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What Options are Available to Ship a Cat Across the Country?<\/b><\/h2>\n
There are various options available to transport your cat across the country. We\u2019ll go through each choice to determine which one is the best for you.<\/p>\n
Transporting Your Cat via Air Travel<\/b><\/h3>\n
Air travel can be the fastest way to transport a cat, but it’s also more logistically challenging and taxing on your feline friend.<\/p>\n
Requirements for a Cat in the Cabin and Cargo Hold<\/b><\/h4>\n
Because cats are small, they can fly in the cabin in a carrier placed under the seat in front of you. Airline policy allows only one pet per passenger and two pets per flight.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re taking your cat on a long flight or you want your cat to move around, it might need a litter box. If that\u2019s the case, you may consider flying your cat in the cargo hold<\/a> in a larger carrier that can accommodate a litter box.\u00a0Before you buy a cargo ticket, remember that being placed in the cargo hold can be a traumatic experience for your cat.<\/p>\n One important note for air and train travel is the restriction of snub-nose cats like British shorthairs, Himalayans or Persians in the cargo area (but not in the cabin).\u00a0They are forbidden because the travel could be extremely damaging to their physical health \u2014 they are very sensitive to temperatures, transport stress and have respiratory issues that can be harmful and go unnoticed in the cargo hold.<\/p>\n Train travel is not common in the United States anymore. But if you want to try out one of the oldest forms of public transit, it’s possible to transport a cat by train. Amtrak allows cat transportation, but it comes with several requirements and costs:<\/p>\n This method of transportation is definitely the easiest because there are no requirements besides the documentation needed when you arrive at your final destination. However, it can be overwhelming to plan the logistics involved with car transportation. You also need to decide whether you want to drive yourself or hire a professional pet transporter.<\/p>\n There are variables you need to keep in mind when driving across the country \u2014 gas, accommodation and food, as well as the bathroom and snack stops you must take. Cats aren\u2019t very adaptable, so you may need to take precautions when taking those potty breaks (as they can escape or claw you when in the carrier). Giving your cat treats<\/a> while in the carrier can help reduce stress as well as providing them with a blanket or something cozy and familiar.<\/p>\n So what do you need to prepare when shipping a cat<\/a> across the country? You\u2019ll need some important things, such as specific equipment and essential documents. Being prepared and having them handy right before travel is always the best idea.<\/p>\n You will need to have the proper vaccination records and health certificates filled out by a veterinarian, which needs to be filled out and signed at least 10 days from the travel date.<\/p>\n You should have equipment for your cat that is essential to travel: A carrier that is comfortable for your cat, a travel litter box, your cat\u2019s favorite toys and travel food and water bowls.<\/p>\n Now that we\u2019ve listed the essential equipment needed for the journey with your cat, the next question that might come to mind is what products should you buy?<\/p>\n You can always go online and do some research, but let\u2019s take a look at some essential must haves, like a cat carrier<\/a>, that can come in handy for the long journey:<\/p>\n Maskeyon Airline Approved Pet Carrier<\/a><\/p>\n Morpilot Cat Carrier with Locking Safety Zippers, Foldable Bowl<\/a><\/p>\n Prutapet Large Cat Carrier for Car Traveling with Collapsible Litter Box and Bowl<\/a><\/p>\n WINSEE Collapsible Cat Bowl with Foldable Expandable Cup Dish with No Spill Non-Skid Silicone Mat for Traveling<\/a><\/p>\n Petmate No Spill Bowl<\/a><\/p>\n petisfam Portable Cat Travel Litter Box<\/a><\/p>\n SmartyKat (3 Count) Skitter Critters Catnip Cat Toys <\/a><\/p>\n LUCKITTY Cat Plastic Ball Toys with Jingle Bell<\/a><\/p>\n Cats have an advantage over dogs because of their size. They can ride in the cabin with their owners since they can fit under the seat. Make sure you call in advance because airlines will only allow one or two pets per flight inside the cabin. Your pet\u2019s carrier \u2014 a cost roughly running from $25 to $75 \u2014 should be small enough that your cat can fit inside and underneath the seat in front of you. The one-way amount for airlines like United<\/a>, Delta<\/a>, and American<\/a> sits between $95 and $125.<\/p>\n For longer journeys or if you want your cat to have more space and be able to use a litter box, the cargo hold is the only place your cat can go. You\u2019ll need a special crate that can cost an estimated $100-$200. The cost of transporting your kitty in the cargo hold can range from $500-$1000. The exact costs will be determined at the time of booking.<\/p>\n Good news and bad news come with transporting your cat on Amtrak trains. The good news: it only costs $25. That\u2019s almost nothing! The other good news is that because 99% of cats are under 20 lbs, they will be allowed. The bad news: it is impossible to have a litter box handy for when your cat needs to go.<\/p>\n The costs of driving include several variables. The price of gas can be subject to change depending on outside factors. For driving across the country, prepare to spend at least $250 in gas. For accommodation, estimate roughly five to six nights for a total of $900. Food will cost around $500 for two people.<\/p>\n The total estimate for driving cross country will cost you about $1,650. Keep in mind that when you arrive at your destination, you may also have to pay for temporary parking.<\/p>\n Note:<\/i><\/strong><\/p>\n The cost estimates are based on: When arriving at your destination, make sure you have the proper vaccinations and certificates. You can find a list of pet requirements by state on the USDA APHIS website<\/a>.<\/p>\n Researching online is the best way to find a reliable pet transporter. Read as many reviews as possible to get the best insight into the company. Consider these tips to find the right one for you and your cat:<\/p>\n After looking at all your options \u2014 airplane, traditional pet transporter, car and train \u2014 consider using a pet transport marketplace like CitizenShipper. Our platform offers many advantages over traditional pet transporters.<\/p>\n We pride ourselves in making pet shipping safe, seamless and stress-free. Your cherished cat will be in good hands with the verified and qualified drivers on our platform. They provide frequent updates for your peace of mind and convenience, which includes video and phone calls. You\u2019ll also get up to $1,000 in pet protection coverage<\/a> and 24\/7 TeleVet access through our partner Vetster\u00a0just in case you need it. These two benefits will help provide you with calmness and peace of mind.<\/p>\n Because drivers compete for your business, we can save you up to 60-70% compared to traditional shipping companies!<\/p>\n There are several options for shipping a cat across the country. You can use a car, a train, a plane, a traditional pet transportation company or a two-way marketplace. Whatever you decide can have a massive effect on your cat. Sure, transporting a cat is easier if you fly because they\u2019re small, but there could be hiccups and requirements to fulfill.<\/p>\n When you\u2019re shipping a cat across the country, taking a car can take days and a lot of money on food, gas, and accommodation. The hassle of driving can be overwhelming for you and your cat because of things like a litterbox and the personalities of cats that can go into play.<\/p>\n The alternative is booking a driver through CitizenShipper. The drivers on CitizenShipper understand your cat means everything to you and will ensure proper, loving care during the trek. CitizenShipper also offers great added benefits<\/a> for you, which will definitely simplify things for you.<\/p>\n Shipping your cat long-distance doesn\u2019t have to be stressful or overwhelming. By trusting drivers on CitizenShipper to transport your beloved feline friend<\/a>, you will have peace of mind and comfort knowing your cat is in the absolute best of hands.<\/p>\nCat Cargo Crate Requirements<\/b><\/h4>\n
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Transporting Your Cat on a Train<\/b><\/h3>\n
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Transporting Your Cat by Car<\/b><\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\nWhat Do You Need to Ship Your Cat?<\/b><\/h2>\n
Equipment Recommendations for Shipping a Cat Across the Country<\/b><\/h2>\n
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What Determines the Cost of Shipping a Cat Across the Country?<\/b><\/h2>\n
Costs Associated with Air Travel<\/b><\/h3>\n
Costs Associated with Train Travel<\/b><\/h3>\n
Costs Associated with Driving<\/b><\/h3>\n
\n*Using a 12-tank car (total = $47 per tank) and filling up your tank every 400-500 miles.
\n*Driving eight hours per day.
\n*Eating three meals per day for two people.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/citizenshipper.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/darwin-vegher-IAc1x02D9K0-unsplash-1.jpg\")
<\/p>\nHow to Find a Safe and Reliable Pet Transporter?<\/b><\/h2>\n
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Using CitizenShipper for Shipping a Cat Across the Country<\/b><\/h2>\n
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Wrapping It Up!<\/b><\/h2>\n