Published on August 25, 2025
Last updated:
Princess Diana, a grey British Shorthair, rests in her IATA-approved travel carrier before her flight from New York to London.
Quick answer: Most healthy cats and dogs hold it during flights. Give a last bathroom break before check-in, line the carrier/crate with an absorbent pad, and use airport pet-relief areas during layovers. Pets traveling as cargo have no mid-flight access, so prep the crate well and plan connections with enough time. Always follow your airline’s rules and your vet’s advice.
At-a-Glance: What to Expect
- In-cabin (dogs & cats): No in-seat bathroom access; carrier must stay closed. Use an absorbent pad. Hit pet-relief areas before boarding and between flights.
- Checked/manifest cargo (in hold): No access during flight. Use absorbent pad or collapsible ‘litter box’ and spill-resistant water setup; avoid bulky bedding. Choose routes with safe temps and reasonable connection times.
Note: Rules differ by airline. Verify and follow the most current in-cabin and cargo pet policies.
Before You Fly (works for both dogs & cats)
- 4–6 hrs before takeoff: No large meals and minimal water intake (confirm with your vet for puppies/seniors/medical needs).
- Right before the airport: Long dog walk / private litter access for cats.
- At the airport: One last stop after security at a pet-relief area.
- Carrier/crate setup: High-quality pee pad or crate liner, ID label, and required pet documents accessible.
Layovers & Long-Haul Strategies
- Aim for 90+ minutes between flights to reach a relief area without rushing.
- Map pet-relief stations at departure and hub airports.
- For cats, use a quiet pet-relief room where allowed; otherwise keep carrier closed and rely on the liner.
Special Cases (Plan With Your Vet)
- Seniors/diabetics/diuretics: Adjust feeding/med schedules; consider shorter legs.
- Brachycephalic breeds: Extra routing/temperature considerations (safety first).
- Sedation: Generally not recommended for air travel. Ask your vet about non-sedating calming options.
Flight-Day Bathroom Checklist
- Long walk (dogs) / private litter access (cats)
- One last relief stop after security
- Carrier/crate pre-lined with absorbent pad
- Pet-relief areas mapped at connection airport
- Spare pad, wipes, and bags in your personal item
Ollie, a Boston Terrier, settled in his IATA-approved travel crate before his flight from the U.S. to Australia.
FAQs
Do airlines allow litter boxes in the cabin?
Usually not during flight; carriers must stay closed. Use absorbent liners and plan for layover breaks where allowed.
What if my pet has an accident?
Use the absorbent pad. Carry spare pads, wipes, and bags.
Can I give water right before boarding?
Offer small sips to avoid over-hydration just before boarding. For cargo, use airline-approved water setups.
How long can pets hold it?
Healthy adult pets often manage typical flight times. For long itineraries, schedule adequate layovers and consult your vet.
Is sedation okay?
Generally not recommended for air travel as it can affect balance and temperature regulation. Discuss alternatives with your vet.
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Valerie Neyra is the Marketing Coordinator at WorldCare Pet and a proud cat mom to Lucky. She is dedicated to creating resources that simplify domestic & international pet transport. Valerie understands how important pets are to our lives and works to help pet parents feel supported and confident every step of the way during their global moves.