Are Cats Allowed On Southwest Airlines? | Pet Travel Rules

Yes, cats are allowed on Southwest Airlines flights, but only as carry-on pets in the cabin, subject to specific rules, fees, and availability.

Traveling with a beloved pet can add a layer of planning to any trip, and understanding airline policies is key. For those flying with Southwest and hoping to bring their feline companion along, there are clear guidelines to follow to ensure a smooth journey for everyone.

Southwest’s Pet Policy: The Essentials

Southwest Airlines permits small vaccinated domestic cats and dogs to travel in the aircraft cabin. These pets must remain in an approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. This policy applies to travel within the 48 contiguous United States and to Puerto Rico.

There are strict limits on the number of pets allowed per flight, making early booking essential. A pet fare applies to each one-way trip, and this fee is non-refundable. Pets cannot travel in checked baggage or as cargo on Southwest flights.

Carrier Requirements for Your Feline Friend

The pet carrier is a critical component of your cat’s travel experience. It must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. Southwest specifies maximum dimensions for both soft-sided and hard-sided carriers.

• Soft-sided carriers: These are often preferred for their flexibility. They must not exceed 18.5 inches (length) x 13.5 inches (width) x 9.5 inches (height).
• Hard-sided carriers: These have slightly different dimensions. They must not exceed 17.5 inches (length) x 10 inches (width) x 9.5 inches (height).
• The carrier must be leak-proof and have adequate ventilation from at least two sides.
• Your cat must be able to stand up and turn around comfortably inside the carrier.
• Only one pet is allowed per carrier, and only one pet carrier is allowed per paying customer.

Booking Your Cat’s Ticket: What You Need to Know

Securing a spot for your cat on a Southwest flight requires a specific booking process. Unlike human tickets, pet reservations cannot be made online.

1. Call Reservations: You must contact Southwest Airlines Reservations directly to book your pet’s travel. This allows agents to check pet availability for your desired flight.
2. Limited Availability: Southwest limits the number of pets to six per flight in the cabin. This restriction helps ensure comfort and safety for all passengers.
3. Early Booking: Due to limited spots, it is highly advisable to book your cat’s reservation as soon as your own travel plans are firm. Pet spots fill up quickly, especially on popular routes.
4. Pet Fare: A separate pet fare is charged per one-way trip. This fee is subject to change, so confirm the current amount when you call to book.

Day of Travel: Airport & In-Flight Experience

The day you travel with your cat requires careful attention to airport procedures and in-flight rules. Being prepared helps reduce stress for both you and your pet.

• Check-in: You must check in at the Southwest Airlines ticket counter. Pets cannot be checked in at curbside or self-service kiosks. A Southwest agent will verify your pet’s carrier meets requirements and process the pet fare.
• Security Screening: During the security screening process, you will need to remove your cat from its carrier. The carrier will go through the X-ray machine, while you carry your cat through the metal detector. According to the TSA, pets must be carried or walked through the screening area and should never be sent through the X-ray machine.
• Boarding: Your pet carrier counts as either your one carry-on bag or your one personal item. Once on board, the carrier must be stowed under the seat in front of you for the entire flight.
• In-Flight: Your cat must remain inside its carrier with the carrier fully closed and stowed under the seat for the duration of the flight, including during boarding and deplaning. Removing your cat from its carrier during the flight is not permitted.

Important Restrictions and Considerations

Southwest’s pet policy includes specific limitations beyond just carrier size and fees. These are important to understand before making your travel plans.

• Age Requirements: Pets must be at least eight weeks old to travel on Southwest Airlines. They must also be fully weaned.
• No Checked Pets: Southwest does not transport pets in checked baggage or as cargo. All pets must travel in the cabin with their owner.
• Domestic Flights Only: Pet travel is restricted to domestic flights within the 48 contiguous United States and to Puerto Rico. Pets are not allowed on international flights or flights to/from Hawaii.
• Flight Connections: If your itinerary includes a connecting flight, your pet must meet the same requirements for each segment of the journey.
• Behavior: Your cat must be well-behaved and not disruptive. Any pet exhibiting aggressive behavior or causing a disturbance may be denied boarding.

Preparing Your Cat for Air Travel

Making the journey as stress-free as possible for your cat involves preparation well before the travel day. A calm pet leads to a calmer owner.

• Veterinary Consultation: A visit to your veterinarian is recommended before travel. Discuss any concerns about your cat’s health, anxiety, or motion sickness. Ensure all vaccinations are current. Some states or destinations may have specific health certificate requirements, so check these well in advance.
• Carrier Acclimation: Introduce the carrier to your cat at home weeks before your flight. Leave it open with treats or a favorite blanket inside to create a positive association. This helps reduce anxiety on travel day.
• Food and Water: Feed your cat a light meal a few hours before the flight. Avoid giving a large meal right before departure. Offer small amounts of water, but be mindful of potential accidents in the carrier. Some vets suggest withholding food for a few hours before travel to prevent nausea.
• Exercise: Allow your cat to exercise and use the litter box before you leave for the airport. This helps them settle more comfortably in the carrier.
• Identification: Ensure your cat wears a collar with up-to-date identification tags. Attach a tag to the carrier with your name, address, and phone number.

Service Animals on Southwest Flights

It is important to distinguish between pets and service animals, as their regulations differ significantly. Southwest Airlines recognizes service animals as defined by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT).

Service animals are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability. These animals are not subject to pet fees or the pet carrier requirements. Passengers traveling with a service animal must complete a DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form prior to travel. Additional documentation may be required for flights over eight hours. The Southwest Airlines website provides detailed information regarding service animal policies and required forms.