Traveling with the cat on the plane is even less popular than taking it with the car. Unfamiliar smells, loud noises and pressure equalization make the flight uncomfortable even for relaxed house cats. Unfortunately, it is not always possible to avoid taking the cat with you on the plane. But regardless of whether you are moving or staying abroad for a longer period of time: with a little preparation, you can make the flight as comfortable as possible for your kitty.
Tips For Flying With A Cat
The Legal Side
If you want to dare to fly with a cat, you should inquire about the applicable regulations with the airline beforehand. While some airlines do not allow animals in the cabin and only transport them in the hold, others allow them to be taken in the cabin. However, the regulations regarding the weight and size of the transport basket differ. In most cases, a textile transport ash that is expressly approved for air transport is preferred. As a rule, the animals have to be registered when booking, often a certain fee has to be paid.
Medication
Even if you want to do something good for your cat: Sedatives are not recommended when traveling by air. Many airlines even expressly prohibit them. The reason: Medicines work several times as much in the air as they do on the ground, the effects are hardly predictable. That is why more and more airlines are switching to not transporting sedated animals – neither in the transport area nor in the cabin.
The Security Check
Animals traveling in the passenger cabin must be removed from the kennel at the security checkpoint. Ask for a separate room here and point out that a runaway cat will not help anyone and slow down air traffic considerably- persistence is often worth it!
During The Flight
Preparing for the flight is an exceptional situation – staying on the plane and the pressure in the cabin that increases with altitude are anything but comfortable for your cat. The reaction of four-legged friends is different when flying with a cat: some become calm, others complain loudly. Still others panic or breathe quickly. No matter what happens: During the flight, cats must remain in the transport bag at all times. This must be properly closed and remain in place. There are reasons for these airline regulations: Nobody wants your cat to escape on the plane. Any allergies or phobias of fellow travelers and hours of searching for the kitty should be avoided.
The Arrival
In most cases the journey is not over when you arrive at the airport. Depending on whether you have flown abroad, you will have to go through customs. They are not always interested in pets – but you should always have your cat’s health certificate and pet passport on hand. Without this, entry and often no return is possible. Further information is available on the homepage of the respective embassy.
After The Flight
At home, in your holiday home or in your new home, your cat will be a little wobbly on its feet. Give her a lot of rest and let her arrive first! Feliway or Bach flowers can also help during the acclimatization period.
