
Having said that, my main concern regarding cargo transport is not even safety but comfort. And in this regard, cargo travel will be far more stressful for your cat. Your kitty will be first handled by completely unfamiliar people and then left in an unfamiliar and presumably noisy place, all alone, for the whole flight. Doesn’t sound like fun!
Evaluate the Benefits of Stopovers During Long Flights with Your Cat
That is a tricky question, and it depends greatly on how far your original distance is. The answer seems obvious if you only travel for 3 or 4 hours. However, a stopover might not be a bad option if you travel longer.
In our case, we needed to choose between one 8-hour flight or two shorter ones. We ended up travelling with a stopover, which gave us around 2 hours to decompress between the flights. While it was a bit more tiring on my part, I was able to let Kala out of the carrier bag, give her food, and toilet her in peace. I would say it was worth it.
Packing Essentials for Your Cat’s Airplane Journey
The better you pack, the smoother and more relaxed your journey will be. Make sure you take everything you need and pack your bag in a logical and organised way. Those wet tissues you might desperately want to use to clean your cat’s puke might not be very useful if they end up at the very bottom…
- Wet tissues
- Tissues or kitchen towel
- Puppy pads
- Favourite blanket
- Your used T-shirt—your familiar smell might help your cat relax
- Disposable bags
- Hand sanitiser
- Bowl (ideally collapsible)
- Decent regular wet food you usually feed your cat with, ideally small packs
- Junk food and dry kibble, in case your cat goes on hunger strike
- Liquid snacks
- Pheromones in spray
- Collapsible litter box
- Some usual litter packed in a plastic bag
- Oxygen water—get mentally prepared that your stressed cat might scratch you
Preparing on the Day of Your Flight
OK, here comes the big day. Soon enough, it will also be behind you!
Limit Your Cat’s Food Intake
Avoid feeding your cat for about 2-3 hours before leaving home.
Tire Out Your Cat Before the Flight
Play with your cat to get them tired, and make sure you get them rid of all the excess energy they might have.
Stay As Calm as You Can
That’s probably the most important one. Cats are great at sensing our fear and anxiety, so try to relax for your cat’s sake!
Navigating the Airport with Your Cat
You and your cats are well prepared. With only a few checks, you’ll sit comfortably on board.
Arrive Early and Give Yourself Extra Time at the Airport
I would advise you to aim to arrive at the airport at least 3.5 hours before your flight.
Prepare Your Cat’s Documentation and Get ready for Check-in
Get your documents ready. Don’t get discouraged if the crew takes some extra time processing your documents; they just need to double-check everything.
Pass Security Control with Your Cat
Prepare yourself and your hand luggage as you normally would. Once you’re ready, take your cat off the carrier and ensure it still has its harness on. Then, just carry or walk your cat through the gate. It might be a good idea to take the blanket with you so you can wrap your cat in case it starts freaking out.
Find a Quiet Spot to Relax with Your Cat Before the Flight
Done, the worst is behind you. You have your documents checked, and you passed the security. Now it’s time to chill. Try to find a secluded space with fewer people. At this point, you might let your cat out. They might want to explore a bit or perhaps nap on your lap.
During our journey, Kala was very excited about the airport. We spent much time strolling around. At the same time, some cats might prefer to stay in their carriers and just chill. You know your cat best, so all you need to do now is observe their body language and chill out.
Take Your Cat to the Toilet
The most quiet and private space for your cat to use a litter box is… the actual human toilet. Your cat will feel more relaxed, and you will avoid people staring at you. Go inside the cabin and set the litter box up for your cat.
Keep Your Cat Hydrated Before the Flight
Try to give your cat some water before the flight. If they don’t drink, try our trick and mix a tiny bit of water with a liquid snack.
Keeping Your Cat Calm and Comfortable During the Flight
Remember, at this point, you’re not alone anymore; you already have flight attendants to assist and help you. Make sure they are aware you’re travelling with your cat.
In the carrier or on the lap? Making the Best Choice for Your Cat During Flight
Technically speaking, the cat should stay in the carrier bag. Practically, it all depends on your flight attendants and passengers sitting next to you. I suggest taking a moment to figure your situation out. If your fellow passengers seem positive about your cat, you can ask the flight attendant if it would be OK to let your cat out after the take off. Explain that your cat is leash-trained and will stay on your lap for the entire flight.
I did that on our first flight, and they let me have Kala on my lap. She slept peacefully the whole time, and I only had to put her back before landing. On our second flight, the crew member told me straight away that she needed to stay in the carrier under the seat. So, to me, it seems like a lottery.
Regularly Check on Your Cat During the Flight
Even if your cat needs to stay under the seat, keep checking on them throughout the flight. Some cats might also find it soothing if you talk to them.
Manage Toileting and Feeding Needs in Flight
Unless your flight is very long, try to avoid it. Toilets on planes are rather small, so it will not be very feasible.
Handle Accidents: Cleaning and Damage Control
If your cat has an accident, you can take it to the toilet for a basic cleaning and damage control. Try not to let your cat out at this stage. Remove whatever is dirty or soiled, replace the puppy pad, and return to your seat. At this stage, as long as it doesn’t stink and leak, it means it is clean enough.
Provide Water to Keep Your Cat Hydrated
If your flight is long, you can try placing a bowl with a tiny bit of water (and liquid sauce) in the carrier bag and removing it after a couple of minutes.
Stay Calm: Your Cat Can Sense What You Feel
Remember, your cat can sense you are stressed. So, be brave for your cat.
Assert Boundaries and Protect Your Cat from Unwanted Attention
That’s especially true if you have children travelling around, and unfortunately, I had some annoying situations while using various means of transport. Your cat is not a toy and is probably stressed enough already. You don’t have to tolerate anyone peeping inside your cat carrier, talking to your cat or, even worse, attempting to pet them. Sure, some cats might be cool about it. Many will not. Don’t be afraid to say politely that your cat is stressed, and all unwanted attention only stresses them more.
Post-Flight Care: Helping Your Cat Adjust After Travel
Yey, well done. You did it! Now it’s time for post-flight recovery.
Start with Toileting and Feeding Your Cat
Start with a toilet break. Set up the litter box. At this point, you can feed your cat. This is also a moment for more in-depth damage control and cleaning in case your cat has any accidents during the flight.
Give Your Cat Time and Space to Decompress
Once you arrive at home or the hotel, ensure your cat has space to decompress. Let them out of the carrier bag and allow them to explore if they want. Don’t be pushy; just discreetly check on them. Don’t try to cheer them up by cuddling and petting. Your cat needs a little bit of space.
Limit Interactions with Others to Reduce Stress
If you are visiting friends and family, limit your cat’s exposure to new people. Let them first rest and explore new space.
Engage Your Cat in Physical and Mental Activities
Once your cat has rested, it’s good to engage them in vigorous play sessions or let them work on food puzzles. This will help them release all stress and excess energy.
Cat on Airplane: Most Important Takeaways
Travelling with your cat by plane can be a bit stressful, but with careful preparation, it doesn’t need to be traumatic for either of you. It will probably not be the most pleasant experience in your and your cat’s life, but you can certainly make it safe, comfortable and relatively stress-free.
Remember to start your preparation early. Ensure your cat is comfortable in their carrier bag and can walk on the leash. Work on desensitising them to make noise and unfamiliar people less scary. Don’t be afraid to use some mild calming supplements.
Plan your trip well and make sure you have all the paperwork. Try to work with a vet who has experience preparing cats for airline travel, call your airline’s customer service, and ensure your hotels are cat-friendly. The better you plan, the smoother and more relaxed your journey will be.
Pack your cat’s stuff. You will need food, a portable litter box, and some items for cleaning and keeping things hygienic. Don’t forget to bring in some scent soakers, such as your favourite cat’s blanket or your T-shirt.
At the airport and on the airplane, focus on staying calm and keeping your cat safe. Use toilets to feed and toilet your kitty. Encourage your cat to drink. After the flight, allow your cat some time and space to decompress. And don’t forget to… enjoy your trip.
We hope you find this guide helpful and wish you the best of luck with your plane travels. Let us know in the comments if you have flown with your cat yet. If so, we’d love to hear about your positive and negative experiences. And don’t forget to share with us your favourite tips and tricks on flying with a cat, as we’d love to know them. Safe travels!