You’re ready for a big move overseas, but there’s one question weighing on your mind: Can I bring my cat on a plane with me?

The idea of leaving your beloved feline behind is unthinkable. But figuring out how to navigate international pet travel can feel like an overwhelming puzzle.

If you’re unsure where to start, you’re not alone.

In this article, I explain the standard airline rules for pet travel and answer all your burning questions about bringing your cat on a plane.

Can My Cat Come With Me On A Plane?

Bringing your cat on a plane is possible, but it depends on the airline’s rules. Many airlines let you bring your cat in the cabin as carry-on luggage, as long as they’re cozy in a carrier that fits under your seat. 

This is hands-down the easiest and safest way to travel with your cat. You’ll take them through security, head to your gate, and keep them by your side the entire journey.

However, note the following:

• Your cat (plus carrier) must weigh no more than 8 kg to be allowed in the cabin.
• Airlines are strict about carrier sizes, so double-check those dimensions before you fly!
• Soft, fabric carriers are a must—hard plastic ones won’t be allowed.

Now, some airlines only allow cats in the hold. This means they will fly on the same plane as you but will be in the luggage compartment under the plane.

You will NOT be able to visit them during the flight, and you’ll have to check them in at the airport as oversized luggage. If you have a connecting flight, you will also be unable to see them during your layover.

Therefore, it’s essential to realize that your cat will spend an extended period away from you, which could be very stressful for them.

Can My Cat Sit On My Lap On The Plane?

If you travel with your cat in-cabin, you will likely want to hold them on your lap to reassure them and keep them calm. Unfortunately, it is against the airline rules to do so. All airline’s pet policies state that pets must be kept in their carrier at all times.

That being said, how much this is enforced will depend on the flight attendants. Many people have been able to have their cat on their lap without any problems.

While I don’t recommend breaking the airline’s rules, you might or might not find some leeway regarding this regulation on your flight.

Can You Bring Two Cats On A Plane?

Most airlines only allow one pet per person in the cabin. Therefore, if you have more than one cat and you’re traveling alone, you will face a lot of difficulty bringing them both into the cabin.

A few US airlines, such as United Airlines and JetBlue, allow two pets per person if you buy an additional seat. Unfortunately, I haven’t found any European airlines that enable this, but it could still be worth calling your preferred airline and asking about it.

A select few airlines may allow two cats in one carrier per person. However, this is typically only the case if they are kittens, as their combined weight must be no more than 8kg.

It’s also worth noting that the carrier dimensions do not allow much space for one cat, let alone two. Moreover, airlines state that each cat must be able to stand up and turn around in their carrier.

So, if your cats are not kittens, you are left with two options…

1. Seek a flight volunteer – You can offer to pay for a friend or stranger’s plane ticket in exchange for them to have your cat with them in the cabin. There are a few Facebook groups you can post in to look for people who are flying to the same destination as you and would be willing to help you out.
2. Bring one cat in the cabin and put the others in the hold – I know this is easier said than done. However, if you cannot find a flight volunteer, this will be the only option.

Airlines That Allow Cats On The Plane

Many airlines allow cats on planes, but the policies can vary. Here are some airlines that allow pets to travel in the cabin domestically and/or internationally. Please see the airline website for details of their pet policy.

• KLM
• AirFrance
• Lufthansa
• Swiss Air
• Finnair
• Norwegian
• Etihad Airways
• United Airlines
• Delta
• American Airlines
• JetBlue

*This is not a complete list of pet-friendly airlines

If you plan to bring your cat from Thailand to the UK or EU, I’ve created an in-depth PDF guide on this. The guide includes the best pet-friendly airlines and their rules and regulations. You can download it for free by entering your details below.

How Much Does It Cost To Take A Cat On A Plane?

The fee to bring your cat on a plane varies depending on the airline and the flight duration. Generally, taking your cat in the cabin is cheaper than in the hold.

Here are a few estimated costs I have found on European airline websites to give you an idea.

• KLM: € 70- € 500 per one-way trip
• AirFrance: €200 in cabin, € 400 in hold
• Lufthansa: € 70 – € 300 per one-way trip
• Swiss Air: € 110 in cabin; € 190 – € 380 in hold
• Etihad Airways: $1,500 in cabin

Note that these costs are for the flight only. Other costs involved in flying with a cat include obtaining pet travel documents (pet passports, vaccines, microchips, etc.).

For more information on preparing your cat to travel, check out this article detailing the pet relocation process from Thailand.

Other FAQs About Bringing Your Cat On A Plane

Here are some additional common questions about flying with a cat:

Is it cruel to take a cat on a plane?

Many cats get anxious in unfamiliar environments, and the noise and motion of flying can be particularly startling for them. However, flying is a temporary experience that you and your cat can manage with proper preparation.

If you’re moving overseas, putting your cat through the temporary stress of flying is a much better option than abandoning them!

Can I buy my cat a seat on a plane?

A few airlines, such as Etihad Airways, give the option of buying an extra seat for your cat. This allows you to keep your kitty next to you on the seat rather than under the seat in front of you.

However, even if you buy a seat for your cat, they must still stay in their carrier during the flight.

What if my cat makes noise on the plane?

Your cat may meow on the plane due to fear or anxiety. Unless your kitty’s meowing is very loud, it is unlikely to disturb other passengers as the airplane noise will help to drown it out.

Still, you can help to keep them calm and quiet by petting them, feeding them their favorite treat, or putting a towel over their carrier.

What can I use to calm my cat for travel?

Various calming aids can help to manage your cat’s stress and anxiety levels when flying—these range from holistic products to prescription medications. Check out my list of the best cat calming products to learn more.

If your cat is particularly anxious, I recommend speaking with your veterinarian about anti-anxiety medications like fluoxetine (Prozac).

What if my cat has to poop on the plane?

Most cats will hold in their pee and poop during stressful and uncertain situations like traveling.

However, if taking a long flight, I recommend bringing a foldable litter tray designed for travel and a small bag of cat litter. You can then take your kitty to the bathroom on the plane and offer them their litter tray.

Final Thoughts On Bringing Your Cat On A Plane

Bringing your cat overseas may come with challenges, but it’s absolutely doable — and it all begins with understanding the airline rules.

Next, you’ll want to dive into the specific requirements for importing pets into your destination country. I’ve covered the most common documents you’ll need in my article on preparing your cat to travel internationally from Thailand.

Do you have any other questions about flying with your cat that I didn’t cover?

If so, comment below, and I’ll answer it in a future article!