We all love our 4 legged babies. Some prefer furry friends over humans, but that’s another conversation. Katara, my cat (and familiar,) should have won the MVP award after our 48 hours of travel. Yet even after all that, she still greeted our new home with curiosity and excitement. Why? My excellent prepping skills of course; let me show you.
Traveling with a furry friend can always be challenging, but if you prepare the animal properly beforehand then you have a greater chance of a smoother ride.
They look like they’re ready to go
STEP 1:
First, How big is the animal? Can it ride with you or will it have to ride with your baggage? For some airlines, the maximum weight of the animal that travels in the cabin is 10kg. The best way to find out what the regulations are for animal travel is to read the guidelines on their website or call them directly. No better way to find out than to go directly to the source.
Step 2:
While you’re already on the phone with them, check if there are available spots for your pet on the flight you are interested in. All airlines have different regulations about how many animals can travel onboard, so make sure you verify that there’s a spot for your furry friend before booking the flight.
Step 3:
Purchase a carry-on that is both comfortable and within the airline’s guidelines. All measurements can be found on the airline website or in the fine print of your plane ticket. Katara is usually great with strangers, but the noise does occasionally get to her. So I wanted to find something where she could see what was going on but felt safe by my side. So I decided on the Beikkot Cat Backpack that came with a transparent capsule. (AKA the astronaut bag) This was the best option for my back as well since I was still recovering from an injury.
Available on Amazon for $42.99 with the bowl included
I would recommend buying the carry-on as soon as you know you are traveling. Why?
Step 4:
Leave out the carry-on for your cat to sniff. Katara is a curious little one, so as soon as the box arrived she was all over it. Within a couple of days, she was napping in it. The reason for this exposure is to start assimilating the carry-on as a safe space. While the carry-on is building rapport with your cat, turn your attention to the destinations vaccine and document requirements.
For Ex: Spain requires a series of shots to be done with a specific amount of days. They also request for the animal to have a passport. Not all countries do, but find out what are the requirements for your destination before they stop you at the gate.
Step 5:
Go on small field trips with the cat inside the carry-on. A walk around the neighborhood or a lap around the block with your car should do. It only needs to be about 15-30 min so the cat can get used to traveling in the carry-on. Luckily, Katara had traveled in the car a fair amount before this, so she didn’t fight this step too much. (Especially when there were treats involved.)
Pro tip – the holes in the front are great for treats and head scratches
Step 6:
Once you get to the airport, you may have to pay for the cat’s ticket at the gate. Checking in will involve a few questions about the weight and vaccines. This is where you will present all the documents needed in order to travel with your furry friend.
Step 7:
You’re all checked in and heading towards security. You begin to worry about all the people around you and how you’re going to have to hold your slightly freaked out cat while they search your backpack. Rest assured, private screenings are available (and free.) Just ask one of the employees and they will assist you.
Katara and I got put into a little cubicle where I was able to slowly take her out of the backpack and strategically burrito hold her so she wouldn’t bolt or scratch. It only took about 5 minutes max, from beginning to end, but all contained in a small, slightly quieter space.
Step 8:
Treats. Your cat may not eat it but it definitely deserves one by now. All that’s left is to travel. I recommend placing a pee pad at the bottom in case your furry friend has an accident or can’t hold it. And of course, scratches throughout the flight are a great way to reassure your animal that they are safe.
Go ahead and use that high-pitched voice you only use at home. It’ll help them understand it’s all going to be okay.
I imagine this is what they are feeling most of the time the high pitched voice comes out
Step 9
Once you have arrived at your accommodation, let your furry friend stretch those legs and throw in some wet food to cheer up their mood. Katara warmed up to the spot as soon as she was able to use the restroom. Her curious nature took over and within 30 minutes she made herself at home.
Katara traveled from Miami, FL to Palma de Mallorca, Spain without any medication. I had bought some for her but while I was testing it out a few days before my move, I noticed she wasn’t a fan and her anxiety got worse. In the end, I decided it was best for her not to travel with any sedatives. She meowed throughout the flight a bit, but not enough to bother the other passengers.
Hope these tips help you and your furry friend on your next trip! Share your pictures with us in the comments below, (because who doesn’t look cats pictures?) Am I right?
Lots of love,
– Taynahmite
P.S. Packing for humans is where it really gets tricky