Flying and plane travel with your cat

Because air travel can be stressful, both for you and the four-legged members of the family, it is recommended that pet parents think twice about flying their cats on commercial airlines. If it is a necessity that you transport your pet by air, please follow our tips to ensure as safe and comfortable a trip as possible:

Booking your flight

If your cat is small enough to fit under your seat, she can accompany you in the cabin. Keep in mind that you will still need to make a reservation and purchase a ticket for your pet.

If your pet is too large to fly with you in the cabin, she will have to travel in the cargo hold. In this case, it is very important that you book a direct flight whenever possible. This will decrease the chances that your kitty is left on the tarmac during extremely hot or cold weather, or mishandled by baggage personnel.

Get to the vet

All animals traveling by plane must have a record of inoculation and a health certificate no more than 10 days old. You will need to make an appointment with your veterinarian for a pre-flight check-up, and make sure all vaccinations are up-to-date. Be sure to obtain a health certificate from the vet dated within 10 days of departure.

If you are traveling outside of the continental United States, keep in mind that you will be subject to the laws of your destination. Consult the United States embassy or tourist board of the country you are traveling to regarding their regulations about bringing your animal.

Finding the right cat carrier

Your pet's mode of transport will determine the kind of carrier you need. If your cat will be in the cabin with you, you should use a soft-sided, well-ventilated carrier that will fit under the seat in front of you and that has been approved by the airline for in-cabin use. Be sure to line the bottom with absorbent liners.

If your pet is traveling in the cargo hold, you will need a USDA-approved shipping crate, available from many pet supply stores and airlines. Your kitty should be able to stand, sit, lie down and turn around comfortably in the carrier. Take care that it has ample ventilation on as many sides as possible to dissipate heat build-up and provide optimum airflow.

For animals traveling as cargo, you'll also need to:

• Write the words "LIVE ANIMAL" in letters at least one inch tall on the top and sides of the crate. Use arrows to indicate the upright position of the crate.
• On the top of the crate, write the name, address and telephone number of your pet's destination point, and whether you will be accompanying her or if someone else is picking her up.
• Ensure that the bottom and top covers of the carrier are permanently fastened with screws. This is an IATA regulation, and most carrier manufacturers supply screws for this purpose.
• For easier access in emergency, make sure the door of the crate is securely closed, but not locked.
• Attach a current photo of your pet to the top of the crate for identification purposes. This could be a lifesaver, should your pet escape from the carrier. You also should carry your pet's pic.
• Line the crate bottom with some type of bedding (sheeted paper or a towel) to absorb accidents.

It's a good idea to familiarize your pet with the carrier well before your trip. To associate the carrier with a positive experience, place a favorite toy or object in it and praise and reward your pet each time she ventures in. Do not leave your cat confined in the carrier.

Final preparations

If your pet is traveling in the cargo hold, sure you've frozen a small dish or tray of water for your pet the night before you leave. This way, it can't spill during loading, and will melt by the time she's thirsty. Tape a small pouch of dried food outside the crate. Airline personnel will be able to feed your pet in case she gets hungry on long flights or layovers.

About four hours before you are due at the airport, offer your pet food and water. It's a good idea to walk her right before you check in. Tranquilization is not recommended, except in cases where animals may harm themselves when extremely stressed. But, as with all matters concerning your pet's health, do consult your vet.

Make sure your pet is wearing a collar and an identification tag. The collar should also include destination information in case your pet escapes.

In flight and en route

If you are traveling with a pet in the cargo hold, be sure to tell every airline employee you encounter. This way, they'll be ready if any additional attention is needed. If the plane is delayed, ask airline personnel to check your pet whenever feasible. In some situations, removing the animal from cargo and deplaning may be warranted.

And finally, when you've reached your destination, keep your pet in a calm, quiet area. Give her plenty of time to adjust to her new environment. Bon voyage!