Holidays aren’t just for humans. Whether it’s a weekend in the Cotswolds or a beachside villa in Spain, more and more pet owners are packing for two. But when it comes to flying with your four-legged companion, not every cat or dog can sit sky-high by your side.
So, which breeds can make the cut for cabin travel? Here’s what you need to know before booking that ticket.
Cabin class for cats
Let’s start with our feline friends. The good news? Most cat breeds are welcome on board — as long as they fit within the airline’s size and weight limits. Typically, that means your cat (including its carrier) must not exceed 8kg.
But there’s a catch: cats with brachycephalic syndrome – that’s flat-faced breeds like Persians or Exotic Shorthairs – are not permitted in the cabin (or even the hold) due to breathing risks at high altitude.
That aside, many smaller breeds are perfectly suited for in-flight travel:
- Abyssinian – Sleek and agile, males rarely top 5kg
- Havana Brown – That glossy chocolate coat comes with a lightweight frame, around 4kg
- Somali – The long-haired cousin of the Abyssinian, equally travel-sized
- Burmese – A compact 6kg bundle from Thailand
- Singapura – Practically pocket-sized at just 2–3kg, and endlessly charming
As long as your cat is healthy, vaccinated, and not prone to anxiety, it might just enjoy jet-setting more than you’d expect.
Pooches that can fly
For dogs, the rules are similar — under 8kg (including their carrier), calm in temperament, and most importantly, not brachycephalic. That means no Shih Tzus, Pugs, or Bulldogs in the cabin or cargo hold, even if they’re tiny.
Still, there’s a cheerful list of cabin-ready canines who fit the bill nicely:
- Maltese – Fluffy, elegant, and perfectly pint-sized
- Jack Russell – Feisty, fearless, and surprisingly compact
- Pomeranian – Like travelling with a soft toy (albeit a lively one)
- Toy Fox Terrier – Small but watchful, and loves to be close to their human
- Chihuahua – A frequent flyer favourite, thanks to those handbag-ready dimensions
- Miniature Pinscher – Think Doberman, but travel-sized
- Dachshund (Teckel) – Long in body, short in fuss
- Yorkshire Terrier – Originally bred to catch rats, now just happy to catch flights
A few ground rules before take-off
Regardless of species, all pets travelling in the cabin must:
- Stay in an approved transport bag (no wandering the aisles)
- Be fully vaccinated
- Hold a separate travel ticket
- Avoid eating just before flying to minimise digestive issues
- Refrain from doing their business mid-flight (yes, it’s expected)
And no – sedation is strictly off-limits. It’s dangerous at altitude and airlines won’t allow it.
In the end…
Flying with pets is possible – even pleasant – when you choose the right companion and prepare well. Whether it’s a Singapura nestled at your feet or a sleepy Yorkie snoozing under the seat, some furry friends are just born travellers. Just don’t forget the treats – for them and for you.