Maine Coon Airlines: Travel Tips
Traveling with a new kitten can be stressful but, it doesn’t have to be. Bringing your Maine Coon kitten home should be an exciting adventure and flying can be a convenient way to make it happen! Traveling with a young cat does require some careful planning to ensure a smooth journey for both you and your kitten.
When possible, we try our best to prepare our Maine Coon kittens as much as possible for their flight home. Here are some things that you need to know about flying with your Maine Coon kitten.
Airline-Approved Soft-Sided Carrier (For In-Cabin Travel)
First things first, make arrangements for your kitten! You’ll need a spacious, airline approved pet carrier that ensures their safety & comfort. The carrier must fit under the seat, be sure to check airline regulations. (Usually 18L x 11W x 11H). We recommend mesh side panels for plenty of airflow, you don’t want the kitten to get too hot. Interior safety clips for a harness and locking zippers are also a good idea.
If possible, let your Maine Coon kitten get acquainted to their carrier prior to the flight. We always recommend that families send a carrier and harness a few weeks prior to their flight. During the weeks leading up to their flight, we can make sure that the kitten is comfortable in the carrier & harness. This will take away some of the potential stress on the kitten. It’s important that they feel safe and secure in the carrier.
This is Ernest, known as Maroon here from our Swifties litter. The photo on the left is the day we received his carrier and started “training” him to be comfortable in it. The photo on the right is from his family now, in the same carrier. He loves his carrier and travels very often!
Preparing for the Flight
Travel time is extremely important. Be sure to consider the total travel time, including potential layovers. Long flights can be stressful for kittens, so if possible, aim for direct flights or those with the shortest layovers.
When we have kittens flying home, we generally arrive to the airport about an hour prior to boarding. Since we live near a smaller airport, security lines are not very long. By arriving about an hour before, the kitten will not be sitting in the airport for several hours prior to their flight. We try to make sure they use their litter prior to leaving home and will take up their food a few hours before the flight. We also line their carrier with potty pads and send extra, as well as wipes, baggies, and paper towels in case of an accident.
Purchasing Tickets
When booking your tickets, check the airline’s policy regarding pets. Most airlines have specific regulations regarding the number of pets allowed in the cabin. It’s best to reserve your kitten’s spot early. Be sure to inform the airline that you’ll be traveling with a kitten, this will help them prepare for the journey. They will also let you know of any documentation that might be needed for your Maine Coon kitten to fly.
At the Airport
Airport security can be a stressful experience for both you and your kitten. To minimize stress, you should ask for a private room during the security check. This will allow for you to remove the kitten from their carrier without the chaos of a busy airport. It is a good way to keep your kitten calm and secure.
We always recommend asking for a private room. This will minimize the stress on everyone. Especially if your kitten was to get on the ground, they are secure in a room and will be caught safely. When going through security, never let the kitten walk on the ground. Airports can be very dirty with exposure to germs and hazards. Instead, be sure to hold your kitten securely or place them in their carrier until you are through the screening process.
During the Flight
To keep your kitten calm, be sure to leave them in their carrier. You can speak softly to them and offer treats if they are comfortable. If they seem anxious, try to reassure them with gentle petting.
We always try to send the kittens with a catnip toy along with their “go home” bag. You can also use calming spray in their carrier.
This is Pippins, known here as Tupac from our OG Rappers litter. I took this photo at the airport while we were chatting with his owner. He also had a great flight, completely chill & relaxed!
After the Flight
Once you land, take the suggested two week minimum to allow your Maine Coon kitten time to adjust to their new surroundings. A quiet space will help them adjust after the excitement of travel.
Two weeks is so important. Be sure to still give the kitten plenty of attention, just give them time to adjust to their new world. It’s a very big change for them and it does take time for them to feel comfortable in a new home.
Safe Travels!
Flying with your new Maine Coon kitten can be a very rewarding experience if you prepare well. By considering travel time, securing the correct tickets and carrier, and taking the time during airport security, you can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey for both of you. Safe travels and enjoy your new furry companion!
