American Airlines Cat Travel: Your Comprehensive Guide to Flying with Feline Friends!

Are you planning to travel with your beloved feline friend and wondering how to do so with American Airlines? Look no further! This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about American Airlines cat travel.

American Airlines Pet Policy: What You Need to Know

First and foremost, before booking your flight, you should familiarize yourself with American Airlines’ pet policy. American Airlines allows cats and dogs to travel in either the cabin or cargo hold of their flights.

If you’re planning to bring your cat into the cabin, keep in mind that there are certain restrictions to consider. Your feline friend must be able to fit comfortably in a carrier that can be stowed under the seat in front of you. The carrier dimensions must not exceed 19 inches long x 13 inches wide x 9 inches high (48 cm x 33 cm x 22 cm), and it must be leak-proof and well-ventilated.

It’s also important to note that only one pet per passenger is allowed, and there are limits to the number of pets allowed in each cabin. Therefore, it’s essential to book your flight early to ensure that space is available for your furry friend.

If you prefer to travel with your cat in the cargo hold, American Airlines also allows this option. However, please note that there are additional requirements to meet, and not all flights allow pets in the cargo hold. To make the necessary arrangements and ensure that your cat meets all the necessary requirements, you must contact American Airlines Cargo at least 48 hours in advance.

In the next section, we’ll dive deeper into the requirements for traveling with your cat on American Airlines, including necessary documentation and fees. Don’t miss it!

American Airlines Cat Travel Policies

When it comes to traveling with cats, each airline has its own set of rules and regulations to ensure the safety and comfort of both the animals and passengers. American Airlines is no exception, and it’s important to be aware of their pet travel policies before booking a flight with your furry friend.

Types of animals allowed on American Airlines

American Airlines allows cats and dogs to travel in the cabin, as well as other types of animals in the cargo hold. However, it’s important to note that some breeds and species may not be allowed to fly due to health or safety concerns. For example, American Airlines does not allow brachycephalic (short-nosed) pets to travel in the cargo hold due to their increased risk of respiratory problems.

Required Documentation and Fees

Before traveling with a pet on American Airlines, there are several documents and fees that you’ll need to take care of. The airline requires a health certificate from a veterinarian, which must be dated within 10 days of the flight. Additionally, a pet fee will be charged for each direction of travel, and the cost will vary depending on the destination and the size of the pet.

Cat age restrictions

When planning a trip with your feline friend, it’s important to know the age restrictions for air travel. American Airlines requires cats to be at least 8 weeks old when traveling within the United States and Puerto Rico. This age restriction is in place to ensure the safety and comfort of the cat during the flight.

Kittens under 8 weeks old may not have fully developed immune systems, making them more susceptible to illness and stress. In addition, they may not be fully weaned and may require special care during the flight. By requiring cats to be at least 8 weeks old, American Airlines is ensuring that the cat is able to handle the rigors of air travel and is more likely to arrive at the destination healthy and happy. It’s important to note that some states and countries may have additional age restrictions for cats entering or leaving, so it’s always a good idea to check with your veterinarian and the airline before booking a trip.

Cat breed restrictions

When it comes to flying with your furry feline friend, it’s important to be aware of any breed restrictions that airlines may have in place. American Airlines, for instance, does not allow certain breeds of cats to travel in the cargo hold due to their short-nosed or brachycephalic features, which can make it difficult for them to breathe in the unique environment of an airplane. The affected breeds include Burmese, Exotic Shorthair, Himalayan, and Persian cats.

It’s worth noting, however, that these restrictions only apply to cats traveling in the cargo hold. If you’re planning on bringing your cat with you in the cabin, there are no specific breed restrictions in place. That being said, it’s always a good idea to check with the airline ahead of time to ensure that you have all the necessary documentation and that your furry friend meets all the necessary requirements for travel. By doing so, you can ensure that your trip with your feline companion goes as smoothly as possible, no matter what breed they may be.

AA Cargo Animals Page

For more information on American Airlines’ pet travel policies and procedures, including information on other types of animals allowed to travel and how to properly prepare for the flight, check out the AA Cargo Animals page. It’s important to review these policies carefully before booking a flight with your pet to ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.

In summary, American Airlines has specific policies and procedures in place to ensure the safety and comfort of pets traveling on their flights. By familiarizing yourself with these policies and properly preparing your pet for the journey, you can help ensure a successful and enjoyable travel experience for both you and your furry friend.

Flying with Cats on American Airlines

Flying with your cat on American Airlines requires careful planning and preparation to ensure the comfort and safety of your feline friend. In this section, we’ll cover the specific guidelines and requirements for flying with cats on American Airlines.

AA Carrier size and weight restrictions

When flying with a cat on American Airlines, you must bring a carrier that meets the airline’s size and weight restrictions. According to the American Airlines Cargo Animals FAQ page, the carrier must fit under the seat in front of you and be no larger than 19 inches long, 13 inches wide, and 9 inches tall. The carrier must also have proper ventilation, be leak-proof, and secure.

American Airlines has specific size and weight restrictions for pet carriers.

• Hard-Sided Carrier:
  The maximum dimensions for mainline flights on American Airlines are 9 inches high (22 cm), 19 inches long (48 cm), and 13 inches wide (33 cm).
  The maximum dimensions for regional flights on American Eagle are 8 inches high (20 cm), 16 inches long (40 cm), and 12 inches wide (30 cm).
• Soft-Sided Carrier: The maximum dimensions are 11 inches high (28 cm), 18 inches long (46 cm), and 11 inches wide (28 cm).

When traveling with your pet on American Airlines, keep in mind that the total weight of your pet and their carrier cannot exceed 20 lbs. (9.07 kgs). You are allowed to bring one personal item along with your pet carrier, but a carry-on bag is not permitted in addition to these two items. Your pet’s kennel will replace your carry-on bag, so plan accordingly.

Preparing for the Flight

It’s important to prepare your cat for the flight to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience. Start by getting your cat used to the carrier by leaving it open in a common area and placing treats or toys inside. Gradually increase the amount of time your cat spends in the carrier and take short car rides to help them get used to the motion of traveling.

On the day of the flight, feed your cat a light meal several hours before departure and provide them with water. It’s also a good idea to place a familiar blanket or piece of clothing inside the carrier to make your cat feel more comfortable.

Required Documentation

Before you can fly with your cat on American Airlines, you must provide the necessary documentation. This includes a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian, stating that your cat is healthy, up-to-date on vaccinations, and free from communicable diseases. The health certificate must be issued no more than 10 days before the date of travel.

Check-In and Boarding

When you arrive at the airport, check in at the American Airlines counter and inform the staff that you’re traveling with a cat. You’ll need to pay the pet fee, which varies depending on the route and whether you’re traveling in the cabin or cargo. After check-in, proceed to security and then to your departure gate. Board the plane as soon as possible to give your cat plenty of time to settle into their carrier before takeoff.

In-Flight Tips

During the flight, it’s important to ensure that your cat is comfortable and safe. Keep the carrier under the seat in front of you and avoid taking your cat out during the flight. If your cat shows signs of distress, such as excessive meowing or agitation, try to soothe them with a calm voice and gentle touch.

If your cat needs to use the litter box during the flight, place a small, disposable litter box inside the carrier. Remember to clean up any messes promptly to ensure the comfort of other passengers.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a comfortable and safe travel experience for your cat on American Airlines.

Where can I sit with my pet on the plane?

If you’re planning on flying with your furry friend on an American Airlines flight, it’s important to know the rules and restrictions regarding pet travel. As a pet owner myself, I know how important it is to ensure your pet is comfortable and safe during air travel. When flying in First or Business on an A321T, you’ll be pleased to know that your pet can still join you onboard. However, there are a few guidelines to follow.

First and foremost, your pet must stay in their kennel during the flight. The kennel must be placed in a dedicated animal-friendly compartment at the front of the plane during taxi, takeoff, landing, and turbulence. Additionally, the combined weight of your pet and carrier cannot exceed 20 lbs. If you’re planning on bringing your pet as a carry-on, it’s important to note that due to the lack of under-seat storage space, carry-on pets are not permitted in First or Business on certain Boeing aircraft, including the 777-200, 777-300, 787-8, and 787-9.

Despite these restrictions, American Airlines does allow carry-on pets in other aircraft and sections of the plane. However, there are also limitations on the number of kennels that can be accepted on each flight. On American flights, excluding service animals, only seven kennels can be accepted, while on American Eagle flights, only five kennels are allowed, with one in First. It’s always a good idea to check with the airline ahead of time to ensure your pet can accompany you on your flight and that all necessary arrangements have been made.

Adding a Cat to Your American Airlines Flight

If you’re planning to fly with your cat on American Airlines, adding your furry friend to the flight is a simple process. Here are the step-by-step instructions:

1. First, make sure your cat meets all the requirements for pet travel on American Airlines. Check the airline’s pet travel policies and guidelines to ensure your cat is eligible for travel and that you have all the necessary documentation, including a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel and proof of rabies vaccination.
2. When booking your flight, let American Airlines know that you’ll be traveling with a cat. You can do this online or by calling the airline’s reservations line. It’s important to make your reservation as early as possible, as there are limits to the number of pets allowed on each flight.
3. Pay the pet fee when you book your flight. The fee for traveling with a cat in the cabin is $125 each way, while the fee for traveling with a cat as checked baggage or cargo varies depending on the weight and size of your cat and carrier. Be sure to check the airline’s website for the most up-to-date pet fees.
4. Choose a carrier that meets American Airlines’ size and weight requirements for pet travel. The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you and your cat must be able to stand up and turn around comfortably inside. The maximum dimensions for a carrier are 19 inches long, 13 inches wide, and 9 inches tall.
5. Prepare your cat and carrier for the flight by familiarizing your cat with the carrier and making sure they’re comfortable in it. Make sure the carrier is well-ventilated and secure. You can also consider placing a familiar blanket or toy inside the carrier to help calm your cat during the flight.
6. Arrive at the airport early to allow plenty of time to check in your cat and go through security. You’ll need to present all necessary documentation, including your cat’s health certificate, and have your cat and carrier inspected by airline personnel.
7. Board the plane with your cat and settle them in the carrier under the seat in front of you (if you’re traveling with your cat in the cabin). If your cat is traveling as cargo, you’ll need to drop them off at the designated cargo location.

By following these simple steps, you can add your cat to your American Airlines flight and travel with ease.

Remember to always check the airline’s policies and guidelines before traveling with your pet and make sure you have all necessary documentation to avoid any complications or delays during your trip.

American Airlines Cat Travel Costs

When it comes to flying with a cat on American Airlines, it’s important to be aware of the associated costs. American Airlines charges a fee for pet travel, and the cost varies depending on the type of travel (in-cabin or cargo) and the destination.

In-Cabin Pet Travel Fees

If you plan to bring your cat with you in the cabin, you will need to pay a fee of $125 per carrier each way. This fee applies to flights within and between the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central and South America.

Cargo Pet Travel Fees

If your cat is traveling as cargo, the fees will depend on the weight and size of the carrier, as well as the destination. For domestic flights within the United States, the fees for cargo pet travel range from $200 to $750 per kennel depending on the size and destination. For international flights, fees vary widely, and it’s important to contact American Airlines Cargo for a specific quote.

It’s worth noting that if you’re traveling with multiple pets in the same carrier, you will only be charged one fee. Additionally, service animals traveling with their owners are exempt from pet travel fees.

Additional Fees

In addition to the pet travel fee, American Airlines also charges a $125 pet carry-on fee for passengers traveling with a pet in-cabin. This fee is in addition to the standard carry-on baggage fee and applies to flights within and between the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central and South America.

It’s also important to note that there may be additional fees for transporting your cat to and from the airport, as well as fees for overnight kenneling if your flight is delayed or cancelled.

Traveling with a cat on American Airlines can be a smooth and stress-free experience as long as you’re aware of the airline’s pet travel policies and costs. By following the guidelines outlined in this post and properly preparing your cat for the flight, you can ensure that your furry friend arrives safely and comfortably at your destination. Don’t forget to factor in the associated fees when planning your trip, and consider the pros and cons of in-cabin versus cargo travel depending on your cat’s size and temperament. Safe travels with your feline friend!

AA Carry-On vs. Cargo: Which is Best for Your Cat?

When it comes to traveling with your cat on American Airlines, you have two options: carry-on or cargo. The decision of which option to choose can depend on a variety of factors, including the size and temperament of your cat, as well as your personal preferences and travel plans.

American Airlines Cat Carry-On

If your cat is small enough to fit comfortably in an airline-approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you, you may choose to bring your cat on board as a carry-on. This can be a great option for cats who are used to traveling in a carrier and are comfortable being in close proximity to you during the flight.

American Airlines allows one pet carrier per passenger, and there are specific requirements for the size and type of carrier that can be used as a carry-on. Be sure to review these requirements on the American Airlines website and plan accordingly.

American Airlines Cat Cargo

For larger cats or cats who may not be comfortable traveling in a carrier for an extended period of time, shipping your cat as cargo may be a better option. American Airlines offers a specialized program for shipping animals as cargo, with specific requirements and guidelines for the safety and comfort of your pet during the journey. This can be a more complex process than traveling with your cat as a carry-on, so it’s important to review all of the guidelines and requirements on the American Airlines website and plan accordingly.

There are pros and cons to both options, so it’s important to carefully consider which choice is best for you and your cat. Ultimately, the most important thing is to ensure the safety and comfort of your pet during the journey.

American Airlines Cat Travel: International Flights

If you’re planning on traveling internationally with your cat on American Airlines, there are some important things to keep in mind. Some destinations have restrictions on which animals are allowed to enter, and what requirements they need to meet.

Where Can You Fly With Your Cat?

If you’re planning to fly with your cat, it’s important to know which destinations allow pet travel. American Airlines allows pets on most flights up to 12 hours or flights to/from select locations, including:

• Within the 48 contiguous United States
• Between the U.S. and Canada*
• Alaska
• Mexico*
• Puerto Rico
• St. Croix
• St. Thomas

*Please note that all pets traveling to Mexico and Canada must meet government regulations on vaccinations, and there may be additional restrictions for specific destinations.

Restricted Cat Travel Destinations

Different countries have varying requirements and restrictions on traveling with cats. Here are some of the restrictions that American Airlines has for cat travel to different parts of the world:

• Australia: Only assistance and service dogs are allowed, and they must be accredited by an Australian government agency.
• Canada: Commercial dogs from high-risk countries cannot enter Canada.
• Caribbean: Carry-on pets are not allowed when traveling to Jamaica. In Trinidad and Tobago, pets cannot arrive on flights before 8 a.m. or after 4 p.m.
• Hawaii: Carry-on pets are not allowed. Checked pets can travel to Hawaii via Honolulu and must follow Hawaii’s quarantine rules.
• Mexico: All pets traveling to Mexico must meet government vaccination regulations.
• South America: Carry-on pets are not allowed when traveling to Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Uruguay.
• Transatlantic: Carry-on pets are not allowed. When traveling to the European Union with a checked pet, you must complete all entry requirements, and your pet must have a tattoo or microchip that matches their vaccination card.
• Transpacific: Carry-on pets are not allowed. Checked pets are allowed on flights from Japan to Los Angeles or Dallas-Fort Worth, but not as checked bags to Japan.

Conclusion

After reading this article, you should have a better understanding of the process of traveling with your cat on American Airlines. Remember these key takeaways:

• American Airlines allows cats to travel both as carry-on and as cargo.
• Make sure to review American Airlines’ pet travel policies before booking your flight.
• Prepare your cat’s carrier according to American Airlines’ guidelines.
• There are fees associated with traveling with a cat on American Airlines, so be sure to budget accordingly.
• Consider the pros and cons of carrying your cat on board as a carry-on versus shipping them as cargo.

After considering these guidelines, flying with your cat on American Airlines can be an enjoyable and effortless experience. Prioritize your cat’s well-being and follow the necessary steps before traveling. Bon voyage with your feline companion!

Don’t forget to check out American Airlines’ Pet Travel page for additional information and resources on pet travel. And if you have any further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to American Airlines’ customer service.

Thank you for reading and safe travels!

FAQ

If you liked this blog post check out our other specific airline cat travel articles:

• United Airlines Cat Travel: Your Comprehensive Guide to Flying with Feline Friends!