OK, this is rather a general question. In June, my husband and I are moving to the Bahamas and we are bringing my two babies - also known as cats. The felines are experienced road travellers but have never flown anywhere before and it will be a lonnnnggg trip ( Vancouver to Florida ). Now I used to be a veterinary assistant so I know all the right drugs to give them to make them relax but I'm worried about their comfort and safety. I've seen people bring small dogs in those little carrier bags on the plane with them as "carry-on" luggage, has anyone heard of this being done with cats? Or has anyone flown their cats over long distances before?

My main concern with having them ride below is the lack of heat and the loud noise not to mention the possibility that they might get misplaced - I've heard the horror stories!

Advise and suggestions will be much appreciated.
Thank you

I've flown with my cats both in the cabin and with the cats in the cargo hold. I believe you are allowed 1 animal per person (with a maximum of 3 in the cabin) and the carrying case must fit under the seat in front of you. Check with the airline about their specific policy. The cats went from Seattle to Paraguay (24 hour travel time) in the hold and survived - although they were very unhappy by the time they were freed. The airplanes have a pressurized, climatized compartment in the hold for animals and/or fragile items. I made sure their carrier was well marked with addresses, the flight numbers, and contact phone numbers. I do think it would be less stressful to have them in the plane, unless they spent the flight yowling. I wouldn't have done it for a short period of time (on an earlier 7 month trip the cats stayed with family) but since I was moving I took them along.

I flew my cat cargo once and he got really sick. I also have a friend who works for an airline and they don't recommend flying pets in cargo. Bring them in the cabin with you if you can.