Do cats need a ticket to fly?

Yes, you'll have to buy your pet a ticket. It won't necessarily be the same ticket plus boarding pass that you'll use, but there are various fees based on where and how your pet will ride on the aircraft. As you can see, there are several steps you'll want to be aware of when it comes to flying with your pets.


How much is a plane ticket for my cat?

The cost can run from $50.00 to $500.00 so check with your airline's reservation or cargo department. Pets up to approximately 75 pounds can travel as checked baggage when accompanied by a passenger.

How to get a plane ticket for a cat?

When checking a pet, you need to:
  1. Contact Reservations at least 48 hours prior to travel.
  2. Check in at the ticket counter with your official orders.
  3. Allow extra check-in time (at least 2 hours and no more than 4 hours before your flight)
  4. Complete a checklist with an agent.
  5. Provide a health certificate.


Can cats fly on planes for free?

Maximum number of pets: 5–7 carriers per flight (depending on plane), 1 per person. Price: $125 each way (cabin); $200 each way (baggage). Advance reservations: Required. Allowed animals: Cats and dogs.

What certificate do I need for my cat to fly?

Most airlines also require a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (health certificate) issued within 10 days of travel. Federal regulations require pets to be at least 8 weeks old and they should be weaned at least 5 days before flying. Talk to your veterinarian about feeding schedules.


Jackson Galaxy's Tips for Flying with Cats



Does flying hurt cats ears?

Additionally, pressure changes at altitude can hurt cats' ears, similar to how your own ear might pop, says Dr. Smith. Because of this, he recommends that your cat travels with you in the cabin, rather than in the cargo hold.

Which airlines allow cat in cabin?

13 Airlines That Allow Flying With a Cat In-Cabin [2022 Prices &...
  • Alaska Air.
  • Air Canada.
  • American Airlines.
  • Delta.
  • JetBlue.
  • Southwest.
  • United Airlines.
  • Air France.


How do I avoid airline pet fees?

Ways to Avoid Fees When Traveling with a Furry Friend
  1. Come Prepared. The earlier you plan for your trip, the more you'll be able to strategize the best ways to avoid fees. ...
  2. Find the Most Pet-Friendly Flights (Or Alternatives) ...
  3. Avoid Foreign Transaction Fees. ...
  4. Find Fee-Free Hotels. ...
  5. Cleaning Fees.


Can I hold my cat in my lap on a plane?

Can my cat or dog sit on my lap? No. Pets are required to stay in their carrier throughout your domestic flight, stored under the seat in front of you.

Can my cat fly with me in the cabin?

Make sure your pet fits

While there are no weight or breed limitations for pets, they must travel in either a hard-sided or soft-sided carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. There can only be one pet per carrier, and they must be able to stand up and turn around while inside.

Can you fly just a cat?

Yes, you can! It's quite common for pets to fly without their owners. In fact, most of the moves we arrange involve clients traveling separately from their pets.


How much are airline pet fees?

United allows cats and dogs to travel in the passenger cabin on most flights within the U.S. A pet fee of $125 each way applies. There is an additional $125 service charge for each stopover of more than four hours within the U.S. or more than 24 hours outside of the U.S.

How do cats go to the bathroom on a plane?

Kitty Toilet

Some airports have pet relief stations that you can use. If you cannot find these, you can use a family bathroom with a door. Our suggestion is that you set up your cat litter tray with a little bit of cat litter. You can remove their business using the doggy bags while wearing your gloves.

Which airline is the most pet friendly?

The best airlines for pets
  1. Alaska Airlines. Alaska Airlines is the best airline for traveling with a pet. ...
  2. Southwest Airlines. While Alaska scored a 4, only one other airline, Southwest, scored a 3. ...
  3. Frontier Airlines. Frontier is a great airline to fly for more than just cats and dogs.


Are flights stressful for cats?

All travel, but air travel in particular, is stressful for cats. It's loud, disrupts their routine and can be very confusing for a kitty. And, unless you can charter a private flight, or your pet can fit into limited space down by your feet, it's likely that your kitty will need to travel in the cargo hold.

How do I get my cat to stop meowing on a plane?

Try Calming Pheromones

As well as selling misters and diffusers, Feliway offers a pheromone spray. Spray the cat carrier when on a trial run and spray it before your cat gets in on the day of the flight. It should help alleviate any anxiety and will make your cat feel like the carrier is a safe place to be.

Where should I sit on a plane with a cat?

The middle seats have more space under the seats.

Once you board the plane, your cat's carrier will have to go under the seat in front of you. On many airlines, the middle seat has the most room for your cat's carrier. If you're able to make specific seat requests when you book, you may want to ask for a middle seat.


Do pets pay airline tickets?

The fee for taking a dog in the plane cabin is $125 per pet, for both Jet Blue and United. When flying with United, there is an additional $125 service charge for each stopover of more than 4 hours within the U.S. or more than 24 hours outside of the U.S.

What is the cheapest way to travel with a pet?

Riding By Your Car. Taking your pet along in the car with you may be the least stressful and most cost-effective option for transporting your pet. To ensure your pet is safe when traveling in the car, all you need is a carrier or crate to transport them in.

Why does it cost so much to fly with a pet?

The simple answer is airlines charge cargo rates for pets and other animals. There are no discounts. Period. No matter how much we pet lovers want to believe our pets are people, the travel and transportation industry classifies them as cargo.


Do airports have bathrooms for cats?

Many airports now provide secure pet relief areas that you can use during your cat's move, but you will still need a portable litter box.

Do cats get sick on planes?

Pets afflicted with motion sickness begin drooling, feel nauseated and may even develop vomiting or diarrhea. If your pet is known to experience motion sickness that is not easily treated, you may want to reconsider bringing him/her along on vacation.

Is flying with cats cruel?

Kirsten Theisen, director of pet care issues for the Humane Society of the United States, believes air travel is simply too stressful for most animals, especially when they are placed in an aircraft's cargo hold. “Flying is frightening for animals,” says Theisen.


Do cats get motion sickness on planes?

Cats are prone to motion sickness resulting from nausea during travel.

How do you travel with a cat?

The safest way for your cat to travel is using a crash-tested, secured carrier. To avoid undo distress, make sure your cat is acclimated before you leave. Also, choosing the right pet carrier will allow it to double your cat's bed while you're traveling.