Re: need advice on flying with a cat

"edie humperdink" <markdemers15@[EMAIL PROTECTED]
> wrote in message 
news:1179383320.416381.135590@[EMAIL PROTECTED]
>I am moving across the country and will take my 5-year-old cat on
> American Airlines.  He will be traveling in the cargo hold for a 5.5
> hour flight (assuming no delays).  Should I feed and try to water him
> right before the trip?  Should I leave some food pellets inside the
> cage for him to munch on?  Should I worry about bathroom "accidents"?
> Any advice from experienced travelers will be greatly appreciated!
>

I have done this twice in the past year with two different cats, both
while 
flying USAirways and with one transfer.

Rule number one:  ALWAYS fly with the cat in the cabin if possible - it's 
ALWAYS preferable and less stressful to the cat, particularly if there are

any delays.

Rule number two:  Get the cat checked out by a vet within 10 days before 
flying, regardless of whether the airline requires it or not.

Rule number three:  DO NOT use any tranquilizer, regardless of what your 
friends all say (and mine all suggested it, silly people).

Rule number four:  Go light on food and water before flight, but chances
are 
the kitty will not want to do either because just putting him/her in the 
carrier is enough to put them on edge.

Rule number five:  Make sure your carrier meets all of the airline's size 
guidelines.  If you're flying with kitty in the cabin, each airline will 
have those measurements available on line.  My experience is that a 
soft-sided carrier with lots of openings (for ventilation) is best.  I'm 
also particularly fond of carriers that have those pads you can put in the

bottom that will absorb kitty pee, keeping it away from kitty.  They work 
great.

Finally, rule number six:  Lots of TLC for kitty when you reach your 
destination and allow them time to get over their kitty "jet lag."