Flying with your pet in the cabin can be a much more relaxed experience if you prepare everything in advance. Although every animal reacts differently to travelling, there are several steps you can take to make the flight as comfortable and pleasant as possible, both for your pet and for you.
How can you prepare your pet for flying in the cabin? Here are some tips to help you make the journey as stress-free as possible.
Avoid feeding your pet before the flight
It is advisable to avoid giving your pet a large meal just before flying. Stress, aircraft movements and changes in routine can cause digestive discomfort, nausea or even vomiting.
Ideally, you should consult your vet to determine when your pet should have its last meal before travelling, taking into account its age, size and specific needs. However, it is important to ensure that your pet has access to water and does not go without food for longer than necessary.
Place absorbent pads inside the carrier
Absorbent pads are an essential accessory when travelling with your pet in the cabin. They absorb urine and help keep the inside of the carrier as clean and dry as possible throughout the journey.
We recommend taking a few spare pads so that you can replace them if necessary. This will help ensure that your pet travels in hygienic and comfortable conditions.
Is it advisable to give your pet a sedative?
Flying can be stressful for some animals, particularly if they are not used to travelling or spending several hours inside a carrier.
Sedating animals for air travel is prohibited by IATA (International Air Transport Association) and can pose health risks. For this reason, you should never administer sedatives to your pet on your own.
However, our vet can assess your pet's condition and, if appropriate, recommend alternatives to help manage stress, such as a mild tranquilliser, when medically indicated and permitted by the airline. Every animal is different, so it is essential to seek veterinary advice before flying.
Choose the right carrier
The carrier is one of the most important factors in ensuring your pet's comfort during the flight. It must not only meet the airline's size and other requirements but also allow your pet to travel in suitable conditions.
It is important to check the airline's specific regulations in advance, as these may vary depending on the airline and the type of aircraft. In addition to meeting the size and weight requirements, the carrier must provide adequate ventilation and allow your pet to adopt a comfortable position.
Whenever possible, get your pet used to the carrier days or even weeks before travelling. Allowing it to explore and spend time in the carrier at home can help it feel safer and more comfortable when it is time to fly.
Travel with peace of mind: Vetravel is here to help
Preparing to fly with your pet involves much more than simply booking a ticket. It is important to understand the airline's regulations, choose the right carrier and take your travel companion's individual needs into account.
At Vetravel, we help you prepare every detail to ensure your pet travels in the best possible conditions. Our team can advise you on flight requirements and, together with our vet, guide you on how to prepare your pet for the journey.
