It's exciting to consider bringing your beloved feline friend along on your next adventure! Southwest Airlines is a popular choice for many travelers, and thankfully, they do allow cats in the cabin. However, there are specific rules and costs involved that you absolutely need to understand before you pack your bags (and your cat's!).
Let's break down everything you need to know about flying with your cat on Southwest, step-by-step, including the crucial cost factor.
The Ultimate Guide to Flying Your Cat on Southwest Airlines: Costs and Beyond!
Are you ready to embark on a journey with your furry companion? Let's make sure it's a smooth ride for both of you!
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| How Much Does It Cost To Bring A Cat On Southwest Airlines |
Step 1: Is Your Cat Eligible to Fly Southwest? (Engage with your furry co-pilot!)
Before we even talk about dollars and cents, the most important question is: can your cat even fly? Southwest has clear guidelines for the types of pets they accept in the cabin.
QuickTip: Scan for summary-style sentences.
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Small, Vaccinated Domestic Cats: Only small, vaccinated domestic cats (and dogs) are allowed. This means no exotic pets, no large breeds that can't fit comfortably under the seat, and certainly no wild animals!
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Age Requirement: Your cat must be at least eight (8) weeks old to travel. This ensures they are old enough and developed enough to handle the stresses of travel.
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Behavior Matters: Your cat needs to be well-behaved, harmless, and non-disruptive. If your cat is prone to excessive meowing, scratching, growling, biting, or lunging, they might be denied boarding. Airlines prioritize the comfort and safety of all passengers.
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No International Flights (with a few exceptions): This is a crucial restriction. Southwest does not accept pets on international flights, or on any itinerary that includes an international leg, with the exception of flights between the Hawaiian islands and to/from Puerto Rico. So, if your dream vacation involves a cat and another country, Southwest likely isn't your airline.
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No Cargo Travel: Unlike some other airlines, Southwest does not transport pets in the cargo hold. All approved pets must travel in the cabin with you.
Take a moment: Look at your cat. Are they generally calm? Do they handle new environments well? Consider their personality carefully. A stressed cat can make for a very stressful flight, for both of you!
Step 2: Understanding the Southwest Airlines Pet Fare – The Core Cost
Now for the main event: how much will it cost?
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The Pet Fare: Southwest Airlines charges a flat fee of $125 per pet carrier, each way, for flights within the U.S. and between Hawaiian islands. If you're flying round trip, that's $250! For flights between Hawaiian islands, the fee is $35 each way.
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Payment Method: The pet fare must be paid at the airport ticket counter with accepted credit cards on the day of travel. You cannot pay this fee online in advance. This is an important detail to remember when planning your airport arrival time.
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Refundable Fare: Good news! The pet fare is refundable if you cancel your reservation or if your flight is cancelled by Southwest.
Sub-heading: Why the "Each Way" Matters
It's easy to overlook this detail, but "each way" means precisely that. A round-trip flight from, say, Los Angeles to Denver and back, will cost you $125 for the outbound flight and another $125 for the return flight, totaling $250 for your cat's travel. Budget accordingly!
Tip: Don’t skim past key examples.
Step 3: The Essential Pet Carrier: Dimensions and Requirements
The pet carrier is not just a box; it's your cat's cozy, safe space for the journey, and it must meet Southwest's strict requirements. Failing to meet these could result in your cat being denied boarding.
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Maximum Dimensions:
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Soft-sided or Hard-sided Carriers: The maximum dimensions are 18.5" (L) x 13.5" (W) x 9.5" (H).
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Southwest Airlines Branded Carrier: Southwest also sells its own approved pet carrier with slightly different dimensions: 17” (L) x 10” (W) x 9.5” (H). This carrier is always permitted.
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Under-Seat Stowage: The carrier must fit completely under the seat in front of you. This is non-negotiable.
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Comfort for Your Cat: Your cat must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside the carrier. This is not just a rule, it's a matter of humane travel. If your cat looks cramped or distressed, you could be denied boarding.
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Leak-Proof and Well-Ventilated: The carrier must be leak-proof (think puppy pads!) and have adequate ventilation on at least three sides to ensure your cat has enough airflow.
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One Carrier Per Customer: Each ticketed customer is permitted to travel with only one pet carrier.
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Two Pets of the Same Species: You can have up to two cats (or two dogs) of the same species in a single carrier, provided they fit comfortably and meet all other requirements. Remember, they must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down without discomfort.
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Counts as Carry-On or Personal Item: Your pet carrier will count as either your personal item or your carry-on bag. This means you can bring the pet carrier AND a personal item OR the pet carrier AND a regular-sized carry-on bag, but not all three. Plan your baggage accordingly!
Sub-heading: Soft-Sided vs. Hard-Sided: Which is Best?
While Southwest allows both, soft-sided carriers often offer a bit more flexibility to "squish" under the seat if they are slightly over the height limit, as long as your cat still has ample space. However, hard-sided carriers offer more rigid protection. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your cat's comfort and your carrier's exact dimensions. Always prioritize your cat's well-being.
QuickTip: Go back if you lost the thread.
Step 4: Booking Your Flight and Reserving Your Cat's Spot
You can't just show up at the airport with your cat and expect them to get on the plane. There are limited spots available.
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Limited Capacity: Southwest limits the number of pet carriers per flight to a maximum of six (6). These spots are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
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Reservation Required: You must make a reservation for your cat in advance by calling Southwest Airlines directly. You cannot add a pet to your reservation online when you initially book your flight.
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Southwest Airlines Phone Number: 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792).
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Book Your Flight First: It's generally recommended to book your own flight first, and then immediately call Southwest to add your pet to your reservation. This way, you ensure your travel dates are secured before trying to secure a pet spot.
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Information Needed: When you call, the representative will likely ask for your pet's name, breed, and weight.
Step 5: Pre-Flight Preparations for a Smooth Journey
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Once you've secured your cat's spot, it's time for some important preparation.
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Vet Visit (Optional but Recommended): While Southwest Airlines does not require a health certificate or any other veterinary documentation for domestic travel, it's always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian before flying. They can advise if your cat is healthy enough for travel, discuss potential sedatives (though many airlines advise against them due to potential respiratory issues at altitude), and ensure all vaccinations are up to date.
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Carrier Acclimation: Get your cat comfortable with their carrier well in advance of your travel date. Leave it open in your home with treats, toys, or their favorite blanket inside. Encourage them to enter and spend time there. This will reduce stress on travel day.
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Food and Water: Do not feed your cat a large meal right before the flight. A small amount of food a few hours before is usually fine. Offer water before leaving for the airport.
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Potty Break: Allow your cat a final potty break just before you head to the airport. Many airports have designated pet relief areas.
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Packing the Carrier: Include a soft blanket or a familiar item that smells like home to provide comfort. A few small, quiet toys can also be helpful.
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Leash and Harness: Even though your cat will be in the carrier, have a secure leash and harness readily available. You'll need it during the security screening process.
Step 6: Airport Check-In and Security: What to Expect on Travel Day
QuickTip: Skim fast, then return for detail.
The day of travel can be hectic, but knowing the process will ease your stress.
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Arrive Early: Southwest recommends arriving at the airport at least two hours, but no more than four hours, before your scheduled flight if you're traveling with your pet. This allows ample time for check-in, paying the pet fee, and going through security.
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Ticket Counter Check-in: You must check in at the Southwest Airlines ticket counter with your cat. This is where you'll pay the $125 pet fare. An agent will verify your pet and carrier meet the requirements.
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Cabin Pet Tag: Once everything is cleared and the fee is paid, you'll receive a special "Cabin Pet" tag for your carrier.
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Security Checkpoint (TSA): This is a critical step.
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You will be required to remove your cat from its carrier and hold them while the carrier goes through the X-ray machine.
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Make sure your cat is securely harnessed and leashed during this process to prevent any escapes.
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All pet carriers are subject to being searched.
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Remain in Carrier: After security, your cat must remain secured in its carrier at all times while in the gate area, during boarding/deplaning, and for the entire flight. Failure to follow this rule can result in denial of transportation.
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Boarding: Customers traveling with pets will board with their assigned boarding group.
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Onboard Seating Restrictions: While Southwest has an open seating policy, if you're traveling with a pet, you cannot sit in an exit row seat or a seat that does not have under-seat stowage in front of it. Your pet's carrier must remain under the seat for the duration of the flight.
Step 7: During the Flight: Keeping Your Cat Calm
Your cat's comfort is paramount during the flight.
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Under the Seat: The carrier must remain stowed under the seat in front of you for the entire flight. Do not pull it out, place it on your lap, or try to take your cat out.
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Minimize Disturbances: Try to keep your cat as calm as possible. Avoid excessive talking to them or trying to open the carrier, as this can cause more stress.
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Disruptive Behavior: If your cat exhibits disruptive behavior (excessive whining, barking, scratching, growling, biting, urinating/defecating in the cabin), they may be denied transportation or removed from the flight.
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No Food During Flight: It's generally best not to offer food during the flight, as it can upset their stomach. Water can be offered sparingly, perhaps with a small travel bowl that can be placed inside the carrier without opening it fully.
Step 8: Arrival and Beyond: A Happy Reunion
You've made it! Now for the final steps.
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Deplaning: Keep your cat in their carrier until you are clear of the aircraft and in a safe area of the terminal.
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Pet Relief Areas: Look for designated pet relief areas at your arrival airport. Most major airports have them.
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Acclimation at Destination: Once you arrive at your final destination, allow your cat some time to acclimate to their new surroundings. Set up their litter box, food, and water in a quiet, safe space.
10 Related FAQ Questions: How To's for Flying with Your Cat on Southwest
Here are some quick answers to common questions about flying with your cat on Southwest:
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How to make a pet reservation on Southwest Airlines? Call Southwest Airlines at 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792) to add your cat to your existing flight reservation.
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How to choose the right pet carrier for Southwest? Select a leak-proof, well-ventilated carrier (soft or hard-sided) that is no larger than 18.5" L x 13.5" W x 9.5" H, and ensures your cat can stand, turn, and lie down comfortably inside.
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How to pay the pet fee on Southwest? The $125 per-way pet fare must be paid with a credit card at the Southwest Airlines ticket counter on the day of your flight.
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How to get my cat accustomed to the carrier before flying? Introduce the carrier gradually, leaving it open with treats and familiar items inside. Encourage positive associations by feeding them near or in the carrier in the weeks leading up to your trip.
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How to go through airport security with a cat on Southwest? You will need to remove your cat from its carrier and hold them while the empty carrier goes through the X-ray machine. Have a secure harness and leash on your cat.
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How to ensure my cat stays calm during the flight? Acclimate your cat to the carrier, avoid feeding large meals before the flight, and provide a familiar blanket or toy inside the carrier. Minimize disturbances during the flight.
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How to find pet relief areas at airports? Check the airport's website or app, or look for signs in the terminal for designated pet relief areas both before and after security checkpoints.
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How to know if my flight has pet availability on Southwest? You'll find out the availability for pets when you call Southwest Airlines to add your cat to your reservation. Spots are limited to six per flight.
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How to change or cancel a pet reservation on Southwest? Contact Southwest Airlines directly to modify or cancel your pet reservation. The pet fare is refundable if you cancel your flight or if Southwest cancels it.
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How to prepare documentation for flying with a cat on Southwest? For domestic flights, Southwest does not require a health certificate. However, always check with your veterinarian and the state you are traveling to for any specific state-level requirements.
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