🐈 The guide to transporting your cat or kitten:
🔎 Find the best transport option for your cat:
⭐ In summary:
Transporting a cat safely requires preparation adapted to its size, age, and mode of transport. Weloca helps you understand everything.
In brief:
| Situation | Quick solution |
|---|---|
| By car | Rigid crate or secure carrier, ventilate the cabin, regular breaks |
| By train (SNCF) | Carrier ≤ 45×30×25 cm, ≤ 6 kg, animal ticket (€7) |
| By plane (cabin) | Carrier ≤ 8 kg (cat included), airline allowing animals |
| Anxious cat | Calming supplement 48h before the journey |
The best accessories for transporting your cat
To ensure your cat's comfort and safety during travel, some accessories are essential:
- Approved transport carrier for plane or train journeys
- Rigid crate with front opening for long car journeys
- Harness + anti-escape leash for safe breaks
- GPS tracker in case of escape
- Rolling cart for walking transport
- Cozy cave or hiding spot for very anxious cats
- Absorbent mat to maintain hygiene in the carrier
Different solutions for transporting your cat
Each mode of transport has its advantages and limitations. Here's an overview of the possible options:
Professional animal transport services
| Service | Covered area | Specificity |
|---|---|---|
| France Express (ANI) | National | Certified for live animals |
| Affaire de Pattes | Île-de-France | Personalized follow-up |
| Mapets | National | Network of approved transporters |
| Transcanin | France + Europe | Equipped vehicles |
| Transport France Animaux | National | Insurance included |
| Air Transport Animal | International | Manages plane + customs |
Other means of transport
- Taxis or VTCs (Uber Pet, Allocab...): practical and flexible, but book in advance
- Public transport: allowed if the cat is in a closed carrier
- Car-sharing: depends on the driver, remember to ask for their agreement in advance
Choosing the best option for your situation
Before leaving, ask yourself the right questions:
- How long is the journey?
- Is my cat very stressed or rather calm?
- Can I accompany it or do I need to delegate transport?
- Could the outside temperature be a problem?
- What is my budget?
Based on your answers, you can decide between a professional service, secure car-sharing, or personal transport.
Criteria to check for your cat's well-being
| Element | Why it's important |
|---|---|
| Adapted cage | Safety, comfort, breathing |
| Water available | Prevent dehydration |
| Spaced feeding | Reduces risk of vomiting |
| Stable temperature | Cats' sensitivity to variations |
| Relaxation before departure | Less stress at the start of the journey |
| Health check | Detect a problem before leaving |
| Natural calming | Gentle preventive supplement → Weloca formula |
What regulations must be observed?
- Closed carrier mandatory for all transport
- Rabies vaccine required for travel within the EU
- European pet passport essential for international travel
- Some countries prohibit animal imports: check before you leave
- Each transport company imposes its own rules (dimensions, weight, booking, etc.)
Traveling with your cat via SNCF
| Condition | Detail |
|---|---|
| Max carrier size | 45 x 30 x 25 cm |
| Max weight | 6 kg |
| Animal fare | €7 |
| If > 6 kg | Full fare + constraints (muzzle, leash...) |
Traveling with your cat via Air France
| In cabin | In hold |
|---|---|
| ≤ 8 kg (carrier included) | > 8 kg or carrier too large |
| Approved carrier required | Rigid crate mandatory |
| Reservation mandatory | Reservation mandatory |
| Health certificate recommended | Same |
Our practical advice
By car
- Secure the crate with the seat belt
- Never leave the cat loose in the cabin
- Maintain a stable temperature, without drafts
- Take a break every 2 to 3 hours, without letting the cat out
By train
- Use an airy, stable, and comfortable carrier
- Place an absorbent pad at the bottom
- Feed at least 4 hours before departure
- Avoid handling the carrier during the journey
By plane
- Check your airline's exact conditions
- Do not feed 4 hours before the flight
- Place an absorbent mat at the bottom of the carrier
- Anticipate stress: natural supplement recommended
By boat
- Isolate the cage from wind or spray
- Add a soft blanket to reassure it
- In case of seasickness, consult your vet in advance
Transport according to cat's size, age, breed
| Profile | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Kitten | Warm carrier, short journey |
| Senior cat | Vet visit, maximum comfort |
| Maine Coon | XL carrier, check airline cabin standards |
| Sphynx | Provide an insulating layer |
| Fearful cat | Acclimate early, use calming products |
FAQ
Can my cat travel in the cabin? Yes, up to 8 kg (carrier included), if the airline allows it.
Do I need a passport to travel with my cat? Yes in Europe, with a rabies vaccine.
Should I take it out of the carrier during the journey? No, unless explicitly agreed or for medical need.
My cat meows constantly in the car, what can I do? Use pheromones or a natural anti-stress supplement 2 days before the journey.
Can I take two cats in the same carrier? Not recommended. Prefer one carrier per cat.