Your Trusted Partner for Domestic and International Cat Travel
Your cat is family, and moving them shouldn’t mean guessing at airline rules, import permits, and vet paperwork. Across The Pond Pets plans and manages the whole journey, whether you’re moving across the country or overseas.
We move cats nationwide. Our own teams operate out of Seattle (SEA-TAC) and Los Angeles (LAX), two of the country’s major pet shipping gateways, and our trusted partner network handles pickups, vet coordination, and departures from cities across the U.S. Every cat gets a dedicated coordinator and a low-stress plan built around their age, health, breed, and temperament.
Cat Transport Services We Offer
Most cat moves use one of these services — or a combination, such as ground pickup to the airport followed by an international flight.
International Cat Travel
Import rules vary by country and the order of steps matters. We manage the full sequence and work with authorities and consulates when needed.
- Microchip, rabies, and titer test timing
- USDA-endorsed health certificates and import permits
- Low-stress routing with the fewest possible layovers
Domestic Cat Air Travel
We choose the right airline and route, then handle the carrier, paperwork, and check-in — including moves from the mainland to Hawaii.
- In-cabin or cargo booking with pet-friendly airlines
- Airline-approved carrier or crate sized to your cat
- Health certificate coordination with your vet
Ground Transportation
Door-to-door ground transport across the continental U.S., plus airport transfers — a calm option for flat-faced breeds and senior cats.
- Home pickup and delivery, or airport runs
- Climate-controlled, GPS-tracked vehicles
- Regular care checks and photo updates
Military family with PCS orders? We plan cat moves around your report date, including PCS moves to Japan, Germany, and Korea. See our military pet transportation services.
Cabin or Cargo: How Your Cat Will Fly
Because most cats are small enough to fit in an under-seat carrier, many can fly in the cabin with you. Whether that’s allowed depends on the airline, the route, and the destination country.
- In the cabinOften possible when the cat and carrier fit under the seat. Airlines charge a fee and limit how many pets can fly on each flight, so book early.
- As cargoRequired by some destination countries — the United Kingdom, for example — and for cats flying without their owner.
- By groundBest for flat-faced breeds, seniors, and cats with health concerns on routes within the continental U.S.
Get your cat used to the carrier early. Leave it open at home for a few weeks with a familiar blanket inside so it becomes a safe space. Don’t sedate your cat for travel unless your veterinarian specifically recommends it — sedation can affect breathing and balance in flight. See our crate guidelines for sizing.
Flat-Faced and Hybrid Cat Breeds
Some cats need a different plan. Flat-faced breeds face airline restrictions because of breathing risks, and some destinations don’t accept hybrid breeds at all.
| Breed group | Common examples | How we move them |
|---|---|---|
| Flat-faced (brachycephalic) cats | Persians, Himalayans, Exotic Shorthairs, and their mixes | In-cabin travel where the airline allows it; ground transport within the continental U.S.; carriers that accept the breed on international routes |
| Hybrid breeds | Bengals, Savannahs, and other wild-cat crosses | We check destination rules first — some places, including Hawaii, prohibit hybrids entirely, while others require generation paperwork |
| Senior or medically fragile cats | Any breed | Vet clearance first, then the shortest, calmest route — usually in-cabin or ground transport |
Rabies-Free Destinations and Returning to the U.S.
Rabies-free destinations such as Hawaii, Japan, and Australia require a rabies antibody blood test and a waiting period for cats, just as they do for dogs. These moves can take six months or more to prepare, so it pays to start early.
Bringing your cat into the U.S.? The CDC’s dog import rules don’t apply to cats. At the federal level, cats must appear healthy on arrival, but many states and airlines require a current rabies vaccination, and some require a health certificate. We confirm the rules for your arrival state and airline before your cat flies.
Why Cat Owners Choose Across The Pond Pets
A plan built around your catDistance, health, and temperament shape the route, carrier, and timing we recommend.
Paperwork done rightImport permits, health certificates, and vaccination records checked and submitted on time.
24/7 supportFrom planning through post-arrival follow-up, our pet travel agents are available for updates and questions.
Help on arrivalWe can help you find pet-friendly lodging at your destination for a smoother transition.
Cat Travel FAQs
Can my cat fly in the cabin with me?
Often, yes. Most cats fit in an under-seat carrier, and many airlines allow them in the cabin for a fee, with limits on how many pets can fly per flight. Some destination countries, such as the United Kingdom, require cats to arrive as cargo. We’ll tell you which option applies to your route.
Should I sedate my cat for the flight?
Generally, no. Sedation can affect a cat’s breathing and balance during the flight, and many airlines won’t accept sedated pets. Only use medication your veterinarian specifically prescribes for travel. Getting your cat used to the carrier weeks in advance makes the biggest difference.
Can flat-faced cats like Persians fly?
Many airlines restrict Persians, Himalayans, Exotic Shorthairs, and other flat-faced cats from cargo. In-cabin travel is often still possible, and ground transport is a safe option within the continental U.S. We’ll find a route that works for your cat.
How far in advance should I plan my cat’s move?
Domestic moves can often be arranged in a few weeks. International moves vary by country, and rabies-free destinations such as Hawaii, Japan, and Australia can take six months or more because of required blood tests and waiting periods. Contact us as soon as you know your move date.
What does my cat need to enter or return to the U.S.?
The CDC’s dog import rules don’t apply to cats. Federally, cats must appear healthy on arrival, but many states and airlines require a current rabies vaccination and some require a health certificate. We check the requirements for your arrival state and airline.
Get a Quote for Cat Transportation
Choose the service that fits your cat’s trip — or schedule a consultation if you’re not sure.
Full Agent Support
For cats traveling alone. We handle the full logistics and documentation from start to finish.
Request Full Agent SupportVeterinarian Document Assistance
Flying with your cat in the cabin or cargo? We make sure every required document is correct and on time.
Get Document AssistanceMilitary Cats: PCS & Deployment
For active duty service members relocating or deploying. Priority scheduling around your orders.
Military Pet ShippingStart Your Cat’s Journey Today
Book a consultation with our pet travel experts and get a clear plan for your cat’s trip.
Schedule a Pet Travel Consultation