✈️ Can My Cool Cat Fly Southwest? A Deep Dive into the LUV of Furry Flyers! 🐈
Listen up, all you cat parents out there! Are you trying to plan that epic domestic getaway, maybe hit up a cool city or finally see that cousin who lives, like, a million miles away? And the million-dollar question haunting your travel dreams is: "Can my fabulous feline fly with me on Southwest Airlines?" You're not alone, buddy. This is the hot topic on the message boards, the digital water cooler chat for travelers with tiny, four-legged dictators—I mean, pets.
The short answer, the one that’s going to make you wanna do a happy dance? Yes! Small, vaccinated domestic cats (and dogs!) are totally welcome in the cabin on domestic Southwest flights. But hold your horses—or should I say, hold your cat carrier—because like everything in life, there are rules, man. Southwest is all about that "Wanna Get Away" vibe, but you gotta play by their script, or your trip could turn into a total bummer.
This isn't just about showing up with Fluffy in your arms. This is a mission, people, and we're going to break down the whole shebang, step-by-step, so you can strut through the airport like a seasoned travel pro. Get ready to take notes, because we're diving deep!
Step 1: Know the Score - Are You Even Eligible for the Mile-High Meow Club?
Before you even start packing that teeny tiny suitcase for your kitty, you need to confirm you're in the right ball game. Southwest is super specific about who gets to join the fun.
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| Can Cats Fly On Southwest Airlines |
1.1 Domestic Flights Only, Folks!
Biggie Rule Alert: Southwest only allows pets in the cabin on domestic flights. No international travel, and that includes flights to or from Hawaii. If your itinerary has a layover where you hop onto an international flight, the cat is a no-go for the whole trip. Keep it stateside, my friend.
1.2 Species and Age Check
They only accept small, vaccinated domestic cats and dogs. Leave the emotional support boa constrictor at home, sorry!
Your little buddy must be at least eight (8) weeks old to travel. A baby kitten is just too tiny for the travel hustle, and they need their shots!
Tip: A slow skim is better than a rushed read.
1.3 The Grand Total of Six
Space is super limited. Southwest caps the fun at a maximum of six pet carriers per scheduled flight. This is first-come, first-served, so you absolutely, positively must make a reservation for your cat. Don't wait until the airport, or you might get the dreaded "hard pass."
Step 2: The Carrier Conundrum - Getting the Right Kitty Condo
This is where many a traveler gets tripped up. Your cat's travel digs aren't just a cozy place to chill; they're a specific piece of regulated carry-on luggage. This is a hill you must not die on!
2.1 The Dimensions That Matter
Your pet carrier counts as either your personal item or your carry-on bag. You can only have one or the other, plus your carrier (which is now your third item, effectively).
The carrier must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. This is non-negotiable, and they will check!
Maximum Size Requirements: The carrier dimensions can be a little tricky, but the absolute max is usually 18.5" (L) x 13.5" (W) x 9.5" (H) for a non-Southwest branded carrier. Southwest sells their own branded carrier (usually around 17" L x 9.5" H x 11" W), but if you're using your own, be a stickler for those numbers. Soft-sided carriers are your best bet because they have a little flex to make that under-seat fit.
2.2 Comfort and Safety Specs
Your carrier must be leak-proof and well-ventilated. No one wants a surprise on the plane.
The most important rule for your kitty: The cat must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably within the carrier. If your cat looks like a sardine in a can, they're going to get denied at the gate. That's just the pits.
You can have up to two pets of the same species in a single carrier, provided they both fit comfortably and meet the stand-up/turn-around rule.
Step 3: Making the Reservation and Paying the Piper - Don't Be a Cheapskate!
Flying your cat ain't free. Southwest has a dedicated "Pet Fare," and you gotta pay up!
QuickTip: Scroll back if you lose track.
3.1 Ring-a-Ding-Ding!
You cannot book a pet reservation online. You have to call Southwest Airlines directly to add your cat to your existing flight reservation. Do this ASAP after booking your own ticket to ensure one of the six spots is still available. Seriously, don't sleep on this.
3.2 The Pet Fare
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As of my last check, the pet fare is typically $125 per pet carrier, each way. Yes, that’s $125 for the flight there, and another $125 for the flight back. Ouch!
The fare is paid at the airport ticket counter on the day of travel, and only with a credit card (no gift cards or flight credit, typically).
Good News: The pet fare is usually refundable if you cancel your flight or if the flight gets canceled. That's a nice little safety blanket.
Step 4: Airport Day Game Plan - Keeping Your Cool
It's the big day! Your cat is probably sensing the chaos, so your job is to be the zen master.
4.1 Check-In Counter First!
Do not try to check in at a self-service kiosk or go straight to the gate. You must go to the full-service airport ticket counter to check in your pet and pay the Pet Fare. They'll confirm your reservation and make sure the carrier is up to code.
4.2 Security Screening Shenanigans
Tip: The details are worth a second look.
The TSA process is a whole thing. You will be asked to remove your cat from the carrier and hold them while the empty carrier goes through the X-ray machine. Pro-Tip: Use a harness and leash! Cats are notorious escape artists when stressed. Don't risk your cat making a run for it and causing an international incident.
4.3 Gate and Onboard Rules (The Lockdown)
From the moment you are in the gate area, through boarding, for the entire flight, and during deplaning, your cat must remain secured in the carrier. No "just a quick peek" or "they're being so good, can I hold them?" Zip it up, and keep it zipped.
You won't be allowed to sit in an exit row or any seat without under-seat stowage (like a bulkhead).
Step 5: Post-Landing Chill - You Made It!
Once you land and are safely away from the aircraft, you can finally retrieve your slightly bewildered, but safe, furry traveler. Find a designated pet relief area (Southwest has them at all their served locations) for a well-deserved stretch and potty break. You did it! You successfully navigated the Southwest pet maze. Go grab a slice of pizza—you've earned it!
FAQ Questions and Answers
How do I make a pet reservation on Southwest Airlines?
You need to call Southwest Airlines directly to reserve a spot for your cat or dog. They do not allow pet reservations to be made online, and since there is a limit of six pet carriers per flight, you should call as soon as your own flight is booked.
What is the fee to fly a cat on Southwest Airlines?
QuickTip: Slow down when you hit numbers or data.
The standard pet fare is generally $125 per pet carrier, each way, and this fee must be paid at the airport ticket counter on the day of travel using a credit card.
Can my cat get out of its carrier during the flight?
Absolutely not. Your cat must remain fully secured inside its approved carrier at all times while in the gate area, during boarding, for the entire flight, and while deplaning. Failure to follow this rule can result in being denied transportation.
What size carrier does Southwest Airlines require for a cat?
The carrier must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. Maximum dimensions for a non-Southwest branded carrier are typically 18.5” (L) x 13.5” (W) x 9.5” (H). Soft-sided carriers are often recommended for their flexibility.
Can I fly with an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) cat on Southwest?
Following changes in US Department of Transportation rules, Southwest no longer recognizes ESAs as service animals. An emotional support cat must now travel as a standard pet, adhering to the pet policy, including the required carrier, fee, and flight limitations.
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