Travel with pet

It seems to vary but is something you should be prepared for. If your cat is skittish, you might want to get him/her used to a simple harness before the trip which you can remove after the "inspection" and when putting the cat back in the cage for the flight.

Any particular reason why you're sending your cat cargo rather than in-cabin? Just curious.

She is to large and heavy to fit in a carrier under the seat in the cabin. She has to be able to stand up freely in the carrier. A cabin carrier is to small for her. She also hates being in a carrier so it is hard to get her in it. That is why I was wondering if we have to take her out when checking in. She is 16 years old.

How about putting her favorite cat food in the carrier and feeding her in it for several days prior to your flight. Leave door open so she can come and go to her food and associate the carrier with a positive experience. Catnip anyone?

I know people who have traveled recently with 14-16 lb cats that fit just fine in the flexible carriers that fit under the seat. (the flexible leather or cloth type carriers, not the hard case type carrier).

Your cat is 16 years old? Keep in mind that there would be less stress in the cabin with a familiar face and voice of their owner.

I agree with the effort to put food or catnip near or inside the carrier prior to travel. I am sure this cat is a special member of your family and travel in cabin would be best option (if possible).

I do not know about the rules related to taking cat out of the carrier, but be prepared by holding scruf or using a harness.

Wish you the best on traveling with your cat.

when i brought my 17lb cat with me from the states the only place i had to take him out was in miami. he was in a soft sided carrier that fit under the seat. when we changed in p.r. we did not have to re take him out again

You can also try putting your scent in the carrier by leaving a article of clothing you've worn previously and feeding in the carrier.

I have to agree that having kitty with you would be much less stressful for your cat than subjecting it to being handled and trundeled from point a to z via cargo with all the sights, sounds and movements that involves, especially for a senior kitty.