Mary Allen
A cat has no business being on an airplane. However, if it cannot be avoided, you should pay attention to a few things during transport to limit the stress for your animal and yourself.
In any case, you must inform the airline as early as possible that you intend to take an animal onboard. The requirements for transport in the cabin vary from airline to airline, often cats and other pets are only transported in the cargo hold.
Transporting the Cat by Plane: Preparations
There are usually restrictions on the weight of the pet including the transport box, the size, and the material of the transport container. Frequently, the transport box for the passenger compartment cannot be made of solid plastic but must be waterproof and bite-proof. Many airlines recommend so-called soft-shell containers for transporting cats in the cabin, which must be securely lockable.
Another basic requirement is that the dimensions of the transport container fit under your airplane seat and that your cat can still sit up and turn around in it. When you buy a new box, give your cat time to get used to it. For the flight, it is best to line the box with an absorbent pad.
If your cat can only travel in the cargo hold, you should label the transport box that indicates a living animal inside – preferably in several languages. Also, mark the top and bottom and attach copies of the cat’s vaccination card, entry exams, and your contact details to the box.
Don’t forget that there are fees for taking your cat on the plane. These vary by airline and destination. A look at the website or a quick phone call to the airline is all it takes to find out more about costs and regulations.
On Board: Be There for Your Cat
Traveling by plane is stressful for a cat. Tell the cabin crew that you would like to take your cat out from under the seat once in a while. Stroke works wonders. Remedies such as Feliway or Bach flowers can help calm your cat.
You should refrain from using strong sedatives, as it is not clear how they will work if the cabin pressure changes. To compensate for the pressure on the ears, you can offer your animal malt paste. When you slurp, the cat is forced to swallow, automatically equalizing the pressure.
Note the Entry Requirements
The regulations regarding entry with a pet vary depending on the destination country. The relevant embassy will provide you with the relevant information. Your district veterinary office or breeding association can also help you with the binding information. A health certificate or an international vaccination certificate is often required to be allowed to enter a country with a cat.
In some countries, the rules are even stricter: They insist on a quarantine obligation of several months, which excludes a vacation visit of a few weeks. You should not rely solely on your travel agent when looking for information. Gather all the necessary information about the requirements of your destination country yourself so that you do not experience any nasty surprises when entering the country.