Preparing Your Pet for Plane Travel FAQs
Moving abroad with your pet is an exciting new chapter – but it does come with some big questions. At Travel Vet in Staines-upon-Thames, we specialise in pet export and one-way travel for emigration, and we’re here to guide you through every step of preparing your pet for plane travel, from feeding schedules to crate requirements. Below are our expertly answered FAQs to help you prepare with confidence.
Contact us to discuss your pet’s travel requirements today.
Should my pet eat before flying?
We generally recommend feeding your pet no less than 6 hours before travel. This allows time for digestion and a toilet break before they go into their travel crate.
Why? A lighter stomach helps reduce the risk of nausea, vomiting, and accidents in the crate – especially important for long flights. A small, balanced meal earlier in the day is ideal. Water should be available up to and during the flight, using a non-spill bowl or water bottle fixed to the crate.
How long before flying should my pet’s last meal be?
Aim to feed your dog or cat 6 to 8 hours before check-in time, especially if they’ll be flying in the hold. For early-morning flights, a meal the night before is usually the best option. Always give your pet a chance to go to the toilet just before you leave for the airport.
Tip: For nervous pets or those prone to motion sickness, our vets in Staines-upon-Thames might recommend skipping the final meal or providing a calming supplement – speak to us ahead of time.
What kind of crate does my pet need for plane travel?
For pets travelling in the cargo hold, airlines require a crate that meets IATA (International Air Transport Association) specifications. The crate must be:
- Rigid and well-ventilated on at least three sides
- Large enough for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably
- Securely fastened, with a leak-proof base
- Made of solid plastic, fibreglass, or metal (no wire or collapsible crates)
Labelled crates: Your pet’s crate must also display labels with ‘Live Animal’ stickers, orientation arrows, and your contact details.
Can I buy my own travel crate?
Yes, but it’s essential to ensure it complies fully with IATA regulations. Not all crates sold online meet these standards, so always check measurements, ventilation, door locking, and structure carefully – or let us supply and fit a compliant crate as part of your pet travel package.
How do I know the correct size for my pet’s travel crate?
Use this simple formula to measure your dog or cat:
- A = length from nose to base of tail
- B = height from floor to top of head (or ears if erect)
- C = width at widest point (usually shoulders)
A good crate size will be:
- Length = A + 10cm
- Height = B + 10cm
- Width = C × 2
Crates that are too small may be rejected at check-in, while oversized ones may be uncomfortable in transit. We’re happy to double-check your measurements for you.
Will my pet travel in the cabin or cargo hold?
For international flights from the UK, pets almost always travel in the hold unless they’re registered assistance animals. Rest assured, the pet cargo hold is pressurised, temperature-controlled, and dimly lit to keep your pet calm and safe.
Some destinations do allow cats and small dogs to travel in the cabin now – particularly on private charters or certain European routes.
It is however illegal for pets to enter the UK in the cabin though unless they have fulfilled the requirements for an assistance animal or guide dog. This would need to be arranged directly with the border control post in the UK.
To give you an example, if your pet is allowed to travel in the cabin on a flight to France, returning by road may be the only option in some cases.
We’ll advise based on your route and airline.
Should I sedate my pet for air travel?
In general, sedation is not recommended for flying. Sedatives can interfere with your pet’s ability to balance, regulate body temperature, or handle changes in cabin pressure. Most airlines will not accept pets who have been sedated.
Instead, ask us about natural calming options or behavioural prep strategies if your pet is anxious or has never flown before.
What else can I do to help my pet prepare for the flight?
Here are our top tips:
- Crate training: Let your pet explore and relax in the crate weeks before travel
- Walks and play: Offer physical and mental exercise the day before the flight
- Familiar scents: Place an unwashed t-shirt or favourite blanket in the crate
- Toilet breaks: Always give your pet a chance to relieve themselves before drop-off
We can also create a personalised travel plan tailored to your pet’s needs, temperament, and medical history.
Can Travel Vet help me plan and manage everything?
Absolutely. From paperwork and rabies vaccinations to crate advice and airline bookings, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Whether you’re relocating to Australia, the USA, Europe, or beyond, we make sure your pet’s journey is handled with expert care.
Contact us to discuss your pet’s travel requirements today and start your pet’s emigration journey with confidence.
