How do cats do on airplanes?

Cats can travel on airplanes, but extra care and planning are required to help them have a safe and comfortable flight. The experience of flying can be stressful for cats, so following airline regulations and taking steps to reduce anxiety are key.

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Are cats allowed on planes?

Most airlines allow cats to fly in the cabin with their owner if the pet carrier fits under the seat. Airlines have specific regulations for transporting pets:

Cats must be at least 8 weeks old to fly.
Cats must stay in an approved carrier that fits under the seat.
Soft-sided carriers are usually required.

Carriers count as a carry-on bag.
Only a certain number of pets can be in the cabin per flight.
A health certificate may be required.

There is usually a pet fee per flight.

It’s important to check with the specific airline ahead of time about their unique policies for flying with cats. Airlines don’t allow animals to fly in the cargo hold due to safety concerns.

How to prepare a cat for air travel

Since flying can be stressful for feline companions, adequate preparation is key to help cats stay calm and comfortable on a flight:

Get a sturdy, approved carrier

Airlines require cats to be in a carrier that fits under the seat during the flight. Hard-sided or soft-sided carriers are options, as long as they meet the size requirements. Be sure to remove any loose parts on the carrier that could fall off. Attach a label with your contact information too. Familiarize your cat with the carrier at home by leaving it out with the door open.

Visit the vet

Make sure to schedule a vet visit shortly before the trip. Get your cat microchipped and ensure vaccinations are up to date. Ask for a health certificate if required by the airline. Also discuss options for calming aids or anti-nausea medication for the flight.

Fast before travel

It’s best not to feed cats within 3-4 hours of takeoff to help prevent motion sickness. Provide ample water until it’s time to board. Consider bringing bottled water and collapsible bowls too.

Use calming aids

Talk to your vet about anti-anxiety medication or natural calming aids to use before and during travel. Common options are over-the-counter calming collars, pheromone sprays, and nutritional supplements. Test any products at home first to ensure your cat responds well.

Pack essentials

Bring along items like food, litter, plastic bags, paper towels, and grooming supplies. Have kitty’s favorite toys or blankets too. Airlines may require food and water bowls to be attached inside the carrier. Familiar items provide comfort.

Get your cat used to the carrier

Letting your cat get acquainted with the carrier ahead of time is crucial. Place it in a favorite room with the door secured open so your cat can explore it regularly. Put treats, catnip, blankets, or toys inside to create positive associations.

Tips for traveling with a cat on a plane

Here are some useful tips for getting through airport security and keeping your feline pal content during the flight:

Attach a label with your contact info to the carrier in case you get separated.
Bring plastic bags and paper towels in case of accidents.

Make sure your cat has identification tags or a microchip.
Request a hand inspection at security instead of sending the carrier through the scanner.
Give your cat a chance to relieve themselves before boarding.

Request a bulkhead seat with extra legroom.
Keep the carrier covered with a light blanket for a sense of security.
Travel during your cat’s normal sleeping hours if possible.

Use pheromone sprays and toys inside the carrier.
Avoid opening the carrier during the flight.
Comfort your cat with gentle touches and soft voices.

Never sedate your cat without veterinary approval.

Remaining calm and using familiar items can help ease anxiety for cats when flying.

Are sedatives safe for cats on planes?

While sedatives may seem like an easy way to guarantee a calm cat on a flight, use extreme caution before giving your cat medication. Sedating cats is controversial and involves risks.

Never administer tranquilizers, acepromazine, Benadryl, or any over-the-counter drugs without explicit veterinary approval. Strongly sedating cats can lower their blood pressure and body temperature to dangerous levels. It can also increase risk of heart and respiratory failure. Milder prescribed anti-anxiety medication under veterinary supervision is safer.

Tranquilizers and sedatives also don’t relieve motion sickness, which is a primary source of discomfort for traveling cats. There are safer ways to reduce anxiety, like pheromones and natural supplements. Focus on pre-flight conditioning with the carrier instead of sedating your cat for the trip.

What if a cat meows during the flight?

It’s natural for cats to vocalize their unease during flights. Here are some tips for dealing with a meowing cat on a plane:

Come prepared with sedatives prescribed by your vet if needed.
Ensure your cat is as comfortable as possible with familiar items.
Provide water and small treats for distraction.

Gently stroke or talk to your cat for reassurance.
Avoid scolding or yelling at a distressed cat.
Play soft music to help drown out noises.

Cover the carrier with a light blanket to provide a sense of security.
Use calming pheromone sprays in the carrier.
Politely apologize to nearby passengers.

Ask the flight attendant if you can change seats if needed.
Remain calm, as cats pick up on owners’ stress.

With preparation and by soothing anxious behaviors during travel, you can help minimize disruptive meowing cats on an airplane.

Can cats go in the bathroom on planes?

Airlines do not allow cats to use airplane lavatories or leave their carriers during flight. Everything your cat needs must be contained securely in the carrier. Here are some tips:

Line the bottom of the carrier with absorbent pads.
Bring extra Puppy Pee Pads.

Have plastic bags and paper towels for cleanup.
Feed your cat lightly before travel.
Avoid giving water right before takeoff or landing.

Request bulkhead seating for easier access.
Keep your cat comfortable and calm.

While in-flight bathroom breaks aren’t possible, adequate preparations can help your cat stay clean and comfortable on long flights.

Are cats safe under airplane seats?

Despite the tight quarters, most airlines require cats to stay under the seat in front of you during flights for safety. Here are some considerations regarding cats under airplane seats:

Cats are safest inside carriers secured under seats.
Hard or soft carriers must fit all the way under the seat.

Seats with more legroom provide more space.
The cat should be able to stand and turn around.
Carriers keep cats contained if turbulence occurs.

Airlines have safely transported pets this way for years.
Carriers protect cats in the case of an emergency landing or evacuation.
Cats may experience stress but aren’t in grave danger.

While less than ideal for cats, under-seat space is intended to keep pets safe during flight. Focus on creating the most comfortable in-cabin environment possible.

What’s the best airline for cats?

Some airlines are better suited than others for transporting cats in the cabin. Here are some of the best airlines for cat owners:

Airline	Cat Policy Summary
Alaska Airlines	Allows 2 cats per passenger. Offers direct airport release option.
American Airlines	Allows up to 2 cats for $125 fee. Cat-friendly flight attendants.
Delta	Allows 2 cats for $125 fee. Online health forms available.
JetBlue	Allows 1 cat for $100 fee. Extensive pet relief areas in terminals.
Southwest	Allows 1 cat for $95 fee. Frequently recommended by cat owners.
United	Allows 1 cat for $125 fee. Sturdy PetSafe kennels provided.

In general, it’s best to choose nonstop flights on airlines used to accommodating pets in-cabin. Don’t forget your cat’s essentials and calming aids too.

What size carrier do cats need on airplanes?

Cat carriers must meet specific size regulations to be allowed in airline cabins:

Soft carriers usually must be no larger than 18 x 11 x 11 inches.
Hard carriers are typically restricted to 17.5 x 12.5 x 7.5 inches.

Carriers must fit completely under the seat.
Weight of cat included cannot exceed 20 pounds.
Carrier must allow room for cat to sit, turn around, and move a bit.

Measure carefully, as oversized carriers will be rejected.
Airlines have sizers to test if carriers meet requirements.

Be sure to get an approved carrier specifically designed for airline travel. Practice having your cat spend time inside before the trip. Proper sizing ensures safety regulations are met.

How can cats relieve stress on airplanes?

Flying can be a nerve-wracking experience for cats. Here are some ways to help cats relieve stress during air travel:

Bring along familiar toys and bedding with comforting scents.
Ensure your cat is comfortable in their carrier before the trip.

Use Feliway or other pheromone sprays in the carrier.
Pack the carrier with catnip for distraction.
Play calming cat music to muffle strange noises.

Keep the carrier covered for an enclosed feeling.
Talk soothingly and stroke your cat gently.
Avoid petting if it seems to cause more stress.

Follow vets orders for anti-anxiety medication.
Try natural calming treats if approved.

Staying calm yourself, minimizing unfamiliarity, using calming aids, and providing comfort are the best ways to help cats relieve stress while flying.

How long can cats stay in carriers on planes?

Cats are only allowed out of their carriers in case of emergency landings or evacuations. Otherwise, they must stay secured in carriers for the full duration of the flight. Here are some general guidelines:

Flight Duration	Maximum Time in Carrier
Short flights under 2 hours	Entire flight
Medium flights of 2-6 hours	Up to 6 hours
Long flights over 6 hours	Up to 8-10 hours*

*For long flights over 8 hours, booking direct flights and requesting bulkhead seating allows for more stretching opportunities. Be sure to provide absorbent pads, water, and ample room to move around. Veterinarian-approved sedatives are recommended for prolonged confinement if absolutely necessary.

While not ideal, cats are accustomed to resting in snug spaces. With proper amenities, they can stay in carriers for extended periods when traveling by air.

Conclusion

Although flying can be stressful for cats, with careful preparation and understanding of airline policies, you can help ensure your cat has a safe and reasonably comfortable trip in the plane cabin. Be sure to make direct flights whenever possible. Invest in a sturdy, approved carrier and condition your cat to spending time inside it well ahead of departure. Consider calming aids and always follow your veterinarian’s guidance on minimizing discomfort. With extra TLC from their owner, most cats can adapt to temporary confinement during air travel. The key is planning ahead to make the unfamiliar experience as smooth as possible.