How to Fly a Cat Internationally | Expert Cat Travel Guide

When you set out to fly a cat internationally, it can feel like a daunting process — especially if you’ve never done it before. From paperwork to airline rules to ensuring your cat’s comfort and safety, there are a lot of details to navigate.

The good news is: with proper planning and care, cats can fly internationally safely and successfully. At Cabin Companions, we’ve helped relocate thousands of cats across the U.S. and to destinations all around the world — and we know just how important it is to make each trip as smooth and stress-free as possible, for both cats and their people.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about flying a cat internationally — and share tips we’ve learned from years of experience helping cats travel safely.

Is It Safe to Fly a Cat Internationally?

In most cases, yes — when done properly, flying in-cabin with a dedicated escort is a very safe option for cats.

That said, not all travel methods are created equal. In-cabin travel (where your cat is with you or with a Cabin Companion in the cabin of the plane) is far safer than cargo transport, which can involve temperature fluctuations, rough handling, and extended time away from supervision.

Whenever possible, we strongly recommend choosing in-cabin flights for international cat travel — it allows your cat to remain supervised, calm, and comfortable for the duration of the trip.

What Paperwork Do You Need to Fly a Cat Internationally?

One of the trickiest parts of international travel is making sure you have the proper paperwork for your cat. This varies depending on your destination country, but typically includes:
• A USDA-endorsed international health certificate
• Proof of current rabies vaccination
• Microchip documentation (required for many countries)
• Any import permits or additional veterinary requirements specific to your destination

Some countries have very straightforward requirements — others are more complex and time-sensitive. It’s best to start the paperwork process well in advance (at least 2–4 months ahead of your intended travel date).

 

How to Prepare Your Cat for an International Flight

The better prepared your cat is, the smoother the journey will be. Here are some steps we recommend:
• Choose the right carrier. Use a soft-sided, airline-approved carrier with good ventilation and enough room for your cat to turn around comfortably.
• Acclimate your cat to the carrier. Leave the carrier out in your home well ahead of the trip, and encourage your cat to explore it with treats and positive reinforcement.
• Plan feeding and hydration. We generally recommend feeding a light meal several hours before travel, and offering water before and after the flight.
• Discuss calming options with your vet. For some cats, mild calming aids (such as Feliway spray or vet-recommended supplements) can help — but always check with your veterinarian first. Also, for safety, virtually no airline will allow a pet to fly that has been sedated, so that should be almost universally avoided.

How to Choose the Right Flight

When booking flights, consider:
• Direct flights are always preferable when available — fewer transitions mean less stress for your cat.
• Time of day. Early morning or evening flights are often quieter and less crowded.
• Season. Avoid peak heat times if possible, even for in-cabin travel — cooler months are ideal.
• Airline policies. Not all airlines have the same policies for flying with cats — it’s important to verify the exact rules for your chosen carrier.

What to Expect on Travel Day

On the day of travel:
• Check-in. You’ll check in with your cat in their carrier at the airline counter.
• Security. At TSA, you’ll typically carry your cat through the metal detector while the carrier is scanned.
• In-flight. Your cat will remain in their carrier under the seat in front of you (or at our feet if traveling with one of us. Throughout the flight, calm, quiet handling makes all the difference.
• Arrival. Some countries have customs or veterinary inspections upon arrival — we always prepare for this in advance to ensure everything goes smoothly.

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