Flying With Your Feline: How To Prepare

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by Brooke Ann Lipinski | Wednesday, October 9th, 2024

In today’s newsletter on Pounce!, we want to discuss the importance of careful preparation when traveling with your feline companion via airplane. While many of us have taken extended car rides with our cats, many pet owners are not well-informed on the specific details to keep in mind when preparing to fly with their feline for the first time. Today’s newsletter aims to break this down into an easy-to-follow manual-style read, and enable pet owners and their companion animals for the most seamless, comfortable travel possible.

I’m Preparing For My First Feline Flight. What Do I Do?

1. Research:

A successful travel experience with your feline starts long before you pack up your bags and catch your ride to the airport. It requires careful planning and preparation to ensure the most comfortable, seamless experience for both you and your pet. Your first step in beginning any journey with your pet is to research, research, research. You will want to research different airlines, to see which has requirements that will best suit the needs of you and your pet; different pet carriers, to see which meet the cabin-standard for your given flight; portable food, water, and litter containers, and more. You will also want to prepare your pet’s veterinary history, and ensure you have a full understanding of what is requested for your pet’s Domestic Health Certificate (DHC) or International Health Certificate (IHC). This brings us to our next step...

2. Booking Your Trip:

Once you have done sufficient research on which airline is best for you and your pet, you will want to book your trip. Whenever possible, it is recommended to book within 6-8 months in advance of your travel, to ensure ample time to go over any documentation or veterinary questions for your pet’s primary care provider. Most importantly, you will want to go over your pet’s Domestic Health Certificate (DHC) or International Health Certificate (IHC) with your veterinarian, which brings us to step three...

3. Packing and Preparing Your DHC/IHC:

The first step in preparing your pet’s Domestic Health Certificate (DHC) or International Health Certificate (IHC) is having your trip scheduled and booked. Once you have this piece of information, you can begin the process of completing this form with your pet’s primary care provider. In most cases, your pet will be required to have an up-to-date Rabies vaccination, and perhaps a Feline Leukemia Virus Vaccination (FeLV). Every country is unique, so it is important to go over this documentation thoroughly with your veterinarian to ensure smooth, uninterrupted travel for both you and your pet. Once your pet’s veterinary certifications are approved, the next step is focusing on how to pack these important documents, as well as all other important necessities, in the safest way possible.

4. Choosing Quality Products for Travel

When traveling with your feline companion, choosing high-quality products is essential to ensure their comfort and safety throughout the journey. Selecting an airline-approved pet carrier that is both spacious and well-ventilated will provide your cat with a secure, cozy environment during the flight. Look for carriers with soft padding or consider adding a plush blanket inside to enhance your pet’s comfort. It’s also important to invest in travel-friendly, spill-proof food and water containers that can be easily secured within the carrier. Additionally, packing a portable litter box that your cat is familiar with can help reduce anxiety and maintain a sense of routine. Remember, high-quality products not only contribute to your pet’s physical well-being, but they also help minimize stress, ensuring a smoother travel experience for everyone involved (American Veterinary Medical Association, 2020; ASPCA, n.d.).

5. Discussing Medications with Your Veterinarian

Before embarking on your flight, speak with your veterinarian about the possibility of using medications or calming supplements to facilitate a more comfortable travel experience for your cat. For cats that are particularly anxious or prone to motion sickness, prescription medications such as Gabapentin or anti-nausea treatments like Cerenia may be recommended. Gabapentin, in particular, has been shown to have calming effects on cats, reducing anxiety and stress during travel without causing excessive sedation (Smith et al., 2019). Your veterinarian will be able to provide personalized recommendations based on your cat’s health history, temperament, and the length of your flight. It’s crucial to test any medication at home prior to travel to ensure your cat responds well and there are no adverse reactions.

Traveling with your feline companion requires careful planning and preparation, but with the right approach, it can be a positive experience for both you and your pet. From researching airlines and securing the necessary documentation to choosing high-quality products and discussing medications with your veterinarian, every step plays a vital role in ensuring your cat’s comfort and safety. By taking the time to plan ahead and consider your feline’s unique needs, you can embark on your journey with confidence and peace of mind, knowing that your beloved companion is well-prepared for a safe and enjoyable flight.

References

  • American Veterinary Medical Association. (2020). Traveling with your pet FAQ. Retrieved from https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners/petcare/traveling-your-pet-faq

  • ASPCA. (n.d.). Travel safely with your pet. Retrieved from https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/travel-safety-tips

  • Smith, M., Rudmann, D., & Roberts, R. (2019). Effects of gabapentin in reducing anxiety in cats during veterinary examination. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 21(2), 171-177. https://doi.org/10.1177/1098612X18780015

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