Has anyone ever taken a cat on an airplane? I am moving to NYC, and must bring my cat on the plane...?

Question

I know you are allowed to, but is it a total hassle? I am worried my cat will screech and meow the whole time and piss the other passengers off. (I heard you should NOT give them a sedative).

Answer 1

First talk to your vet. You have to have health papers before any animal can fly. Also you need to know every airport your cat is going through and their requirements. Then once you know the requirements you take them to the vet and the vet fills out the health papers (saying your cat is current on shots, internally and externally free of parasites (fleas and worms) and that your cat is healthy enough to fly. The vet can also prescribe sedatives to give for the flight itself. They are very safe and you can ask for a trial dose so you can see how your cat reacts and how long it effects your cat before the actual flight. My cat has to be sedated to go anywhere. He stresses out completely. Yesterday I took him in for his annual shots and didnt sedate him and he threw up and had diarrhea all over my car. The sedatives are very helpful for you, your cat, and any passengers on the plane. your cat will just be groggy a little but will be more relaxed than if not sedated. But ask your vet what they think first. They will be able to help you better. Good luck and have a safe trip.

Answer 2

It is a FAA policy that there can only be 2 animals in the cabin of a aircraft. Even if the cats live together they must be in their own carrier and the humans bringing them on can not sit together in the same row. Only some airlines 'check' animals in the belly of the plane. It is expensive but easier than trying to carry them on the plane. FYI don't try and sneak them in your luggage. as the bag handlers are not gentle and not all aircraft cargo compartments are pressurized. You can also go to the airline websites for more information for that spefic airlines policies. I my experience cats do tend to get air sick as well. you might want to talk to the vet when you get required letters for travel from him about a tranquilizer or something that may help. Good Luck

Answer 3

Once upon a time it was fairly easy... we took our first cat from America to Europe & it was no biggie. Now it's another story. Airlines require that the cage the cat is in be big enough that the cat can sit, stand & lay without touching any of the sides or top of the carrier. Then, if it's too big to fit under the seat infront of you, it must go cargo. Generally, the only sized cage that can fit is a very very small one for kittens.

If it goes cargo, you not only have vet things to deal with, but many countries require the cat to now be microchipped. it's true that each flight only allows 1-2 animals per flight, so reserve your space EARLY and call back often to see if it was approved. The other big issue with cargo is, while inside it is pressurized and heated, airlines will not take animals if it's too cold or too warm outside due to transport between the airport and the plane.

First check with your airlines, on their website and then call them, then with your vet. If you're traveling internationally, also check with the US embassy. Check, check and recheck. I've tried 3 times to get my cat (now in America) over here with me (in Latvia) and all have failed for one reason or another. I hope you have better luck!

Answer 4

My cat has travelled with me on planes both in cargo ad in cabin. I assume you'll be taking your cat with you "in-cabin" if it is a domestic flight. If the cat has to go in cargo, airlines that allow it usually have a pressurized compartment in the luggage hold for live animals. At any rate, you need to get the correct carrier crate. You need to ask the airlines for the correct dimensions. When my cat had to travel i cargo, the cat kennel crate was a size meant for a small dog. In cabin, the cat carrier case is really small - about 15 inches long, 10 iches wide and 8 inches high (so that it will fit under your seat on the airplane.

The tricky part of traveling with your pet is NOT when you are already in the air flying - they usually sleep through that. The real tricky part is going through the darn X-ray machines because you need to carry your cat in your arms. So, to make everything real simple and secure, buy a cat harness and leash for the cat. Put it on him when you head for the airport. This way, you can hold on to the halter or leash and your cat when you pass the x-ray machine without worrying that your cat will suddenly fly from your arms. Then put him back in his carrier.

Answer 5

You did not mentiom WHERE you are coming from.
Some places require quarantine time.
Also, I've heard airlines are limiting "live cargo" to two (2) per flight.
Yes, your cat will likely fly in the cargo hold.

However, rules etc may differ from airline to airline.
Your best bet is to contact the airline you are using directly.

It's also a good idea to:
1) Have up to date medical records when you travel anywhere with your pet.
2) Bring a bottle of water from departure city to slowly acclimate your pet to "new" water.
3) Don't forget fav toys, treats etc.

Bye the way,.. welcome to New York City!
(from a Native) =)

Answer 6

My husband used to be in the airforce and he would travel accross country with our cat. Our cat did not mind it. You will want to make sure that the temperature is kept at about 75 degrees steady so the cat does not become stressed or sick from to cold or to hot a temperature.

Answer 7

taking it with you on the plane is your best option. just give it lots of attention and it should be fine. it will be way less stressful on the cat then live animal shipping, or putting it in cargo.