Flying with Two Cats on a Plane.

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Flying with two cats can be extremely daunting and stressful. Ask any cat traveler and they will tell you the challenges that are associated. It requires a lot of preparation and Acclimation to allow the cats to transition smoothly.

A Quick Visit to the Vet

Before you book your flights or even think of planning your travel, you want to make sure that both your cats are in good health and are able to travel. A quick visit to your local vet will do the job.

Once you arranged a consult you want to do a proper test and examination on both cats to make sure they are well and free from sicknesses and viruses. Airlines are really strict and the cats must be

Free from ticks and fleas

Healthy to travel.

Vet certified

Free from viruses and infections

Once both cats have passed the exam and are deemed healthy for travel the veterinarian will issue a health certificate for each feline. This certificate serves as proof that your cat is healthy enough to handle the stress of flying.

You are also required to pay the charges for the services at the vet. The fee is calculated on the level of service you require. Normally the fee ranges from $100 to $500 dollars per pet.

Choose a Good Cat-friendly Airline.

There are many pet-friendly airlines each with different rules and specifications. Normally there are a certain number of pets that are allowed per flight. It’s always best to book your flight in advance and make sure you specify the number of cats you are boarding.

You want to choose an airline that allows more than one pet and also it must be affordable. Below are 5 good examples of airlines that are cat friendly and affordable.

Jetblue Airlines – allows one cat per cage and it must be below 20 pounds. This airline only allows 4 pets on board so if you intend on travelling with them be sure to book your space in advance. They charge a one-way fee of $100 dollars per cat.

Southwest Airlines – you are allowed two cats per cage provided they are below 20 pounds combined weight. They charge a one-way fee of $95 dollars per cat. Only accepts 6 pets on board.

Alaska air Airlines – this airline only allows one cat per cage with a weight limit of 20 pounds they fee is $100 dollars per pet per flight. Allows 5 pets on board.

American Airlines – they allow two cats per cage with a weight limit of 20 pounds, they charge $125 dollars one-way fee per cat. Allows 7 pets per flight.

United Airlines – allow one cat per cage, weight under 20 pounds with a one-way fee of $125 dollars. Excepts 10 pets per flight.

When flying with your cats, you have an option to either allow them to travel in the cabin or in the compartment.

If you allow your cat to travel in the cabin you must know that your carrier must be the right size to fit as hand luggage . You cannot travel with two cats in two different kennels. If both cats are in one kennel, it may be allowed if all requirement are met. Please confirm with your airline before the flight.

Check if Airlines Allow Two Cats in One Carrier.

Depending on the Airline you choose the requirements may be different. Here is an overall policy that most airlines Use that is according to the Live Animal Regulations(LAR).

For Cats to travel in one carrier, the carrier must be big enough to fit both pets.

Both pets must weigh a total of 20 pounds and below.

Pets must be between 6 weeks and 6 months.

Both pets must be same type or compatible. You cannot put a dog with a cat.

Only two kittens or small sized cats are allowed in one carrier.

Airline Approved Carriers.

If both cats meet the requirements of traveling together in the same carrier, you will need to get an airline approved carrier that is strong enough to shelter two cats.

Here are 3 reccomend carriers that are approved and perfect for two cats.

1. Amazon Basics soft padded carrier.

2. Portable ONE FOR PETS 2-in-1 double pet shelter

3. Sherpa deluxe cat carrier

Remember to get the carriers in advance so you have time to get them acclimated to the carrier before the flight.

Preparation of Each Cat.

You want to prepare the cats in advance so that you have enough time to train them for travelling. When training your cats, do so individually, not all cats learn at the same pace.

Cats are also very territorial, and they can get jealous and may become aggressive. By training each cat on its own, you give each cat equal attention and love so that the other doesn’t feel out of place.

Prepare your cat in the following ways:

Make your cat get used to loud noise since flights can get loud and rowdy.

Kitties must be trained to use the litter box or else go for diapers.

Both cats must be comfortable in the cage/kennel. If you want to buy a new cage do so in advance so that both cats have time to get used to it.

Teach your cats to be friendly around each other if they are going to share one cage. They must be compatible.

Train your cats to be comfortable around people. The airport and the plane will be very busy with a lot of interaction.

If you have a noisy cat, you want to quieten them down. A trick that works well is to introduce a toy or fidget that will keep them occupied.

Train your cats to stay inside the carrier for a few hours or minutes depending on the flight duration.

Get all Accessories and Equipment

Accessories and gear are very important especially when travelling. If you buying any new cat products, always buy it in advance so that your felines can get used to it.

Cats are not like other pets they don’t do well with anything new since they are instinctively driven. Your cats must have their own:

Airline approved carriers/cages (for adult cars)

Collars and leash

Litter boxes

Water dispensers and food bowls

Toys

First aid kit

Scratch post

Food and water

Sedatives

Make the Carrier Comfortable.

For the full duration of the flight, your cats are going to stay in the carrier. It’s important for both your cats to be comfortable and have all their needs provided.

For this reason, you want to create a nice surrounding inside the carrier. Include toys, blankets and other favourite things.

If both your cats are going to travel in one carrier. Make sure the carrier is big enough for both cats, you want to ensure that both cats have enough room to move and breath properly.

Enough Water and Food.

Depending on the duration of your flight you want to pack enough food and freshwater for two cats. You don’t want them fighting and competing for food. If your cat is travelling in the cabin with you, it will be easier for you to feed both cats regularly.

If your cats are travelling in the compartment in the cargo hold you want to make sure you put enough food and water for the full flight duration. You also want to line the carrier with absorbent padding.

Sedatives to Help with Stress.

There are a variety of sedatives and natural remedies that can be used to calm the cats down. You can use

Benadryl

Calming collar

Pheromone spray

Catnip or valerian

Chewy treats

With air travels, stay away from tranquillizers and heavy sedation as it can lead to other health issues.

Litter box or Diapers.

When travelling on planes with your cats, space is very limited. You want to get a good size litter box or even a litter tray. If your cat isn’t litter box trained you can go for diapers.

This may seem weird but cat diapers are a thing. A lot of pet owners use diapers for sick or elderly cats. This could be a safe option if the kitty is not trained. If cats are

Give your Cat Assurance.

It’s important for you to be your cat’s safety. The cats are going to experience something new and as we know flights can be a little scary at times. You must be able to calm your cats by speaking to them.

They also do well with soothing strokes, they love being petted. Cats are really smart and they understand. They are able to feel the emotion that you exude on them.

Always check up on them during the flights and show them, love. This will make them feel that everything is alright.

Safety Tips and Advice.

Always keep your eyes on your cats during the entire travel, if they are travelling in the cabin.

Try not to travel alone. With two cats it can be difficult to handle and a lot strenuous.

Carry all documentation and a recent picture of your cats.

Be observant and be quick to take action.

Listen to your cats, they are very vocal when they aren’t happy.

Never travel with cats that are not compatible.

If your cats are sensitive and docile, get them earmuffs and sedative to calm them down. Flight can be very turbulent at times.

Keep carriers closed at all times.

Make sure your felines are getting enough air and can easily breath.

Give your cats some space apart, since they love their freedom.

Be safe and enjoy your travel

On arrival, if your cats are in the compartment remember to fetch them before you leave. It takes some time for your cats to be released from the cargo compartment.