It’s not easy to travel with your cat most especially if you have to ride a plane to reach your destination. While there are lots of preparation needed when flying, one of the most important things you have to know is where to find an airline-approved cat carrier. Using an airline-approved cat carrier is very important not only for the safety of your cat but you and other passengers’ safety as well. Aside from that, your trip will surely be successful if you have a high-quality cat carrier.
To be airline approved the carrier should fit the cats size and it should be hard and not soft.
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Things you should know when flying with your cat
As a cat owner, it’s important to do some research first before you fly with your cat. If you haven’t traveled with your cat yet via plane, most cat experts and veterinarians recommend that you contact your airline first to know the specific requirements for your travel. Remember that requirements can vary per airline so it’s important that you reach out to them beforehand.
Most of the time, airlines will require vaccination records as well as other important paper works. It’s also advised that you bring along toys in order to help soothe your furry feline most especially if he’s not used to traveling.
What to look for in an airline-approved cat carrier
Cat carriers usually come in different sizes and shapes but airline-approved ones are more compact. Whether you would go for soft sided cat carriers that have lightweight flexibility or you go with hard carriers that are highly durable, there’s really a specific type of cat carrier that will make your travel more comfortable and easier while making sure that your cat will enjoy the trip as well.
What type of airline-approved cat carrier should you use?
You may be looking for different features for your cat’s carrier – whether it’s a hard or soft carrier, commute, or airplane ready one, or the types that you can carry on your back or slung over your shoulder. No matter what it is, we all have different needs and preferences and cats have their own unique preferences too. Thus, when you’re shopping for a cat carrier, make sure to consider comfort as a primary feature.
Consider your cat’s comfort
The size of your furry feline can help determine what type of cat carrier you really need. If you have a large cat, chances are he might not get comfortable in a bubble backpack. On the other hand, if you have a tiny cat, there’s a possibility that he won’t reach the bubble backpack’s hole, making it useless.
The same thing also goes for soft cat carriers. For instance, if your furry friend is big and heavy and the bottom part of the carrier is not firm enough, your cat will not be comfortable in it. But take note that some cats also find hard carries more like a cage and somewhat restrictive. The best thing you can do is to read the size suggestions of every carrier so that you won’t purchase something that’s too small or too big for your cat.Common questions about airline-approved cat carriers
How do you know if your cat carrier is airline approved?
- Use a cat carrier that is not larger than the airline-approved cat carrier dimensions
- Use a cat carrier with soft sides since this can compress slightly if necessary. Some airlines also allow cat carriers that have larger dimensions provided that the carrier has soft sides.
- Make sure you have adequate size for your carrier. Your cat should be able to freely lie down and turn around.
- It should also be bite proof and the flooring should be leak proof.
Do cats prefer hard or soft carriers?
In order to keep your feline friend secure and safe during your travel, you have to invest in a quality carrier. Usually, cat carriers come in different sizes and shapes with different features and designs depending on their usage. Typically, soft-sided cat carriers are designed for easy storage and are always light weight, while hard carriers are sturdier.
Is it safe for cats to fly on airplanes?
With some preparation and research, both you as well as your cat can definitely fly in comfort. Most airline rules are actually the same as when you’re flying with a dog, however, with felines, it’s still highly advised that you talk to your airline and veterinarian prior to your travel to make sure that your travel will become successful.
Conclusion
You should take note that there are no official airline-approved cat carriers since the requirements often vary between airlines. This is why we suggest that you always double the requirements and carry-on dimensions of your airline before you order. Aside from the requirements of the airline, it’s best that you buy a cat carrier that suits you and your cat’s needs and unique preferences to ensure a hassle-free journey.
