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If you’re a cat owner and planning to fly with American Airlines, you may be wondering if you can bring your furry friend along. The good news is that American Airlines does allow cats on board their flights, but there are some important guidelines and restrictions you need to know before booking your ticket.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about flying with your cat on American Airlines, from the types of carriers allowed to the fees and documentation required. So, if you’re thinking of taking your feline friend with you on your next trip, keep reading to find out what you need to do to make it happen.
Contents
- Can I Fly With My Cat on American Airlines?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the requirements for flying with a cat on American Airlines?
- How much does it cost to fly with a cat on American Airlines?
- What should I do to prepare my cat for flying on American Airlines?
- Can my cat travel with me in the cabin on American Airlines?
- What if my cat gets sick or injured during the flight on American Airlines?
- How To Print A Boarding Pass For United Airlines?
- Are American Airline Tickets Cheaper At The Airport?
- How To Sign Up For American Airlines Frequent Flyer?
Can I Fly With My Cat on American Airlines?
1. American Airlines Pet Policy
American Airlines allows cats to travel with their owners as carry-on or checked baggage, depending on the size of the cat and the carrier. The maximum weight limit for the cat and carrier combined is 20 pounds. The airline also allows emotional support animals and service animals to travel with their owners in the cabin free of charge, but proper documentation is required.
If you plan to bring your cat as carry-on, the carrier must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. If you are bringing your cat as checked baggage, it must be in a carrier that meets the airline’s guidelines for size and ventilation.
2. Fees for Traveling With Your Cat
American Airlines charges a pet fee of $125 each way for carry-on pets and checked pets traveling within the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. For international flights, the fee is $200 each way. The pet fee is non-refundable and is in addition to any other baggage fees that may apply.
If you are traveling with an emotional support animal or a service animal, there is no fee. However, you must provide proper documentation and notify the airline in advance.
3. Booking Your Cat’s Flight
If you plan to bring your cat on an American Airlines flight, you must notify the airline in advance. You can do this by calling American Airlines reservations or by adding your pet to your booking online. It’s important to book your cat’s flight early, as there are a limited number of pets allowed on each flight.
When you arrive at the airport, you must check in at the ticket counter and provide all necessary documentation for your cat. The airline will provide you with a tag to attach to your cat’s carrier, indicating that it is approved for travel.
4. Preparing Your Cat for the Flight
If you plan to bring your cat on a flight, it’s important to prepare them for the experience. Make sure your cat is comfortable in their carrier and has plenty of food and water. You may also want to consider giving your cat a mild sedative to help them relax during the flight.
Before you leave for the airport, take your cat for a walk or play with them to help them burn off some energy. This will make it easier for them to relax during the flight.
5. Benefits of Flying With Your Cat
Bringing your cat on a flight can be a great way to travel with your furry friend. It allows you to keep your cat close to you and avoid the stress of leaving them behind. It can also be a great way to introduce your cat to new experiences and help them become more comfortable with travel.
In addition, American Airlines offers a comfortable and safe environment for pets traveling on their planes. They provide climate-controlled areas for pets traveling as cargo and have strict guidelines in place to ensure the safety of all animals on board.
6. Tips for Flying With Your Cat
When traveling with your cat, it’s important to be prepared and take some simple precautions to ensure their safety and well-being. Here are a few tips to help you and your cat have a stress-free flight:
– Make sure your cat has all necessary vaccinations and health certificates before traveling.
– Pack plenty of food, water, and any necessary medications.
– Choose a carrier that is comfortable and has plenty of ventilation.
– Take your cat for a walk or play with them before the flight to help them relax.
– Consider using a mild sedative to help your cat stay calm during the flight.
7. Flying With Your Cat vs. Leaving Them Behind
If you are considering bringing your cat on a flight, you may be wondering whether it’s worth the hassle. While it can be a bit more complicated than leaving your cat behind, there are several benefits to bringing them with you.
First and foremost, you’ll be able to keep your cat close to you and ensure their safety during the trip. You’ll also avoid the stress and worry of leaving your cat in a kennel or with a pet sitter. And if you’re traveling a long distance, bringing your cat along can be a great way to keep them comfortable and happy during the journey.
8. Conclusion
In conclusion, American Airlines allows cats to travel as carry-on or checked baggage, depending on the size of the cat and the carrier. The airline also allows emotional support animals and service animals to travel with their owners in the cabin free of charge, but proper documentation is required. If you plan to bring your cat on a flight, make sure to book early and prepare them for the experience.
With a little bit of preparation and some simple precautions, flying with your cat can be a stress-free and enjoyable experience. So why leave your furry friend behind when you can bring them along for the ride?
Frequently Asked Questions
Traveling with a pet can be stressful, especially if you’re not sure about airline policies. Here are some common questions and answers to help make your travel experience with your cat on American Airlines as smooth as possible.
What are the requirements for flying with a cat on American Airlines?
For domestic flights within the U.S., your cat must be at least 8 weeks old and have all necessary vaccinations. A health certificate from a veterinarian may also be required. Your cat must be able to fit in a carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. For international flights, additional requirements may apply.
You should also check with American Airlines for any specific policies or procedures related to flying with a cat, as they may vary depending on the destination and other factors.
How much does it cost to fly with a cat on American Airlines?
The cost of flying with a cat on American Airlines varies depending on the type of flight and other factors. For domestic flights within the U.S., the fee is typically $125 each way. For international flights, the fee may be higher. You should check with American Airlines for the most up-to-date pricing information.
Note that the fee is charged per carrier, not per cat. So if you’re traveling with multiple cats, you may need to pay additional fees for additional carriers.
What should I do to prepare my cat for flying on American Airlines?
Before you fly with your cat on American Airlines, it’s important to make sure they are comfortable with their carrier. You should also consider feeding your cat a light meal a few hours before the flight to help prevent motion sickness. It’s also a good idea to bring along some of your cat’s favorite toys or a blanket to help them feel more at home during the flight.
If your cat is particularly nervous or has a history of anxiety, you may want to talk to your veterinarian about possible calming options, such as medication or natural remedies.
Can my cat travel with me in the cabin on American Airlines?
Yes, cats are allowed to travel in the cabin on American Airlines. However, they must be able to fit in a carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. You must also follow all airline policies related to pet travel, including any restrictions on the number of pets allowed on a single flight.
If your cat is too large to fit in a carrier under the seat, they may need to travel in the cargo hold instead.
What if my cat gets sick or injured during the flight on American Airlines?
If your cat becomes sick or injured during the flight on American Airlines, notify a flight attendant as soon as possible. They may be able to provide basic first aid or help you access any necessary veterinary care upon arrival.
It’s also a good idea to carry a copy of your cat’s medical records with you in case of an emergency.
In conclusion, American Airlines permits cats to fly with their owners, but there are certain rules and regulations that must be followed. Firstly, it is important to book your flight early, as there are usually a limited number of pet carriers allowed on each flight. Secondly, you will need to ensure that your cat is up to date with all of their vaccinations and has a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian. Lastly, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the airline’s policies regarding cat carriers and in-cabin pet travel.
Overall, flying with your cat on American Airlines can be a stress-free and enjoyable experience for both you and your furry friend. With the right preparation and attention to detail, you can travel with peace of mind knowing that your cat is safe and secure throughout the journey. So, if you’re planning on taking your cat with you on your next trip, don’t hesitate to book your flight with American Airlines and enjoy the adventure together.
