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As a cat owner, you may be wondering how to fly with your furry friend on American Airlines. The good news is that American Airlines allows cats to fly with their owners under certain conditions, and with proper preparation, you can help ensure a safe and comfortable flight for your feline companion.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps you need to take before, during, and after your flight to help make the experience as stress-free as possible for both you and your cat. From choosing the right carrier to familiarizing your cat with air travel, we’ve got you covered. So let’s get started and learn how to fly with a cat on American Airlines!
How to Fly With a Cat American Airlines?
If you’re planning on flying with your furry feline friend, it’s important to know the rules and regulations set by the airline. American Airlines is one of the most pet-friendly airlines in the United States, but there are certain things you need to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey for both you and your cat.
1. Check American Airlines’ Pet Policy
Before booking your flight, make sure to check American Airlines’ pet policy. You’ll need to know the rules and regulations regarding pet travel, such as the size of the carrier, the type of carrier, and the fees involved. American Airlines allows cats to travel in the cabin or as checked baggage, but not as cargo.
If you’re planning to bring your cat in the cabin, you’ll need to make sure that the carrier fits under the seat in front of you. The maximum dimensions for a carrier are 19 inches long x 13 inches wide x 9 inches high.
If you’re planning to bring your cat as checked baggage, you’ll need to make sure that the carrier meets the airline’s requirements. The maximum dimensions for a carrier are 40 inches long x 27 inches wide x 30 inches high.
2. Book Your Flight
Once you’ve checked American Airlines’ pet policy and made sure that your cat meets the requirements, it’s time to book your flight. You’ll need to call the airline’s reservation department to book your cat’s travel. It’s important to book your cat’s travel early, as there are a limited number of pet spots on each flight.
When booking your flight, make sure to let the reservation agent know that you’ll be traveling with a cat. You’ll need to provide the agent with your cat’s information, such as the breed, age, and weight.
3. Prepare Your Cat for Travel
Preparing your cat for travel is an important part of ensuring a comfortable and stress-free journey. Before your flight, make sure to:
– Get your cat used to the carrier by leaving it open in your home for a few days before your trip.
– Place a familiar blanket or toy in the carrier to make your cat feel more comfortable.
– Make sure your cat is up-to-date on all vaccinations and has a health certificate from your veterinarian.
– Feed your cat a light meal a few hours before your flight and make sure they have access to water.
– Consider using a pheromone spray or collar to help calm your cat during the flight.
4. Arrive at the Airport Early
When traveling with a pet, it’s important to arrive at the airport early to allow plenty of time for check-in and security. American Airlines recommends arriving at least 2 hours before your flight for domestic travel and 3 hours for international travel.
When you arrive at the airport, go to the check-in counter to check in your cat. You’ll need to provide the airline with your cat’s health certificate and pay any fees involved.
5. Boarding Your Flight
When it’s time to board your flight, you’ll need to take your cat out of the carrier and carry them through security. The carrier will need to be screened separately.
Once you’re on the plane, place your cat back in the carrier and stow it under the seat in front of you. Make sure to keep your cat’s head facing towards you during takeoff and landing.
6. During the Flight
During the flight, it’s important to check on your cat regularly to make sure they’re comfortable and calm. If your cat seems distressed or anxious, try to comfort them by speaking softly and petting them through the carrier.
If your cat needs to use the litter box during the flight, you’ll need to take them to the airplane’s lavatory. Make sure to place a disposable litter box in the lavatory and clean up after your cat.
7. After the Flight
When you arrive at your destination, go to the baggage claim area to collect your cat. If your cat was checked as baggage, they’ll be delivered to the oversized baggage area.
Take your cat out of the carrier as soon as possible and give them some food and water. Make sure to check them over for any signs of stress or illness.
8. Benefits of Flying With American Airlines
Flying with American Airlines has many benefits for pet owners. American Airlines is one of the most pet-friendly airlines in the United States and allows cats to travel in the cabin or as checked baggage.
American Airlines also offers a frequent flyer program for pets called the AAdvantage® program. This program allows you to earn miles for your pet’s travel, which you can redeem for future flights.
9. American Airlines vs Other Airlines
Compared to other airlines, American Airlines is one of the most pet-friendly airlines in the United States. American Airlines allows cats to travel in the cabin or as checked baggage, while other airlines may only allow cats to travel as cargo.
American Airlines also has a more lenient pet policy, allowing larger carriers and more breeds of cats to travel. Other airlines may have stricter requirements for pet travel.
10. Conclusion
Flying with your cat can be a daunting experience, but with the right preparation and knowledge, it can be a comfortable and stress-free journey for both you and your furry feline friend. By following American Airlines’ pet policy and preparing your cat for travel, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable flight. Don’t be afraid to ask the airline for assistance during your journey, and remember to enjoy the experience of traveling with your beloved pet.
Contents
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the requirements for flying with a cat on American Airlines?
- How do I book a flight for my cat on American Airlines?
- What kind of carrier do I need for my cat when flying on American Airlines?
- Can I bring more than one cat with me on American Airlines?
- What should I do to prepare my cat for flying on American Airlines?
- What Is United Airlines Slogan?
- The Top 5 Destinations To Explore With United Airlines
- What Are United Regional Airlines?
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements for flying with a cat on American Airlines?
According to American Airlines’ pet policy, you are allowed to bring your cat on board as long as it meets certain requirements. Your cat must be at least 8 weeks old and in good health, and you must have a valid health certificate from your veterinarian. Additionally, your cat must be able to fit in a carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.
It’s important to note that there may be additional restrictions or requirements based on your destination or the type of aircraft you’ll be flying on. Be sure to check with American Airlines before booking your flight to ensure that you have all the necessary information.
How do I book a flight for my cat on American Airlines?
Booking a flight for your cat on American Airlines is a straightforward process. When booking your own ticket, simply select the option to add a pet to your reservation. You’ll need to provide some basic information about your cat, including its name, breed, and weight, as well as the size of its carrier.
Keep in mind that there may be additional fees for traveling with a pet, and that some routes may not allow pets to travel in the cabin. Make sure to check with American Airlines before booking to ensure that your cat can travel with you.
What kind of carrier do I need for my cat when flying on American Airlines?
When flying with a cat on American Airlines, you’ll need to have an airline-approved carrier that can fit under the seat in front of you. The carrier should be large enough for your cat to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, and should be well-ventilated and leak-proof.
It’s also important to ensure that the carrier is sturdy and secure, with no rips, tears, or other damage that could endanger your cat during transport. American Airlines also recommends labeling the carrier with your name, phone number, and the name of your cat.
Can I bring more than one cat with me on American Airlines?
Yes, American Airlines allows passengers to bring up to two cats with them on board, as long as they each have their own carrier that meets the airline’s requirements. Keep in mind that there may be additional fees for traveling with multiple pets, and that you should check with American Airlines before booking to ensure that your cats can travel with you.
If you plan to bring more than two cats with you, you may need to make special arrangements with the airline or consider shipping them as cargo instead.
What should I do to prepare my cat for flying on American Airlines?
Traveling can be stressful for cats, so it’s important to take steps to prepare your pet for the flight. Start by acclimating your cat to its carrier in the weeks leading up to the trip, and consider using pheromone sprays or other calming aids to help reduce anxiety.
You should also talk to your veterinarian about any additional steps you can take to ensure your cat’s comfort and safety during travel, such as providing medication or adjusting its diet. Finally, be sure to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare so that you and your cat can go through security and boarding without feeling rushed or stressed.
In conclusion, flying with your cat on American Airlines can be a smooth and stress-free experience if you plan ahead and follow the guidelines set by the airline. Remember to book your cat’s ticket in advance, as space is limited in the cabin. Also, make sure to have all the necessary documentation and supplies for your cat, including a carrier that meets the airline’s size and safety requirements.
When traveling with your cat, it’s important to prioritize their comfort and well-being. Try to book a direct flight if possible, and avoid traveling during extreme temperatures. Once on board, keep your cat’s carrier under the seat in front of you and provide them with food, water, and a comfortable place to rest.
Overall, with a little preparation and consideration, flying with your cat on American Airlines can be a positive experience for both you and your furry companion. Happy travels!
