Pet Travel Question: Should I Take My Cats With Me to the UK?

Name: Megan
Number of Pets: 5
Pet Type: Cats
Pet Breed: Mixed Breed/ American Shorthair and European Shorthair
From: Chicago, USA
To: London, UK

Hi,

I am moving for an initial period of six months to London and want to bring my cats with me. I have found housing for us all (my boyfriend too) but have been confronted by many people telling me about how expensive everything is and how moving is very bad for the cats. These cats have been with us since they were young and I believe they would do better moving with us than to an entirely new place with strangers for a short term.

I'm writing to ask you for your help? Is moving the cats endangering their lives? Am I being selfish in wanting them to be with us?

Thanks,

Megan

Hi Megan,

These are common concerns of caring pet owners who find themselves facing a long-distance relocation. Though it may seem scary, pet air travel is quite safe, especially when using a pet-friendly airline such as United, KLM, or Lufthansa. However, whether or not your cats are capable of safely traveling to England depends on their overall health and must be determined by your vet. Unless your cats are especially sick or elderly, they should be able to fly safely. We have moved many cats to places all over the world, including the UK!

Pet transport can get pretty expensive, especially when traveling with such a large number of cats. Costs will include vet visits, airline tickets, and travel crates for your cats, among other expenses. However, many owners feel that keeping their pet family intact is well worth the price of pet travel.

Ultimately, it is up to you and your vet to decide whether or not is is in your cats' best interests to move to London. It may be helpful to take a look at the pet import requirements for the UK. This will give you an idea of what pet travel to England will involve. Additionally, if you would like a free price estimate for your move, fill out our quote form to be in contact with a pet move specialist. And if you have any more questions, feel free to contact us. Thanks for your questions and good luck with everything!