Things To Know Before Traveling Your Feline By Air
Airlines and flight attendants are prepared to care for the traveler’s needs, including yours and your feline fur baby. With this, we can say one end of the flying problem is fixed. However, securing the other end requires your cooperation. You must consider your kitty cat’s physical and emotional needs while traveling and train them ahead, so your fluffy pet doesn’t find flying in cargo intimidating.
Many pet sedatives and tranquilizers are promoted in the market as easy options to keep a fur baby calm through the journey, but ask yourself, are they safe? And are they necessary? We hope you and your furball have a splendid pet vacation, so we ask you to turn to your vet for pet-safe suggestions. Seek their advice instead of purchasing readily available drugs and experimenting on your furry friend needlessly.
Apart from your vet, chat with your pet insurance provider to know the validity of your cat insurance just in case some health trouble catches up with your pet when flying to distant places. Even if you have the best pet insurance, you may have to consider purchasing travel insurance to efficiently deal with risks associated with long-distance travel. So, plan for the fun and possible liabilities that may arise during your flying expedition.
Meanwhile, read this article to learn how to keep your kitty cat calm through the flight journey.
1. Buy a comfy cat carrier
Yes, there are carrier specifications, which can differ from airline to airline. So, call them up weeks before your trip, just when you want to have a checklist ready and start shopping for needed human and pet items. Also, we have a hack for you. Never pick the same pet carrier you use to take your munchkin regularly to the vet. Let your fluffy baby have an exclusive pet carrier saved for traveling so they know what is coming up when you take it out of the pet cupboard. So, you will have a less stressed cat looking forward to a flying adventure.
2. Practice sessions with carrier
With pets, it can be all about training. So, help your kitty pal get used to spending plenty of time in what will be the travel carrier or crate for long weeks before the trip. First, warm up the carrier by spreading a plush blanket on the carrier floor; after that, add little toys, favorite treats, and other things the kitty loves so they will eventually learn to love the carrier too.
3. Consider putting your cat in the cargo area
Most airlines have a dedicated space for your pets, either in the cabin or cargo. Some owners may be comfortable with their pets in the cabin, but this might get a little uncomfortable with other travelers. It’s advised to avoid traveling with your cats in the cabin during long flight durations. Flights have a dedicated area for pets to be safe in the cargo, so you shouldn’t panic about being away from your cat, as it is for the benefit of your furry friend. The cargo can fit a cat’s bed and a litterbox. This comfort shouldn’t be overlooked during long journeys.
4. Use pheromone sprays
But only after seeking your vet’s approval. While natural pheromones are present on your kitty’s little paws, you can use synthetic pheromone sprays to reduce travel anxiety. You may need to spray a puff inside your fur baby’s crate to improve their mood when they take shelter.
5. Plan for security checks
You can purchase a well-fitting harness and leash for your fur ball. With this outfit, your munchkin is less likely to escape even when they panic during security checks. Its lovely crate is the safest place your fur baby can think of in a new place like an airport amidst unfamiliar faces.
The tips above may help your kitty control their travel anxiety. Also, be understanding if your cat doesn’t seem to calm down after all the efforts. If you have someone trustworthy who could look at your cat as you do, leave them there for a few days. If this is also not working, there are many cat care services online that you can opt for. Your cat might miss you when you are away. But at least they will be saved from all the stress and scare when put through travel.
As a cat parent, you must reassure your feline repeatedly that they are in safe hands and there is little to worry about. You never know when mental or emotional trauma can transform into a physical health issue. Cat insurance can cover your annual pet’s medical expenses for covered health conditions. Pet insurance helps your cat fight any serious medical condition in future if there is any.