Having to take your cat on an airplane is not ideal, but unfortunately in many cases it is necessary. Taking the necessary precautions for safely traveling with your cat can help you avoid complications and possible disaster when your cat is flying the friendly skies. Keep the following preparation guidelines in mind when planning a trip that involves air travel and your cat.

One Month Before

Make sure you call the airline in advance to make sure they can accommodate your pet adequately. Find out what type of carrier they require and what other policies they have in place for traveling with your pet. Start getting your cat adjusted to the carrier they will be traveling in by taking them for car trips in the carrier.

Two Weeks Before

Take your cat to the veterinarian and make sure your cat is healthy enough to travel. While you are at the vet get a health certificate, a vaccination record and sedatives if they feel your cat will need them. Make sure you have your cat’s ID tag updated and that it is still legible. Make sure that you have all necessary paperwork and an updated photo of your cat with your other travel documents. Additionally, label your cat’s carrier with your name, address and phone number along with a contact number for the place in which you are traveling.

The Day of the Trip

Give your cat a meal between four to six hours before your flight and then don’t feed it again to avoid nausea. Allow your cat water right before you leave for the airport to ensure that they are adequately hydrated. When your flight is over make sure you exit the plane last and release your cat in a quiet room with a small amount of dry food and water until they get adjusted.