Is American Airlines Pet Friendly? What Cat Parents Should Know

Planning a trip with your cat? Choosing the right airline can make a big difference in how smooth (and stress-free) your travel experience will be.

American Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world, and it welcomes cats on many domestic and select international flights. But before you book your ticket, it's important to understand the airline's pet policies, fees, and what to expect on travel day.

Here's everything cat parents should know before flying with American Airlines.

Is American Airlines Pet Friendly?

Overall, yes, American Airlines is considered pet friendly for cats that are small enough to travel in the cabin. Cats can fly under the seat in front of you inside an airline-approved carrier on eligible flights. If your cat is too large to fit comfortably in a carrier beneath the seat, cabin travel won't be an option.

One recent improvement that cat owners appreciate is that your pet carrier no longer counts as your carry-on bag. You can now bring your cat, plus either a standard carry-on or a personal item, making travel much more convenient.

American Airlines Pet Fee

American Airlines charges $150 each way for cats traveling in the cabin. The fee applies per carrier and is paid separately from your airfare.

While $150 is on the higher end compared to some airlines, many travelers appreciate the flexibility of being able to keep their cat nearby throughout the flight.

Carrier Requirements

Your cat must remain inside its carrier for the entire flight.

American Airlines recommends soft-sided carriers because they're easier to fit underneath the seat. The recommended maximum size is 18 x 11 x 11 inches, although hard-sided carriers are also permitted on some aircraft if they meet the airline's size requirements.

Your cat should be able to:

• Stand comfortably

  
  

• Turn around inside the carrier

  
  

• Lie down naturally

If your cat appears cramped or uncomfortable, you may not be allowed to board.

Where Can Cats Fly?

Cats are allowed on many flights within the contiguous United States, as well as select routes to Canada, Mexico, Alaska, Central America, and parts of the Caribbean. Not every destination accepts pets, so it's important to confirm eligibility before booking.

If you're planning international travel, you'll also need to research your destination's vaccination, health certificate, and import requirements.

Comfort for Cats

One advantage of flying with American Airlines is that your cat stays with you in the cabin instead of traveling separately.

That said, air travel can still be stressful for many cats. Airports are noisy, unfamiliar, and full of new sights and smells. Choosing a nonstop flight whenever possible can help reduce stress by minimizing layovers and extra handling.

Before traveling, help your cat become comfortable spending time in their carrier. Placing familiar blankets, favorite toys, or an item that smells like home inside the carrier can also make the journey less intimidating.

Pros of Flying American Airlines With a Cat

American Airlines offers several benefits for traveling cat parents.

• Cats can travel in the cabin with their owner.

  
  

• The airline serves hundreds of destinations, making it easy to find convenient routes.

  
  

• Your pet carrier no longer replaces your carry-on bag.

  
  

• You can add an in-cabin pet to many reservations online before your trip.

Cons to Consider

No airline is perfect, and American Airlines has a few drawbacks.

The $150 pet fee is relatively expensive compared to some competitors. Space for pets is also limited on each flight, so it's important to reserve your cat's spot as early as possible. Certain aircraft and seat types also don't allow pets because of limited under-seat storage.

Additionally, checked pet travel is generally not available for most travelers. Outside of limited exceptions for certain U.S. military and State Department personnel, larger cats that cannot fly in the cabin must travel through American Airlines Cargo instead.

Tips for Flying With Your Cat

A little preparation goes a long way toward making your trip more comfortable. Along with planning your flight, it's worth packing a few travel essentials ahead of time. Having food, water, cleanup supplies, and a portable litter option readily available can make airport delays, layovers, or overnight stays much less stressful. If you're looking for an all-in-one solution, Roaming Whiskers' The Cat's Meow Travel Kit includes many of the essentials cat parents commonly pack, while Travel Gravel offers a lightweight, portable litter that's easy to bring wherever your travels take you.

Here are a few additional tips to help your trip go as smoothly as possible:

• Book nonstop flights whenever possible.

  
  

• Reserve your cat's spot as early as you can since cabin capacity is limited.

  
  

• Practice carrier training several weeks before your trip.

  
  

• Line the carrier with an absorbent pad in case of accidents.

  
  

• Pack a collapsible water bowl, treats, and any necessary paperwork.

  
  

• Arrive at the airport early to allow extra time for check-in.

Final Verdict: Is American Airlines Good for Cats?

For most cat parents, American Airlines is a solid choice.

While the pet fee is higher than some competing airlines, the ability to keep your cat safely in the cabin, combined with the airline's extensive route network and improved carry-on policy, makes it a convenient option for many travelers.

If your cat is comfortable in a carrier and meets the airline's size requirements, American Airlines can provide a safe and relatively straightforward flying experience. Just be sure to book early, review the latest pet requirements before departure, and give your feline friend plenty of time to prepare for the journey.