Planning Safe Cat Air Travel

Name: Maureen
Number of Pets: 5
Pet Type: Cats
Pet Breed: Domestic
From: Bourne, MA
To: Seattle, WA

Hi PetRelocation,

I am planning to move to Bainbridge Island, WA. I am trying to find a safe way to relocate my five cats. When you relocate cats, are they transported in a cargo area of a plane? I would also like to find our how this process works and an estimate of the price. Are there any veterinary people that travel with the pets? One of my cats has asthma.

Thank you,
Maureen
 

Hi Maureen,

Thanks for your question, we'd be happy to share some tips and advice with you. To start, take a look at the domestic pet travel requirements for the United States.

Typically, when moving a long distance with this many cats, we would book a flight in the cargo area on a pet-friendly airline such as United. Though cargo travel initially sounds scary to many pet owners, when handled by an experienced and dedicated airline it is a safe choice. Pets are the last to be loaded onto the aircraft and the first to be removed, and during flight they are in a pressure and temperature-controlled area.

In terms of costs, airline rates are calculated based on the weight and amount of space your cats and their crates take up, and vet fees should also be factored in for the visits/paperwork referenced above. If you decide to hire help with transportation to the airport, etc., the overall cost will increase.

You can help your cats prepare for the flight by working to crate-train them in the weeks before you move, and it's always a good idea to discuss any health-related questions you have with your vet. We have helped pets with various health issues move before -- it may require special planning and care, and we'd be happy to discuss your options with you.

If you would like to hear from one of our Specialists about our door-to-door services, please fill out our free quote form. Hope this helps to get you started, and please let us know if we can be of further assistance. Good luck!