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Flying with your furry feline friend can be a daunting task, but with American Airlines, the process is made simple and stress-free. Whether you’re taking a short domestic flight or traveling internationally, American Airlines has specific guidelines and procedures in place to ensure a smooth journey for both you and your cat.
In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about flying with your cat on American Airlines, including the necessary documentation, carrier requirements, and tips for keeping your cat calm and comfortable during the flight. So sit back, relax, and get ready to take to the skies with your beloved cat!
Contents
- How to Fly With a Cat American Airlines?
- 1. Check the airline’s pet policy
- 2. Choose your cabin or baggage option
- 3. Prepare your cat for travel
- 4. Arrive early to the airport
- 5. Board the plane early
- 6. Monitor your cat during the flight
- 7. Collect your cat at your destination
- 8. Follow up with your veterinarian
- 9. Benefits of flying with your cat
- 10. Flying with your cat vs. leaving them at home
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the requirements for flying with a cat on American Airlines?
- What type of carrier can I use for my cat on American Airlines?
- How much does it cost to fly with a cat on American Airlines?
- Can I bring more than one cat on American Airlines?
- What should I do if my cat becomes anxious during the flight?
- Traveling By Plane With Your Cat
- How Many Aircraft Does American Airlines Have?
- Is American Airlines Business Class Worth It?
- Can You Have 2 Carry Ons For American Airlines?
How to Fly With a Cat American Airlines?
Flying with your cat can be a daunting task, but with proper planning and preparation, it can be a smooth experience. American Airlines allows cats to travel with their owners in the cabin or as checked baggage. Here’s what you need to know to fly with your cat on American Airlines.
1. Check the airline’s pet policy
Before booking your flight, make sure to check American Airlines’ pet policy. The airline has specific rules and restrictions when it comes to flying with pets. For example, American Airlines only allows cats and dogs to travel as pets. Other animals, such as birds or rabbits, are not permitted. Additionally, the airline has specific requirements for carriers and documentation.
To fly with your cat, you will need to provide a health certificate from your veterinarian. The certificate must be issued within 10 days of travel and should state that your cat is fit to fly. You will also need to ensure that your cat’s carrier meets American Airlines’ requirements. The carrier must be leak-proof and well-ventilated, and your cat must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
2. Choose your cabin or baggage option
American Airlines offers two options for flying with your cat: in-cabin or as checked baggage. In-cabin travel is available for cats and dogs that are small enough to fit in a carrier under the seat in front of you. Checked baggage is available for pets that exceed the size and weight limits for in-cabin travel.
If you choose to fly with your cat in the cabin, you will need to purchase a ticket for your furry friend. There is a limit of one pet per passenger, and the pet fee is $125 each way. If you choose to check your cat as baggage, you will need to drop them off at the airline’s cargo facility and pick them up at your destination.
3. Prepare your cat for travel
Flying can be stressful for cats, so it’s important to prepare them for the experience. Start by acclimating your cat to their carrier. Place the carrier in your home and encourage your cat to explore it on their own. You can also place treats and toys inside to make it a positive experience.
On the day of travel, make sure your cat has a comfortable blanket or towel in their carrier, as well as a small amount of food and water. You may also want to consider giving your cat a calming supplement or medication to help ease their anxiety.
4. Arrive early to the airport
Arriving early to the airport will give you plenty of time to check in with your cat and ensure that everything is in order. American Airlines recommends arriving at least 90 minutes before your flight for domestic travel and three hours before international travel.
When you arrive at the airport, check in with the airline and provide them with your cat’s health certificate. You will also need to pay the pet fee if you are flying with your cat in-cabin.
5. Board the plane early
If you are flying with your cat in-cabin, American Airlines will allow you to board the plane early. This will give you plenty of time to get settled and ensure that your cat is comfortable before takeoff.
Once you are on the plane, place your cat’s carrier under the seat in front of you. Make sure to keep the carrier closed and secured at all times during the flight.
6. Monitor your cat during the flight
During the flight, it’s important to monitor your cat and ensure that they are comfortable. You may want to offer them small amounts of food and water throughout the flight to keep them hydrated and calm.
If your cat becomes anxious or stressed during the flight, try to comfort them by talking to them in a soothing voice or offering them a favorite toy or treat.
7. Collect your cat at your destination
If you are flying with your cat as checked baggage, you will need to collect them at the airline’s cargo facility at your destination. Make sure to arrive early and bring identification with you to collect your pet.
Once you have your cat, take them to a quiet area to allow them to acclimate to their new surroundings. Offer them food, water, and plenty of love and attention to help them feel comfortable.
8. Follow up with your veterinarian
After your flight, it’s a good idea to follow up with your veterinarian to ensure that your cat is healthy and happy. Your vet may recommend additional check-ups or treatments to help your cat recover from the stress of travel.
9. Benefits of flying with your cat
Flying with your cat can be a great way to travel with your furry friend. It allows you to keep them close and ensure that they are comfortable and safe during the flight. Additionally, many cats enjoy the comfort of their carrier and the familiar scent of their owner during travel.
10. Flying with your cat vs. leaving them at home
If you are considering flying with your cat, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons. While flying with your cat can be a great way to travel together, it can also be stressful and expensive. If your cat is prone to anxiety or does not tolerate travel well, it may be better to leave them at home with a pet sitter or in a boarding facility.
Overall, flying with your cat on American Airlines can be a great way to travel with your furry friend. By following these tips and preparing your cat for the experience, you can ensure a safe and comfortable flight for both you and your pet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements for flying with a cat on American Airlines?
Before booking a flight, you must ensure that your cat meets all the requirements set by American Airlines. Your cat must be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned. You must also provide a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian issued within 10 days of your departure date.
Additionally, your cat must be small enough to fit in a carrier that can be stowed under the seat in front of you. If your cat is too large, they will need to travel in the cargo hold.
What type of carrier can I use for my cat on American Airlines?
When flying with a cat on American Airlines, you must use an airline-approved carrier. The carrier must be leak-proof and well-ventilated, with enough space for your cat to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. The carrier must also fit under the seat in front of you.
Soft-sided carriers are recommended for in-cabin travel, while hard-sided carriers are required for travel in the cargo hold. Be sure to label your carrier with your name, address, and phone number, as well as your cat’s name and a “Live Animal” sticker.
How much does it cost to fly with a cat on American Airlines?
The cost of flying with a cat on American Airlines varies depending on the route and cabin class. For in-cabin travel within the United States, the fee is $125 each way. For travel in the cargo hold, the fee ranges from $200 to $750 each way, depending on the destination.
It’s important to note that fees are non-refundable and subject to change. You should also check with American Airlines for any additional fees or restrictions that may apply to your specific itinerary.
Can I bring more than one cat on American Airlines?
Yes, American Airlines allows up to 2 cats to travel in the same carrier, as long as they are of the same breed and weigh less than 20 pounds combined. You will be charged one pet fee for both cats.
If you are traveling with more than 2 cats, they will need to travel in separate carriers and additional fees will apply. Contact American Airlines for more information.
What should I do if my cat becomes anxious during the flight?
If your cat becomes anxious during the flight, it’s important to remain calm and reassure them. You may also want to cover their carrier with a blanket to help them feel more secure.
If your cat continues to show signs of distress, notify a flight attendant and ask for assistance. American Airlines prohibits sedation of pets during travel, so be sure to speak with your veterinarian beforehand if you think your cat may need medication to help them relax.
Traveling By Plane With Your Cat
In conclusion, flying with a cat on American Airlines can be a straightforward process if you follow the guidelines and requirements outlined by the airline. Proper preparation and planning, including obtaining the necessary documentation and purchasing the correct carrier, can ensure a stress-free travel experience for both you and your feline companion.
Remember to make sure your cat is comfortable and well-fed before the flight, and provide them with plenty of water during the journey. Be sure to arrive at the airport early and inform the airline staff that you will be traveling with a cat, as they may have specific procedures in place.
Overall, with a bit of preparation and patience, flying with a cat on American Airlines can be a breeze. Don’t let the thought of traveling with your furry friend deter you from taking that next adventure together. Happy travels!
