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1. Check with the airline whether they have requirements for "acclimation." In the event that you are unable to secure a direct flight, the pet carrier may be left outside the plane for a period of time. To avoid liability on their part, many airlines require a letter from your veterinarian stating that the pet is acclimated to a minimum or maximum temperature (must be given in precise degree, e.g., 20°F) for a defined period of time.
2. Consult with the airline regarding baggage liability. In some cases, this can include your pet. If you are sending an economically valuable pet, you may need to consider additional liability insurance.
3. Have your cat examined by your veterinarian in advance of the trip. Travel by plane can pose a risk for cats with a pre-existing medical problem.
4. Be sure that you have written proof of current vaccinations and, where required, a health certificate. These cannot be obtained "after the fact." You must be able to present them on demand. Foreign countries usually require a special health certificate that may not be available from your veterinarian. These are usually obtained from the consulate’s office and may take several days to arrive.
5. You should also inquire about possible requirements to quarantine your cat should you be traveling to a foreign country.
6. Most airlines allow one pet in coach and one in first class, with some provisions. To find out whether there are limitations on the number of animals present in the cabin, you should advise the airline if you plan to travel with your cat in the cabin. Check on the cage dimensions and requirements so that there won’t be a problem stowing the carrier beneath the seat. (Some airlines require that the pet be able to stand in the carrier. A fabric collapsible carrier is suitable for this situation.)
7. Consider in advance all medications that you might need for your cat. These might include heartworm preventive (a new product for cats), flea preventive, and heart or kidney medications. Also, give thought to any special diets your cat may need and whether they can be obtained at your destination.
8. If there is any chance that your cat will be out of the carrier, give thought to an appropriate collar or harness and keep a leash with you. If possible, the collar should have a small pet identification tag. Order forms are available in most veterinary clinics.
9. Do not tranquilize your cat unless you have discussed this with your veterinarian. Cats do not tolerate some medicines well, and giving over-the-counter or prescription pharmaceuticals can be dangerous.
10. Make sure that the carrier has permanent identification, including your name, phone number, flight schedule, destination, and phone number at the point of destination.
11. Feed your cat before you leave home. Water should be available at all times, including inside the carrier.
12. The cage should provide sufficient room for the cat to stand up and turn around easily, but not so large that it can be tossed about inside during turbulence. Remember that special requirements may be in place if the carrier is to go on board.
13. The walls of the carrier should be strong enough to prevent the sides from being crushed. Also, the flooring of the cage should not allow urine to leak through the bottom. An absorptive under pad (designed for bedridden people with bladder control problems) can be placed in the bottom. See your pharmacist for these.The cage should have sufficient openings for good ventilation.The cage should have a water tray, which is accessible from the outside so that water can be added, if needed.
Pet stores, breeders, and kennels usually sell cages that meet these requirements. Some airlines also sell cages that they prefer to use. Check with the airline to see if they have other requirements.
Try to familiarize your cat with the travel cage before you leave for your trip. Let your cat play inside with the door both open and closed. This will help eliminate some of your cat's stress during the trip.