Why You Might Need to Ship a Cat
Shipping a cat across the country is a task that many pet owners face at some point, whether due to a job relocation, a long-distance move, family changes, or the adoption of a cat from a distant breeder or rescue organization. Whatever the reason, transporting a cat over long distances requires careful planning, preparation, and an understanding of the available options to ensure the safety, comfort, and well-being of your feline companion throughout the journey.
Cats are creatures of habit who generally prefer the familiarity of their home environment. Long-distance travel can be stressful for cats, and minimizing that stress is a top priority for responsible pet owners. By understanding the various transportation methods available and preparing your cat properly for the journey, you can make the experience as smooth and comfortable as possible for both you and your pet.
Transportation Options
There are several methods for transporting a cat across the country, each with its own advantages, disadvantages, costs, and considerations. The most common options include driving with your cat, flying with your cat in the cabin or as cargo, using a professional pet shipping service, and arranging ground transportation through a pet transport company.
Driving with your cat allows you to maintain direct control over your pet's environment and comfort throughout the journey. You can stop as needed for feeding, watering, and litter box breaks, and your cat has the reassurance of your presence. However, driving across the country takes several days, and not all cats travel well in vehicles. Some cats experience motion sickness, extreme anxiety, or persistent vocalization during car travel.
Flying with your cat is the fastest option for cross-country transport. Most major airlines allow small cats to travel in the cabin in an approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. This keeps your cat close to you and in a climate-controlled, pressurized environment. In-cabin pet travel typically costs between $95 and $200 each way, depending on the airline. However, there are weight and size restrictions, and not all flights or routes permit in-cabin pets.
For larger cats or those who cannot travel in the cabin, airline cargo transport is another option. Cats traveling as cargo are placed in the pressurized, temperature-controlled cargo hold of the aircraft. While this method is generally safe, it is more stressful for the cat due to the noise, vibration, and separation from the owner. Cargo pet transport typically costs between $200 and $600 or more, depending on the airline, route, and size of the shipping crate.
Professional Pet Shipping Services
Professional pet shipping services, also known as pet relocation companies, handle all aspects of transporting your cat, including booking flights, arranging ground transportation, ensuring compliance with health and documentation requirements, and providing door-to-door service. These companies employ experienced pet handlers and can be particularly valuable for international moves or situations where the owner is unable to accompany the pet.
The cost of professional pet shipping services varies widely depending on the distance, mode of transport, and level of service. For a cross-country shipment within the United States, costs typically range from $500 to $2,000 or more. While this is significantly more expensive than handling the transport yourself, the convenience and peace of mind provided by professional services can be well worth the investment.
Ground pet transport services use specially equipped vehicles to transport pets over long distances by road. These services typically feature climate-controlled vehicles, regular feeding and watering stops, and experienced drivers who are trained in animal care. Ground transport is generally less stressful for cats than air travel, as the vehicle environment is more controlled and consistent. However, ground transport takes longer than flying, with cross-country trips typically taking three to seven days depending on the route and the number of other pets being transported.
Preparing Your Cat for Travel
Proper preparation is essential for a successful long-distance move with a cat. The preparation process should begin several weeks before the scheduled travel date to give your cat time to adjust to new equipment and routines. Start by purchasing an appropriate carrier or crate that meets the requirements of your chosen transportation method. The carrier should be large enough for your cat to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so large that the cat is thrown around during movement.
Introduce the carrier to your cat well in advance of the travel date by placing it in a familiar area of your home with the door open and a comfortable blanket or towel inside. Encourage your cat to explore the carrier by placing treats, toys, or catnip inside. Feeding your cat meals inside or near the carrier can help create positive associations with the space.
Take your cat to the veterinarian for a health check-up and ensure that all vaccinations are current. If you are flying, most airlines require a health certificate issued by a veterinarian within 10 days of travel, confirming that your cat is healthy and fit to fly. Your veterinarian can also discuss options for managing travel anxiety, such as calming supplements, pheromone sprays, or, in some cases, prescription anti-anxiety medication.
Update your cat's identification, including microchip information and collar tags, with your current contact details and your destination address and phone number. In the unlikely event that your cat becomes separated from you during the journey, up-to-date identification significantly increases the chances of a safe reunion.
Carrier Requirements and Specifications
The carrier or crate you use to transport your cat must meet specific requirements depending on the transportation method. For in-cabin airline travel, the carrier must be soft-sided or hard-sided (depending on the airline), with adequate ventilation on at least two sides, a secure locking mechanism, and dimensions that allow it to fit under the seat in front of you. Most airlines specify maximum dimensions of approximately 17 to 19 inches long, 12 to 13 inches wide, and 8 to 9 inches tall, though exact requirements vary by airline and aircraft type.
For airline cargo transport, the crate must meet International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards. These require a rigid, escape-proof container with adequate ventilation, a secure door latch, absorbent bedding, and attached food and water containers. The crate must be large enough for the cat to stand and turn around comfortably, and it must be clearly labeled with "Live Animal" stickers, your contact information, and feeding and watering instructions.
For car travel, a hard-sided carrier with a secure door is recommended for safety. The carrier should be secured in the vehicle using a seatbelt or other restraint to prevent it from sliding or tipping during sudden stops or turns. Never allow a cat to roam freely in a moving vehicle, as this poses a danger to both the cat and the driver.
During the Journey
During the journey, maintaining your cat's comfort and well-being is the top priority. For car travel, offer water at regular intervals and provide access to a litter box during rest stops. Keep the vehicle at a comfortable temperature and avoid direct sunlight on the carrier. Play soft music or maintain a calm, quiet environment to help reduce stress.
For air travel, ensure that your cat has not eaten a large meal within four to six hours of the flight to reduce the risk of motion sickness. Place a familiar item, such as a worn t-shirt or a small blanket, in the carrier to provide comforting scents. If your cat is traveling in the cabin, you can offer reassurance through the carrier during the flight, speaking softly and occasionally offering a fingertip for your cat to sniff.
Regardless of the transportation method, monitor your cat for signs of distress, including excessive vocalization, panting, drooling, or attempts to escape the carrier. While some vocalization and anxiety are normal during travel, extreme or prolonged distress may indicate a health issue that requires attention.
Settling In at the Destination
Once you arrive at your destination, give your cat time to adjust to the new environment gradually. Set up a quiet, comfortable room with familiar items such as the cat's bed, toys, food and water bowls, and litter box. Allow your cat to explore this room at its own pace before gradually introducing access to the rest of the home.
Maintain your cat's regular feeding schedule and routine as much as possible to provide a sense of normalcy during the transition. Some cats may hide, refuse food, or display behavioral changes for a few days after a long-distance move, and this is generally normal. If concerning symptoms persist beyond a week, consult your veterinarian for guidance.
Conclusion
Shipping a cat across the country requires careful planning and consideration of your cat's individual needs and temperament. Whether you choose to drive, fly, or use a professional pet shipping service, the key to a successful journey is thorough preparation, appropriate equipment, and a focus on your cat's comfort and safety throughout the process. With the right approach, you can ensure that your feline companion arrives at your new home happy, healthy, and ready to explore their new surroundings.
