Traveling with your beloved feline companions can be a rewarding experience, but it requires meticulous planning, especially when flying with two cats on an airline like American Airlines. Their policies are specific and designed for the safety and comfort of all passengers, including our furry friends. This lengthy guide will walk you through every step, ensuring a smooth journey for you and your two purring pals.
Embarking on a Pawsome Journey: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Flying Two Cats with American Airlines
Are you dreaming of bringing your two adorable cats along on your next American Airlines adventure? Fantastic! But before you pack their favorite toys and envision them purring contentedly by your side, let's dive into the essential details. Navigating airline pet policies can feel like a labyrinth, but with this comprehensive guide, you'll be a pro in no time.
Step 1: Can Your Two Cats Fly in the Cabin Together? Understanding American Airlines' In-Cabin Pet Policy
This is often the first and most critical question for multi-cat households. So, let's get straight to it: Yes, American Airlines may allow two cats to travel in the same in-cabin carrier, but under very strict conditions. This is a crucial distinction, as typically, it's one pet per carrier per passenger.
Sub-heading: The "Two-Cats-In-One-Carrier" Caveat
For two cats to share a single carrier in the cabin, they must meet the following criteria:
Same Species: They must both be cats (no mixing cats and dogs!).
Similar Size & Weight: They need to be of similar size and collectively weigh less than 20 lbs (9.07 kgs) including the carrier. This is a hard limit.
Age Restriction: Both cats must be between 8 weeks and 6 months old. This significantly limits the possibility for adult cats to travel together in one carrier.
Comfortably Accommodated: Most importantly, they must be able to comfortably stand up, turn around, and lie down in the carrier without touching the top or sides. If they look cramped, they won't be allowed.
*It's essential to understand that if your cats do not meet these specific criteria, they will require separate carriers, which then means you, as a single passenger, can only bring one cat in the cabin. This is a critical point that often surprises travelers. If you have two adult cats, or two cats over 6 months old, you will likely not be able to bring both in the cabin as one passenger. You would need another adult traveling with you, each bringing one cat in their own approved carrier.
Sub-heading: Carrier Requirements for In-Cabin Travel
If your cats do meet the criteria to share a carrier, or if you're exploring the possibility of having two passengers each bring one cat, the carrier itself is paramount:
Under-Seat Fit: The carrier must fit completely under the seat in front of you. Dimensions vary slightly depending on the aircraft, so it's always best to contact American Airlines Reservations directly to verify maximum dimensions for your specific flight.
Soft-sided carriers are generally recommended as they are more flexible and can be slightly larger while still conforming to under-seat space. They should be secure, padded, water-repellent, and have nylon mesh ventilation on at least three sides.
Hard-sided kennels have stricter dimensions: approximately 19 L x 13 W x 9 H inches (48 x 33 x 22 cm) for mainline flights and 16 L x 12 W x 8 H inches (40 x 30 x 20 cm) for American Eagle regional flights.
Leak-Proof & Secure: The carrier must be leak-proof and escape-proof, with a securely fastened door.
Ventilation: Adequate ventilation is non-negotiable for your cats' safety and comfort.
One Carry-On Item: Your pet carrier replaces your carry-on bag. You are allowed to bring one personal item (like a purse or small backpack) in addition to the pet carrier.
Sub-heading: Pet Limits Per Flight
American Airlines has a limit on the number of pets allowed in the main cabin per flight (typically seven, and five on American Eagle flights). This is why early booking and confirmation are absolutely crucial.
Step 2: The Booking & Notification Process: Securing Your Cats' Spot
Once you've determined if your cats can fly in the cabin (either together or separately with another passenger), it's time to book!
Sub-heading: Booking Your Flight
Online or Phone: You can initially book your human tickets online. However, do not assume your cats can automatically join.
Immediate Notification: As soon as your human flight is booked, immediately call American Airlines Reservations to add your pet(s) to your booking. In-cabin pet spots are limited and on a first-come, first-served basis. Don't wait!
Provide Details: Be prepared to provide all necessary details about your cats and their carrier, including confirming they meet the weight and size requirements for in-cabin travel.
Pay the Pet Fee: The current one-way fee for a carry-on pet on American Airlines is $125 USD/CAD for tickets issued on/after April 8, 2025 (previously $95). This fee applies per carrier, regardless of whether you have one or two cats in it (if they meet the criteria).
Sub-heading: What If In-Cabin isn't an Option? Exploring American Airlines Cargo (American PetEmbark)
If your cats don't meet the in-cabin requirements, or if the in-cabin spots are full, your only other option for pet travel with American Airlines is through American Airlines Cargo (American PetEmbark). Please note that American Airlines generally does not accept pets as checked baggage at the ticket counter, with the exception of active-duty U.S. Military and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders.
Cargo is Different: This is a separate service for animals traveling in the climate-controlled cargo hold.
Weight Limits: For cargo, the combined weight of your pet and kennel can be up to 100 pounds (45 kg). This allows for individual adult cats or potentially two larger adult cats in separate, appropriately sized kennels.
Kennel Requirements for Cargo: These are much stricter than in-cabin. Kennels must be:
Made of wood, metal, or plastic.
Large enough for the animal to turn around, sit, and lie down in a natural position.
Leak-proof and escape-proof.
Have ventilation on at least two sides (other than the door).
Have food and water dishes accessible from the outside.
Clearly labeled with "LIVE ANIMAL" stickers, your name, address, and phone number.
Temperature Restrictions: This is critical for cargo travel. American Airlines will NOT transport warm-blooded animals when ground temperatures (at origin, connection, and destination cities) are higher than 85°F (29°C) or less than 20°F (-6°C). They also embargo specific hot cities (e.g., Las Vegas, Phoenix) from May 1 to September 30. Always check the temperature forecast for your entire itinerary well in advance.
Breed Restrictions for Cargo: American Airlines has restrictions on brachycephalic (snub-nosed) cat breeds (e.g., Persian, Himalayan, Burmese) due to respiratory risks during air travel. They also do not accept historically aggressive breeds. Verify your cat's breed is not on their restricted list for cargo.
Booking Cargo: Contact American Airlines Cargo directly to make arrangements. This process is more involved and requires significant lead time.
Step 3: Veterinary Preparedness: Health Certificates & Vaccinations
This step is non-negotiable for the safety and legality of your cats' travel.
Sub-heading: Health Certificate
Timing is Key: Your cats must have a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian.
For domestic travel, the certificate must be issued within 10 days of your initial travel date.
If you're traveling round-trip on the same ticket, the certificate can be used for the return journey if it's within 60 days of issuance. If separate tickets, a new certificate is needed for the return if the initial one is over 10 days old.
For international travel, the requirements are even more stringent and vary by destination country. Always check the USDA APHIS website for specific country requirements well in advance.
What it Includes: The health certificate verifies that your cats are free of infectious or contagious diseases and are healthy enough for air travel. It should include their breed, weight, date of birth/age, and vaccination history.
Veterinarian Accreditation: For international travel, you may need a USDA-accredited veterinarian.
Sub-heading: Rabies Vaccination
Proof Required: All cats traveling on American Airlines must have a valid rabies vaccination certificate issued and signed by a licensed veterinarian, in accordance with local regulations. Cats less than 12 weeks old may not be required to be vaccinated.
Other Vaccinations: While not always strictly required by the airline, it's highly recommended that your cats are up-to-date on all core vaccinations (e.g., feline distemper, calicivirus, herpesvirus) for their overall health and safety.
Sub-heading: Breed Verification Form
For all cats and dogs, American Airlines requires a signed breed verification form by a licensed veterinarian. This is particularly important to ensure no restricted brachycephalic breeds are traveling in cargo.
Step 4: Pre-Travel Preparations: Comfort & Safety for Your Feline Friends
Making the journey as stress-free as possible for your cats is vital.
Sub-heading: Carrier Acclimation
Early Introduction: Start getting your cats accustomed to their carrier well in advance (weeks, even months). Leave it open with treats, toys, and familiar bedding inside.
Positive Association: Feed them inside the carrier, take them on short car rides in it, and make it a safe, positive space. This will significantly reduce their stress on travel day.
Sub-heading: Hydration & Feeding
Last Meal: Feed your cats a light meal several hours before departure. Avoid overfeeding.
Hydration: Offer water right up until check-in. Attach a water bottle to the carrier for cargo travel, or offer water in a spill-proof dish for in-cabin. You must provide written certification that your pet has been fed and offered water within 4 hours before you deliver them to the airplane.
No Sedation: American Airlines, like most airlines, strongly advises against sedating or tranquilizing your pets. Sedatives can increase the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular problems at high altitudes. If you have a particularly anxious cat, discuss natural calming aids or veterinary-approved non-sedative options with your vet.
Sub-heading: Identification & Comfort Items
ID Tags: Ensure both cats have collars with up-to-date ID tags that include your name, phone number (including a cell number), and destination contact information.
Microchip: A microchip with current registration is a must for reunification if your cat gets lost.
Familiar Items: Place a familiar blanket, a small, favorite toy, or an item of your clothing with your scent in the carrier to provide comfort.
Absorbent Material: Line the carrier with absorbent padding (e.g., pee pads, old towels) in case of accidents.
Step 5: Airport Day: Check-In & Onboard Procedures
The day of travel requires careful timing and adherence to rules.
Sub-heading: Arrival at the Airport
Early Arrival: Arrive at the airport well in advance of your flight (at least 2-3 hours for domestic, more for international) to allow ample time for pet check-in procedures.
Ticket Counter Check-In: You must check in with your cats at the American Airlines ticket counter. You cannot use curbside or self-service check-in with pets.
Health Documentation: Have all your veterinary documents (health certificate, rabies vaccination, breed verification form) readily available.
Final Weight Check: If your cats are in-cabin, they (and their carrier) will be weighed at check-in to confirm they are under the 20 lb limit.
Relief Opportunity: Offer your cats a chance to use a pet relief area before entering the terminal, if available.
Sub-heading: Security Checkpoint
Remove Cats from Carrier: You will be required to remove your cats from their carrier at the TSA security checkpoint.
Carrier Through X-ray: The empty carrier will go through the X-ray machine.
Secure Hold: Hold your cats securely in your arms or on a leash/harness (if they are accustomed to it) as you walk through the metal detector. Ensure they cannot escape.
Sub-heading: Boarding & In-Flight
Boarding with Care: During boarding, place the carrier under the seat in front of you.
Stay Contained: Your cats must remain inside their carrier with the door secured and zipped for the entire duration of the flight, including taxi, takeoff, and landing. This is a strict FAA regulation.
Avoid Disturbances: While you can gently interact with your cats through the carrier's mesh, avoid opening the carrier or letting them out.
Comfort Breaks (Long Flights): For very long flights (especially those over 24 hours for cargo), comfort stops may be arranged by American Airlines Cargo, where your pets will be given food and water. For in-cabin, you'll need to manage their needs within the carrier.
Step 6: Arrival & Post-Flight Care: Reunion and Decompression
The journey isn't over until your cats are safely settled.
Sub-heading: Retrieving Your Cats
In-Cabin: Simply retrieve your carrier from under the seat.
Cargo: Follow the instructions provided by American Airlines Cargo for picking up your cats at the destination cargo facility. This may be a separate location from the passenger terminal.
Sub-heading: Post-Flight Decompression
Quiet Space: Upon arrival at your destination, provide your cats with a quiet, secure space where they can decompress.
Food and Water: Offer them fresh water and a small, familiar meal.
Monitor Behavior: Observe them for any signs of stress, illness, or unusual behavior in the days following travel. Consult a local vet if you have any concerns.
Praise & Comfort: Give them lots of love, gentle reassurance, and playtime to help them readjust.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - How to Fly with Two Cats American Airlines
How to book a flight with two cats on American Airlines?
Call American Airlines Reservations immediately after booking your human ticket to add your pet(s) to your reservation. State clearly that you are inquiring about flying with two cats.
How to ensure my two cats meet American Airlines' in-cabin requirements?
Verify they are both between 8 weeks and 6 months old, are of similar size, the same species, and their combined weight with the carrier is less than 20 lbs (9.07 kgs). They must also be able to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably in the carrier.
How to choose the right carrier for two cats on American Airlines?
If they meet the criteria for sharing, opt for a soft-sided, leak-proof, well-ventilated carrier that fits comfortably under the seat in front of you (approx. 18" L x 11" W x 11" H, but confirm with AA for your specific aircraft).
How to prepare my cats for air travel?
Acclimate them to the carrier well in advance, ensure they have ID tags and a microchip, and avoid sedating them. Offer water and a light meal several hours before the flight.
How to get a health certificate for my cats for American Airlines travel?
Schedule a vet visit within 10 days of your travel date (or earlier for international travel, checking destination country requirements). The certificate must state they are healthy for travel and free of contagious diseases.
How to handle the security checkpoint with two cats?
You will need to remove both cats from their carrier, hold them securely in your arms or on a leash, and send the empty carrier through the X-ray machine.
How to manage my cats during the flight?
They must remain inside their carrier, fully zipped/closed, and placed under the seat in front of you for the entire flight. Do not remove them from the carrier.
How to find out if my cat's breed is restricted for cargo travel on American Airlines?
Check the American Airlines Cargo website or contact them directly. Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds like Persians are generally restricted from cargo travel.
How to understand the costs of flying two cats on American Airlines?
If they share one in-cabin carrier, you'll pay one carry-on pet fee (currently $125 USD/CAD per one-way trip). If they travel cargo, the fees are calculated based on weight and distance.
How to ensure my cats' safety and comfort during temperature extremes?
American Airlines Cargo has strict temperature restrictions (45-85°F / 7-29°C). If temperatures fall outside this range, or if you're flying to/from embargoed cities, your cats may not be able to travel via cargo. Always check forecasts and cargo policies carefully.
