Tips for Choosing a Pet Carrier for Airline Travel

Contact your airline for their requirements, not all airline requirements are the same. Some of the requirements will include the size of pet carriers both onboard and in cargo, a pet health certificate and proof of certain vaccines, subject to where you are flying to. There are mainly two types of carriers, a hard carrier or crate and a soft carrier.  Traveling with your pet isn’t always easy, this will help you prepare.

1)    How do I choose the size for my pet?

a.    Your pet must be able to lay down, stand up, and turn around without touching the top or sides.  If they touch the carrier is too small.  If the carrier is too large, your pet will not feel secure and may bounce around.

2)    How do I choose an airline approved carrier?

a.    The carrier has to have good air circulation as well as be secure enough to keep your pet from getting out. The carrier should be able to hold your pet be comfortable for the whole flight.  Recommend the carrier have a pocket to hold treats for airline paperwork.

b.    I would recommend the airline approved soft carriers for onboard travel because most airlines require you to put the carrier under the seat. As long as your pet(s) are small and do not disturb other passengers, they are normally allowed to travel with their owners. If your pet is an escape artist, use zip ties on the closures, do not use Velcro closures.

c.    I would recommend the airline approved hard carriers for cargo travel, it provides your pet some extra protection in case something gets loose in the cargo hold. These are normally for larger pets. If your pet is an escape artist, use zip ties on the closures, do not use Velcro closures.

d.    Once you have chosen a carrier call the airline to make very sure that they allow the specific carrier, crate or kennel.  

Cat Boarding Tips

You need to make a trip for pleasure or work but you have cats.  You have three options, 1) Hire a pet sitter, 2) Take your cat(s) with you, or 3) Board your cats.  You decide to board your cat(s). 

Check around for boarding centers.  Visit the place you want to board your cat.  There are many boarding options available.

I have seen some cat boarding areas that are near the front door and in wire cages.  I do not suggest you board there.  The cats need a place a place of their own and not in with the dog boarding. 

Is the space clean, quiet and ventilated?

Do not be afraid to ask questions.

What shots are needed to board?  Most require rabies and distemper, but always ask.

What kind of food to they provide?  Can you provide your own food?

What kind of bedding do they get?

If you have multiple cats, is there an opening between kennels so they can still be together if they want to.

How often do they clean the kennels/litter?

Are they occasionally checked on?

Is there 8/16/24 hour service.

What times can you drop them off and pick them up.

Are there windows for natural light?

Do they provide specialized care?  Your cat may need daily medicine.  I have a cat that needs medicine every eight hours.

Some places have different sized kennels or Condos with different options.

Some places may provide play time.  

Some have discount rates on a second or third cat.

Can you call in and check on your cat(s).

I hope these tips help you and your cat.