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

Are you planning to fly with your cat on United Airlines? If you’re a cat owner, you know how important it is to take care of your furry friend, even when you’re traveling. That’s why I’ve created this comprehensive guide about United Airlines cat travel to help you navigate United Airlines’ cat travel policies and procedures. From required documentation and carrier guidelines to travel costs and carry-on vs. cargo options, this guide covers everything you need to know to ensure a safe and stress-free journey for your feline companion.

Whether you’re moving across the country or just taking a vacation, you want to make sure that your cat is safe and comfortable during the journey. That’s where United Airlines comes in. As one of the largest airlines in the world, United Airlines offers a range of pet travel options to make your journey with your feline friend as smooth as possible. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about flying with cats on United Airlines.

United Airlines Cat Travel Policies

United Airlines has specific policies and procedures in place for travelers who wish to bring their cats on board. It’s important to review these guidelines before booking a flight to ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.

Getting Ready

If you’re planning on traveling with your pet on United Airlines, it’s important to know that in-cabin travel is only allowed for cats and dogs when there is space available. Regardless of the type of pet you have, there are some things you need to know to ensure a smooth travel experience.

Types of animals allowed on United Airlines

United Airlines permits cats, dogs, rabbits, and household birds to travel in the cabin on most flights within the United States. However, some restrictions apply based on the size and breed of the animal. In addition, United Airlines allows other pets to travel as cargo, including cats, dogs, guinea pigs, hamsters, and rabbits.

Required documentation and fees

Before traveling with your cat on United Airlines, it’s important to ensure that you have all the necessary documentation and fees in place. This includes a certificate of health from a licensed veterinarian, as well as proof of current vaccinations. Fees vary depending on the type of animal and the length of the flight, so be sure to check United Airlines’ Pet Travel page for the most up-to-date pricing information.

Cat age restrictions

If you’re planning to travel with your furry friends, it’s important to know the age requirements for flying. United Airlines allows pets to fly, but there are certain guidelines that must be followed, particularly with regards to the age of your pets.

For domestic flights, United Airlines requires puppies and kittens to be at least 2 months old before they can be allowed to travel. This policy is put in place to ensure the safety and well-being of the animal during transit. At this age, the pet should have had sufficient time to develop and build up their immune system, which is crucial for their survival in a new environment.

However, for international flights, the age requirements are stricter. Puppies and kittens must be at least 4 months old in order to comply with vaccination requirements. This is to protect both the pet and other animals from the spread of diseases across borders. United Airlines follows international regulations to ensure that pets are safe and healthy throughout the journey.

It’s important to note that age is not the only factor that United Airlines considers when it comes to pets traveling. They also have certain requirements for pet carriers and health certificates, so make sure to check with the airline before booking your pet’s ticket. With proper preparation and adherence to guidelines, you and your furry friends can enjoy a safe and comfortable journey with United Airlines.

Cat breed restrictions

Cat breed restrictions can vary depending on the airline. When it comes to carry-on pets in cabin, there are generally no breed restrictions. However, for pets traveling in cargo, certain breeds may not be accepted by airlines due to their respiratory issues.

United Airlines and other airline companies such as American Airlines no longer accept reservations for the following brachycephalic (or short- or snub-nosed) cats: Burmese, Exotic Shorthair, Himalayan, and Persian for cargo travel. This is because these breeds are more susceptible to respiratory issues, especially in high-stress situations like air travel.

As a cat owner, it’s important to research the airline’s pet policy before booking your flight. If you own one of these cat breeds, it may be better to seek alternative transportation or discuss with your veterinarian on alternative travel options. It’s essential to prioritize your cat’s safety and well-being when traveling, and choosing the right airline can play a significant role in ensuring a comfortable and safe journey for your furry friend.

Adding a Cat to Your United Airlines Flight

To book a ticket for your cat, simply select “Travel with a pet” as a traveler during the booking process on united.com. Alternatively, you can add a pet to an existing trip by going to “My Trips.” You cannot add a pet to your trip on the United Airlines app. Note that there is a $125 fee each way for traveling with your pet, as well as a $125 fee for each layover of more than four hours for flights within the U.S. and more than 24 hours internationally. You cannot use travel credits to pay this fee.

Traveler Pro Tips

To ensure a comfortable and stress-free travel experience for you and your cat, make sure to pack a pet-friendly travel kit with all the essentials, including a collapsible water bowl, leash, treats, and plastic bags. Don’t forget to feed your cat a light meal a few hours before the flight and make sure they have access to water. Consider investing in a calming aid or medication for your cat if they tend to get anxious during travel.

Flying with Cats on United Airlines

Now that you know the requirements and restrictions for flying with your cat on United Airlines, let’s dive into the specific guidelines and recommendations for flying with cats on United Airlines.

UA Carrier size and weight restrictions

The carrier is an essential requirement when traveling with your cat. United Airlines allows pets to travel in either a hard-sided or soft-sided carrier, and it must fit under the seat in front of you. For cats, there can only be one pet per carrier, and they must be able to stand up and turn around while inside. It’s also important to note that the only animals allowed on planes without a pet carrier are service animals.

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

• Hard-Sided Carrier: The maximum dimensions are 12 inches high, 17.5 inches long, and 7.5 inches wide.
• Soft-Sided Carrier: The maximum dimensions are 11 inches high, 18 inches long, and 11 inches wide.

In addition, the combined weight of the carrier and cat cannot exceed 16 pounds.

If you’re planning to travel on a United Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 9 with your pet, it’s important to note that your pet carrier can be no more than 10 inches tall. This is due to the limited space available for under-seat storage on this type of plane.

Additionally, if you’re traveling with a pet in United Airlines Economy on a Boeing 757-200, you’ll need to be seated in a window seat to ensure that your carrier fits comfortably under the seat in front of you.

It’s always a good idea to check the specific pet policies for the type of plane you’ll be flying on to ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience for both you and your furry companion.

Proper preparation for the flight

Proper preparation is key to ensuring a successful trip with your cat. This includes introducing your cat to their carrier before the trip, making sure they are comfortable with it and have enough space to move around. You should also feed and water your cat a few hours before the flight and take them for a bathroom break to avoid accidents during the flight.

Gathering paperwork is crucial before flying with your cat. Some countries don’t allow pets to travel at all, while others have strict rules for rabies vaccines. Before you head to the airport, make sure you have all the necessary paperwork and proof of vaccination in order for your cat.

You’ll also need to book a ticket for your cat during the booking process on united.com or by calling United Airlines reservations.

Where can I sit with my pet on the plane?

Where you can sit with your pet depends on the type of plane you’re on. Keep in mind that while you can only bring one pet with you, each plane limits the total number of pets allowed on the same flight.

United Airlines Cat Travel Costs

As a cat owner, traveling with your furry friend can be a great experience, but it’s important to know about the costs associated with pet travel. If you’re planning to fly with your cat on United Airlines, there are a few fees to keep in mind.

In-Cabin Pet Travel Fees

If you want to bring your cat with you in the cabin, United Airlines charges a $125 fee each way for domestic flights and $200 for international flights. Your cat must remain in a carrier that fits under the seat in front of you, and the carrier counts as your one allowed carry-on item.

Cargo Pet Travel Fees

Unfortunately, United Airlines does not currently allow pets to fly in cargo, except in limited circumstances where exceptions are made for the U.S. military or foreign service. Active duty U.S. military personnel traveling on permanent change of station orders and Foreign Service Personnel traveling on current reassignment may fly their pet cats and dogs between Honolulu and Guam.

It’s important to note that prior to 2018, United Airlines operated its PetSafe program, which allowed customers to bring their pets as cargo on eligible flights. However, since 2018, the program has been completely suspended and to date, United Airlines has not resumed its operations. Therefore, if you plan to travel with your cat, you should make arrangements for either in-cabin or checked baggage pet travel.

Additional Fees

In addition to the basic pet travel fees, United Airlines charges an extra $125 fee for each layover of more than four hours for domestic flights and more than 24 hours for international flights. Keep in mind that you cannot use travel credits to pay for these fees, so make sure to budget accordingly.

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

Traveling with your cat on United Airlines requires careful consideration, as there are limited options available. Unlike other airlines, United Airlines does not currently allow pets to fly in cargo except for specific circumstances such as Active duty U.S. military traveling on permanent change of station orders and Foreign Service Personnel traveling on current reassignment. However, if your cat is small enough to fit in an airline-approved carrier that can fit under the seat in front of you, you may choose to bring your cat on board as a carry-on.

United Airlines Cat Carry-On

United Airlines allows one pet carrier per passenger and has specific requirements for the size and type of carrier that can be used as a carry-on. It’s important to review these requirements on the United Airlines website and plan accordingly. Keep in mind that if your cat is too large or not comfortable traveling in a carrier for an extended period of time, shipping your cat as cargo may not be an option on United Airlines.

United Airlines Cat Cargo

In 2018, United Airlines has suspended its program for pets traveling in cargo, called PetSafe, after a dog died in an overhead bin. This suspension does not affect pets traveling in the main cabin. United has also tightened its rules for bringing support animals on planes.

If you have any questions or concerns about traveling with your pet as cargo on United Airlines, you can contact their Customer Service team at 1-800-575-3335. They can provide you with more information on booking procedures, crate requirements, and fees.

In addition to contacting their team, you can also visit United Airlines’ website for more information on pet travel policies and procedures.

Choosing between carry-on and cargo travel options can depend on various factors such as your cat’s temperament, size, and personal preferences. Ultimately, the safety and comfort of your pet during travel is paramount. Be sure to review all of the guidelines and requirements on the United Airlines website and consult with your veterinarian to determine the best course of action for traveling with your cat on United Airlines.

United Airlines Cat Travel: International Flights

Traveling with a cat on international flights requires additional preparation and documentation. In addition to the required health certificate and vaccinations, you may need to obtain additional permits and comply with quarantine requirements. Be sure to review United Airlines’ policies for traveling with pets on international flights before booking your trip.

Where can you fly with your cat?

United and United Express allow passengers to bring their pets on any flight as long as the destination permits it. However, for international travel, passengers need to call 1-800-864-8331 to add their pet to the reservation. If the itinerary includes multiple airlines, including UA partners, it’s important to check each airline’s pet policy beforehand. It’s worth noting that certain states and countries have restrictions in place regarding pets on flights, and passengers should be aware that traveling to, from, or even through these locations may not be possible with their furry friends.

Restricted Cat Travel Destinations

The following states and countries prohibit pets from being transported through or to their locations, even as a connecting flight:

• Australia
• Barbados
• Cuba
• Guam *
• French Polynesia (Tahiti)
• Hawaii
• Hong Kong
• Iceland
• Ireland
• Jamaica
• Marshall Islands
• Micronesia, Federated States of
• New Zealand
• Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan)
• Norway
• Palau
• Panama
• Philippines
• South Africa
• Sweden
• Tahiti
• Trinidad and Tobago
• United Arab Emirates (Dubai)
• United Kingdom

Conclusion

Traveling with your cat on United Airlines can be a fun and rewarding experience for both you and your furry friend, but it’s important to prepare properly and understand the airline’s pet policies and procedures. Remember to choose the right carrier for your cat, gather all necessary paperwork, and pack a pet-friendly travel kit for your trip.

If you’re unsure about any aspect of traveling with your cat on United Airlines, don’t hesitate to contact their customer service team for more information and assistance. And always remember to prioritize your cat’s safety and comfort throughout the entire travel process.

We hope this comprehensive guide to United Airlines cat travel has been helpful for you and your feline friend. Have a safe and enjoyable trip!

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

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