You’ve probably heard them too. There are countless myths about flying with pets—especially online—but many of them simply aren’t true. In this article, we’ll uncover and explain the most common ones.
Myth 1: The Cargo hold is a freezing, unpressurized death trap
Let’s tackle the biggest myth first! We at the PetAbroad team know how hard it is to imagine your pet alone in the belly of a plane. But here’s the reality: cargo holds for live animals are pressurized and temperature-controlled, just like the passenger cabin. Airlines follow strict regulations to keep pets safe, with oxygen levels and warmth maintained throughout the flight.
Yes, it’s noisy and unfamiliar for your pet, but the physical conditions are designed to protect them. If you’re still worried, choose airlines with strong pet transport reputations and ask about their specific protocols.
💡 Also, don’t forget to check out our complete travel guides for dogs and cats—you’ll find all the essential information and tips you need for your next trip.
Myth 2: Sedating your pet is the safest way to calm them for a flight
This is one of the most dangerous myths out there. Sedatives can interfere with your pet’s ability to regulate their body temperature and balance, especially during takeoff and landing when cabin pressure changes.
Most airlines and vets strongly advise against sedation for this reason. Instead, focus on crate training and positive reinforcement long before your trip. A familiar carrier, a favorite toy, your t-shirt for the smell, and a calm routine will do far more to ease their stress than medication ever could.
Myth 3: A bigger crate means more comfort and safety for your pet
It’s tempting to think more space equals more comfort, but an oversized crate can actually be riskier. During turbulence or sudden movements, a pet in a too-large crate can get tossed around and injured.
The IATA (International Air Transport Association) requires crates to be just big enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally—no more, no less. Think of it as a cozy den, not a spacious suite.
Myth 4: An EU Pet Passport Is All You Need for International Travel
If you’re traveling within the EU, your pet passport and rabies vaccination are usually enough. But if you’re heading to countries like Australia, New Zealand, Japan, or Singapore, you’re in for a surprise. These destinations often require blood tests, parasite treatments, import permits, and even months-long quarantines.
Always check the official import rules for your destination well in advance—some processes take months to complete.
Myth 5: Brachycephalic (Snub-Nosed) breeds can fly just like any other dog or cat
Pugs, Bulldogs, Persian cats—they’re adorable, but their flat faces make flying extremely risky. Their shortened airways make it hard to breathe, especially under stress or in warm conditions.
That is the reason many airlines ban or at least restrict these breeds from flying, especially in cargo. If you own a snub-nosed pet, research pet-friendly airlines that allow them in-cabin or consider alternative travel options.
🐾 — Read: Eurostar trains pet policy — 🚆
Myth 6: You should give your pet a large meal before the flight to keep them full
A big meal before flying is a recipe for an upset stomach—or worse, vomiting and dehydration. Instead, offer a light meal a few hours before departure and avoid feeding right before the flight. If your pet is prone to motion sickness, ask your vet about safe, non-sedative options to keep them comfortable.
Bonus tip: If your dog is flying in the cabin, a chew toy or treat during takeoff and landing can help them swallow more often, which may ease ear pressure—just like chewing gum helps us!
Myth 7: Pet carriers are just thrown around with regular luggage
We’ve all heard horror stories about pets being mistreated in cargo, but the reality is that pet carriers are handled separately from regular luggage. They’re loaded last, secured to prevent shifting, and unloaded first. Handlers are trained to treat live animals with care.
That said, always use a sturdy, IATA-approved crate and label it clearly with “Live Animal” stickers.
Myth 8: A standard water bowl is sufficient for hydration in the crate
An open water bowl is a spill waiting to happen. Between loading, unloading, and turbulence, your pet could end up soaked and thirsty.
Instead, use a clip-on water bottle designed for crates or freeze water in a bowl so it melts slowly during the flight. This ensures your pet stays hydrated without the mess.
Myth 9: Small pets in the cabin fly for free as a carry-on item
Nope. Almost every airline charges a separate fee for pets in the cabin, and it’s rarely cheap. These fees vary widely, so always check the airline’s policy when booking. And remember: even if your pet is small, they still need to meet carrier size requirements and be comfortable under the seat.
🐾 — How much flight ticket for pets cost — ✈️
Myth 10: All aircraft and airlines have the same pet transport capabilities
Not all planes are pet-friendly. Smaller regional jets, for example, often lack pressurized cargo holds, meaning pets can’t travel on those routes at all. Even among major airlines, policies on breed restrictions, crate sizes, and seasonal embargoes (due to extreme heat or cold) vary.
Always confirm your airline’s pet policy and the specific aircraft type for your flight before booking.