Flying with cats – Complete guide 2025

Taking your cat on a plane isn’t as scary as people make it sound. Once you know the rules and how to prepare, it becomes just another kind of trip — with a bit more fur involved. Here’s how to make flying with your cat calm, safe, and honestly, much easier than you think.

Flying with cats: rules and what to expect

First and foremost: you can fly with your cat as many people not just across Europe do it even regularly. But it is always good to know what to actually expect, especially if it’s your first flight with a cat.

When it comes to airlines, each of them has its own rules, but most of them follow the same general structure: small cats can travel in the cabin, larger/heavier ones need to fly in the hold. In this article you also find cat friendly airlines, restrictions, pet travel documents and more helpful info.

Flying with cats – Overview

(You can jump to section ↓)

• In cabin/hold or cargo ›
• Cat friendly airlines ›
• Breed & age restrictions ›
• Travel documents ›
• Booking process + cost ›
• Preparation ›
• Carriers information + TOP 3 ›
• At the airport + security check ›
• On board ›
• After landing ›
• Sedatives for cats ›
• FAQs ›

Cabin vs. hold vs. cargo

Most airlines divide pet travel into three categories — and knowing the difference helps you choose the safest and most comfortable option for your cat.

Cat in cabin

If your cat weighs under 8 kg including the carrier, you can usually bring them into the cabin with you. The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you and stay closed throughout the flight. For most cats, this is the least stressful option – they can hear your voice and feel your presence, which helps them stay calm.

Cat in hold (checked baggage)

If your cat exceeds the cabin limit, it may travel as checked baggage in the aircraft hold. This is a temperature-controlled and pressurised section of the plane, separate from passenger luggage. It’s safe when handled properly, but still more stressful than the cabin – we only recommend it if there’s no other choice.

Cat as cargo

Some airlines handle pets as “cargo” — often on long-haul or connecting routes. This means that your cat tarvels separately from you and goes through a cargo terminal. This option is requiring a little bit more planning and paperwork and people usually choose it while moving long-distance.

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Cat friendly airlines

Across Europe, many major airlines welcome cats on board – though their conditions differ slightly.
Here’s a few examples of the most popular airlines in Europe & their rules:

• Lufthansa, KLM, Air France, Finnair, Vueling, ITA Airways, Austrian Airlines → cats allowed in cabin up to 8 kg (including carrier).
• Ryanair, Wizz Air, EasyJet → no pets in cabin or hold (except certified assistance animals).
• British Airways → pets only via cargo service, not in cabin.

Check our airline guides here

• 
  KLM pet policy in 2025 | All about pet travel with the Dutch airline
• 
  ITA Airways pet policy 2025 – Price, rules, booking and more
• 
  Air France pet policy for 2025 | Price, booking process and more
• 
  Finnair pet policy in 2025 | Booking, prices, pets in cabin & more
• 
  Vueling pet policy 2025 – Booking, prices & more + VIDEO how to book a ticket
• 
  Ryanair pet policy 2025 | What to know about flying with dogs and cats

Always check these 3 things:

1. The weight and size limits for the carrier.
2. Whether pets are allowed on your specific route and aircraft type.
3. If there’s a limit on the number of pets per flight (usually two or three).

✈️ PetAbroad team tip: Book your cat’s spot as early as possible — airlines have limited “pet seats”, and once they’re gone, they’re gone.

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Breed and age restrictions while flying with cats

When flying with your cat, the same as it applies with dog travel, there are some restrictions or special rules for certain breeds or too young kittens.

Age: For your cat to be able to fly, it must be at least 8–12 weeks old to fly. The explanation is quite easy: younger kittens may not yet be vaccinated against rabies and that makes them ineligible for any air travel.

Breed: Becasue some flat-faced (also known as “brachycephalic”) breeds such as Persians, Himalayans or Exotic Shorthairs can have breathing difficulties during flights, some airlines completely ban them from travelling in the hold for safety reasons.

Health: Also airlines and vets both recommend avoiding flights for pregnant or ill cats.

🐾 — Moving to Europe with pet — ✈️

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Cat travel documents and health requirements

Getting the paperwork right is the least fun part of travelling with a cat — but it’s the one thing you really don’t want to mess up.
We’ve seen people turned away at check-in because of a missing signature or a rabies shot that was one day too old. Once you go through that once (we did…), you never forget to triple-check again.

EU Pet Passport or Animal Health Certificate (AHC)

If you’re flying within the EU, life’s a bit easier — your cat needs an EU Pet Passport.
It’s a small blue booklet you get from your vet, and it lists everything: microchip number, vaccination details, and your info as the owner.
We keep ours in a clear sleeve because airport counters are never clean, and somehow it always rains when you least need it.

If your flight starts or ends outside the EU — say from the UK, Turkey, or the US — you’ll need an Animal Health Certificate instead.
Only an Official Veterinarian can issue it, and it’s valid for 10 days to enter the EU, then four months for travel within.
It’s basically a temporary passport, but don’t leave it to the last minute — vets get booked fast before holidays.

💡 If you’re travelling from the US:
You might come across mentions of a “DOT form” — this document is required only for service or emotional support animals, not for regular pets.
For your cat travelling as a pet in cabin, a standard veterinary health certificate issued by your vet is enough. It’s usually valid for 10 days before departure and proves your cat is healthy and vaccinated.

Vaccinations and microchip

Every cat flying across borders needs two things:
a microchip (ISO 11784/11785 compliant) and a valid rabies vaccination.
The rabies jab has to be given after the chip and at least 21 days before travel.
Not 20. Not “about three weeks”. Exactly 21.

Other vaccines aren’t mandatory but worth doing — think of them as insurance. We always ask the vet for a quick overall check-up before long trips, even when it’s not required. It just feels right.

Also, don’t forget to check the microchip number in the passport. Once, ours had a single digit off because the vet’s handwriting was smudged — fixed it in time, but it could’ve ruined the trip.

For cats, the vaccination and documentation rules are the same as for dogs. However, parasite treatment (deworming) is not required when travelling to most EU countries — only if your destination is the UK, Ireland, Finland or Malta.

Destination rules and local quirks

Even inside Europe, every country loves to have its own twist on pet travel rules.
Before you fly, spend five minutes checking the official government or embassy website for your destination — it’ll save you a headache at customs.

Some examples from our travels:

• UK and Ireland – still need an AHC, no quarantine but paperwork must be spotless.
• Malta – wants pre-approval by airport vet officers; they actually reply quickly by email.
• Norway and Switzerland – accept EU passports but sometimes require online notification.
• Non-EU countries – may ask for a blood test or import permit, so check weeks in advance.

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Booking a flight with your cat

Booking a flight for your cat isn’t rocket science — it’s mostly about timing and a bit of patience. Airlines love their rules, and they love limiting the number of pets per flight even more. We learned the hard way that “I’ll add the cat later” often means no seats left for furry passengers.

So yes, book your cat’s spot at the same time as yours if you can. It saves you stress, emails, and probably a few euros.

How to book a flight your a cat

Because every airline does it differently, here are the basic steps which apply to all of them and never fail.

1. Check the pet policy first. Some routes or aircraft types simply don’t take pets.
2. Book early. Most flights only allow two or three animals in the cabin.
3. Call or email customer service if the online form doesn’t show a pet option — it’s common.
4. Ask for written confirmation. A quick PDF or note on your e-ticket is your golden proof at check-in.

You’ll usually get a small line added to your ticket like “1 pet in cabin – confirmed”. Print it or screenshot it. It sounds silly, but we once had a gate agent who didn’t see it in her system — that screenshot saved our flight.

Pet fees and costs

Flying with your cat isn’t free, but it’s not outrageous either. Prices for a flight ticket vary by airline, distance, and whether your cat’s in the cabin or the hold.

Here’s roughly what we’ve paid across Europe:

• Cabin: around €40–€100 per flight.
• Hold: €120–€300, depending on route and carrier.

It’s usually charged as a service fee, not as luggage. Some airlines make you pay it at booking, others at check-in.

The cost doesn’t change if your cat weighs 4 kg or 7.9 kg — only the category (cabin or hold) matters. Cabin travel wins every time: cheaper, calmer, and your cat stays right by your feet.

Changing or cancelling flights

Here’s a small trap few people realise: if you change your flight online, your cat’s booking doesn’t move automatically.
You have to call and make sure there’s still a pet slot on the new flight. Otherwise, you’ll end up confirmed while your cat is… not.

And if your cat suddenly can’t travel — maybe a vaccine issue or last-minute illness — let the airline know early.
Some will refund part of the pet fee if you give them notice, but only if you ask nicely (and early).

We’ve had to reschedule once due to a missed health certificate, and trust us — talking to a real person on the phone beats arguing at the airport any day.

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Preparing a cat for a flight

A calm cat makes for a calm journey — and that starts long before you even reach the airport. Unlike dogs, most cats aren’t used to leaving their familiar space, so a little preparation can make a world of difference.

We at PetAbroad always start our prep a couple of weeks in advance. It’s about creating comfort, familiarity, and a sense of safety — so your cat feels at home, even high up in the air.

1. Get your cat used to the carrier

Your cat’s carrier isn’t just a travel bag — it’s their safe zone. Introduce it early, ideally 2–3 weeks before your trip, so it becomes something familiar, not frightening.

Start by leaving the carrier open in your home with a blanket or toy inside. Encourage your cat to explore it voluntarily — maybe even feed a few treats inside. Once your cat naps there willingly, you’re halfway there.

Then, take a few short car rides with the carrier so your cat gets used to movement and new sounds. That way, the airport and flight won’t feel like such a shock.

🐾 PetAbroad tip: Place one of your worn T-shirts inside the carrier before the flight — your scent helps your cat relax more than anything else.

2. Visit your vet before a flight with your cat

We always recommend to book a quick visit to the vet before every international trip. You can schedule it 5–10 days before departure so you have time to work out all the documents and check vaccinations.

Ask your vet to:

• Check your cat’s general health and fitness to fly.
• Check rabies vaccination dates and microchip information.
• Issue or sign any required pet passport or health certificate.

If your cat tends to get anxious, this is also the moment to discuss natural calming options. Many vets recommend pheromone sprays, mild supplements like Zylkene, or herbal remedies — far safer than sedatives.

✈️ Pro tip: Some airlines request a “fit-to-fly” note from your vet — it’s a short confirmation that your cat is healthy. It’s worth having one even if not required.

3. Feeding before the flight

When it comes to food and water before travelling, less is more. Feed your cat a light meal about 4–6 hours before departure, so their stomach has time to settle.

We recommend you to bring a collapsible travel bowl and offer small sips of water especially during longer flights or layovers.

4. Comfort items for cats on plane

Even small details can make your cat feel safer. Pack a few familiar things such as:

• a soft blanket or towel,
• one or two small toys,
• a few treats,
• cleaning wipes and a spare pee pad (just in case).

Cats are creatures of routine — so anything that smells like “home” makes them feel secure, even in a busy cabin.

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Choosing the right cat carrier

Finding the right carrier for your cat is a bit like finding the right suitcase for yourself — it needs to fit, feel safe, and survive more than one trip. A good carrier makes every journey calmer, while the wrong one can turn check-in into a nightmare (been there, done that).

When you travel often, the carrier becomes more than a bag; it’s your cat’s tiny home on the move. If they’re happy in there, everything else goes smoother — boarding, security, even landing.

Cat cabin carriers

For cabin travel, soft-sided carriers are your best friend. They flex a little to fit under the seat, breathe well, and weigh next to nothing. Most airlines stick to similar limits — around 45 × 30 × 25 cm, give or take.

Here’s what to look for:

• Mesh panels for air and visibility.
• A top opening, so you can lift your cat easily at security.
• Strong zippers that won’t burst open mid-flight.
• A soft base pad or blanket they already know.

We’ve tried a few over the years — the expandable ones are a game changer. Once you’re in the air, unzip the side panel slightly and your cat suddenly has double the space. Just make sure the flight attendant’s okay with it first.

But here are our TOP 3 favorite carriers:

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Hard crates for hold travel

If your cat’s flying in the hold, you’ll need a hard IATA-approved crate — think sturdy, not fancy. It should survive bumps, pressure changes, and the occasional impatient baggage handler.

Go for:

• rigid plastic or fibreglass body,
• metal bolts instead of clips,
• space for your cat to stand and turn,
• a small water bowl attached to the door.

Stick a label on it saying LIVE ANIMAL (in big letters) and tape a bag of dry food on top. We always add a photo of the cat and our phone number too — it’s not required, but it feels right.

And please, no padlocks. If there’s an emergency, staff must be able to open the crate quickly. Use cable ties — they’re secure but still easy to cut.

PetAbroad note

After years of flying with cats, we’ve learned that a great carrier is the best investment you can make. Not the most expensive one — the one your cat actually likes. Our go-to model has survived rain, turbulence, and an accidental coffee spill in Munich airport. Still going strong.

If your carrier feels like a little den rather than a box, your cat will walk in willingly. And that alone makes every trip 100 % easier.

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At the airport and security check

Airports can be stressful for pets, but with a little planning, you can make it surprisingly easy for your cat (and yourself).

We at PetAbroad always arrive early when flying with our cats. It gives us time to handle check-in calmly, visit a pet relief area if available, and avoid rushing — because cats pick up on your energy.

Check-in process

When you are travelling with a cat or any other pet, you usually can’t check in online as most airlines require you to visit the check-in desk in person so staff can check your documents and cat’s carrier.

Be prepared for:

• Showing your EU Pet Passport or Animal Health Certificate (AHC),
• Rabies vaccination proof,
• and your pet booking confirmation.

Some airlines will weigh the carrier to make sure it’s within the cabin weight limit (usually 8 kg total). If everything’s fine, they’ll tag the carrier and note your cat as a “special passenger”.

Airport security

Security screening with a cat can sound daunting, but it’s quite simple once you know what to expect.

Here’s how it works:

You’ll go through the regular passenger security line. Your carrier goes through the X-ray scanner (just like a laptop or handbag). Your cat must be taken out of the carrier and carried through the body scanner in your arms (or on a secure harness).

After security, find a quiet corner to let your cat settle again inside the carrier. Offer a small treat or a few gentle words — this short pause helps reset their nerves before boarding.

✈️ PetAbroad team tip: A well-fitted harness is your best friend here. Never rely only on holding your cat in your arms — a sudden noise can make even the calmest pet bolt. You can find our favorite one here.

Pet relief areas

More and more European airports now offer designated pet relief zones. These areas are perfect for letting your cat stretch, drink some water, or use a small travel litter box before boarding.

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On board: what to expect

Once you’ve boarded, the hardest part is over. Your cat has gone through check-in, security, and all the commotion of the airport — now it’s time to settle in for the flight itself.

The cabin noise and gentle vibration of the aircraft actually help many cats relax. But still, there are a few things which you can do to make your cat’s time on board as nice as possible.

During the flight

Once seated, place the carrier under the seat in front of you for take-off and landing — that’s required by nearly all airlines.
After the seatbelt sign is off, you can usually slide the carrier slightly forward or to the side to give your cat a bit more room and airflow.

Keep the carrier closed at all times — even a small gap can be tempting for a curious cat. Instead, quietly talk to them through the mesh or rest your hand on the carrier so they know you’re there.

If it’s a longer flight:

• Offer a few sips of water every couple of hours.
• Avoid opening the carrier completely; use a travel bottle with a spout or dropper.
• Never try to feed a full meal on board — most cats will prefer to wait until after landing.

Keeping your cat calm

Cats are surprisingly adaptable travellers once they feel safe. The cabin hum acts like white noise, which helps many fall asleep soon after take-off.

But thing which helps the most is to stay calm yourself as cats instantly sense your energy. You can also use pheromone spray (like Feliway) inside the carrier before boarding – it naturally reduces stress.

Also for nervous cats, a light blanket over the carrier can block visual stress and help them rest. Just make sure there’s still good ventilation.

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After landing

Touchdown! Once you’ve made it through the flight, it’s time to help your cat settle back. It’s often overlooked, but it’s one of the most important moments of the journey, because it will help your cat feel safe again after hours of unfamiliarity.

Customs and arrival checks

If you’re arriving from within the EU, this is usually very simple — in most countries, you just walk through the “green lane” if all documents are valid.

For non-EU arrivals (including the UK, Norway, or Switzerland), there may be a short inspection by a vet or customs officer. You will be asked to show your EU Pet Passport or Animal Health Certificate (AHC) with microchip details, and rabies vaccination record.

Hydration and recovery

After passing customs, go find a quiet corner before opening the carrier. Cats need a few moments to reorient themselves. You can definitely offer a small amount of fresh water, and then a light meal if your cat seems hungry.

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Sedatives for cats – yes or no?

This is one of the most common questions we get from cat owners before their first flight — and for good reason. No one wants their pet to panic in the air. But when it comes to sedatives, the short answer is: usually no.

Majority airlines and many veterinarians advise against using sedation for cats during air travel. While it may sound like the kindest option, sedatives can actually make flying more dangerous.

Why sedation is risky

Sedation can affect how your cat’s body handles altitude, pressure and temperature changes.
Common side effects include:

• slower breathing or irregular heartbeat,
• dizziness and loss of balance,
• lower body temperature,
• and dehydration.

At cruising altitude, even mild drowsiness can become risky because oxygen levels are slightly lower than on the ground. That’s why many airlines — including KLM, Lufthansa and Finnair — specifically state that sedated animals may be refused boarding.

Safer calming alternatives

If your cat is anxious by nature, there are much gentler and safer ways to help them travel peacefully.

Natural calming options include:

Pheromone sprays (like Feliway) – these sprays mimic the natural “happy signals” cats release when they feel safe and relaxed. A few sprays inside the carrier about 15 minutes before you leave can really help your cat settle.

We’ve used Feliway Optimum for years and honestly, it works wonders on anxious travellers. It’s scent-free for humans, vet-approved, and gentle enough to use regularly — no sedatives, just calm feeling for your cat.

Comfort items – a soft blanket, familiar scent, or even your voice can be surprisingly effective.

Tip from PetAbroad team: You can start using pheromone sprays or supplements a few days before the trip, so your cat associates them with calm, not stress.

When sedation might be considered

There are a few rare cases where a vet may still recommend a very mild sedative — for example, for cats with severe travel phobia or medical conditions that make stress dangerous.
If that’s your situation, always:

• use only prescribed medication (never over-the-counter human drugs),
• discuss dosage and timing carefully,
• and let your airline know in advance.

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Final PetAbroad note

Flying with a cat might sound scary at first, but when you get the hang of it, get to know the rules and prepare for it, it’s really not that bad and can be a smooth ride!

We’ve flown across Europe with our own cats countless times — and every journey reinforced one simple truth:
cats are far more adaptable than we think at the end of the day.

With the right carrier, the right documents, and your familiar voice nearby, your cat will do just fine — maybe even better than you expect.

Safe travels from all of us at PetAbroad!

FAQs about cats on planes