Is a travel certificate required to fly with my cat?
Flying with a cat can be nerve-racking. Follow these steps to properly prepare and ease your anxiety on travel day!
Flying can be stressful enough, but add a beloved cat to the equation and it can turn into a nightmare! While there's plenty of advice on flying with dogs, what about our feline friends? Are there specific considerations for cat owners that dog owners might not think of? Let's delve into the unique challenges of flying with cats and discover the essential steps to make the experience less stressful for both you and your furry companion.
CERTIFICATE OF VETERINARY INSPECTION
Flying with your cat means you'll need a travel certificate, officially called a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) or "health certificate." These documents are easy to obtain from your veterinarian and are required by most airlines. The certificate must be issued within 10 days of your flight and confirms your cat is up-to-date on vaccinations, particularly rabies, and is in good health with no signs of illness. This simple document is essential for ensuring the safety of your cat and other travelers throughout your journey.
Does every airline require that I have a CVI?
At a high-level and very broadly said, the answer is yes. While there are general guidelines, it's crucial to contact your specific airline before booking your flight to confirm their pet policies. Airlines have varying regulations on everything from permitted animals (some may allow ferrets as emotional support animals, while others don't) to carrier size and type, required documentation, and booking procedures. Remember, even if your cat travels with you in the cabin (highly recommended), expect to pay a fee, sometimes exceeding $100. If your cat is too large for the cabin and must travel in the cargo hold, discuss the risks with your veterinarian and inquire about an Acclimation Certificate, which some airlines now require. Additionally, some airlines have breed restrictions for cats traveling in the cargo hold, so ensure you check well in advance and be specific about your cat's breed.
Here are some useful links for many of the major airlines' pet policies: American Airlines Delta Airlines Frontier Airlines Spirit Airlines Alaska Airlines JetBlue Southwest
Do I still need one if we aren’t flying to our destination?
While CVIs are primarily associated with air travel, some states require them for animals entering from out-of-state, even if traveling by car or train. Airlines require CVIs for health and sanitation reasons and to comply with regulations in all the states they serve.
Remember, CVIs are specifically for domestic travel within the U.S. For international flights, each country has unique requirements regarding paperwork, quarantine, and registration. For example, international travel may necessitate an international health certificate, and certain destinations, like the UK, may require microchipping. Traveling to Hawaii with a pet presents additional complexities.
Before any trip, consult your veterinarian for guidance on preparation. They may recommend printing medical records, gathering medications, and acclimating your cat to their carrier well in advance. Additionally, it's always wise to check in early with your airline and arrive at the airport with ample time to spare.