If God had wanted cats to fly, He would have given them wings.........

It's better to withhold food and water for several hours before starting to
travel, assuming that you will be traveling for less than a day (as you have
indicated here).  Also, set your cat on his litterbox shortly before you
leave and see if he will use it and empty his bladder.  Have food and water
with you, and offer them to your cat as soon as you are on the ground.  Most
cats will not eat or drink while they are traveling, and placing them in the
carrier opens up the possibility of having it spilled all over your cat.

Have you looked into taking your cat in the cabin with you?  When I traveled
with my cat, I sent him by cargo (and what a word to associate with a living
pet!!!) because that was so many years ago that cats were not permitted in
the cabin.  He was always sick for a few hours afterward.  Once airlines
began to permit cats in the cabin, I traveled that way -- and he was
completely normal the instant we reached home or a motel room and I opened
the carrier.

Not all airlines permit cats in the cabin, but many do.  It's well worth
researching.  You need to make a reservation for you cat because many
airlines only permit one pet per cabin (or possibly one in first class and
one in coach).  Your cat will need to be in a carrier that fits underneath a
seat, so it's important to check the dimensions in advance.  I always tried
to get an aisle seat because it was easier to position the carrier under the
seat without needing to tilt the carrier.  On the other hand, you need to be
aware that there is slightly less width for a carrier under that seat
because of the bar that extends down from the outer edge of the seat.  You
will have to pay the same fee as if you sent the cat in cargo even though
your cat will now replace the piece of carryon luggage that most people put
under the seat in front of them.  *Do not use a seat in the first row*
because you need to have a seat in front of you where you can put the
carrier.  You certainly cannot stow your cat in an overhead compartment!!!

MaryL

Photos of Duffy and Holly:      >'o'<
Duffy:  http://tinyurl.com/cslwf
Holly:  http://tinyurl.com/9t68o
Duffy and Holly together:  http://tinyurl.com/8b47e

I have done this twice in the past year with two different cats, both while
flying USAirways and with one transfer.

Rule number one:  ALWAYS fly with the cat in the cabin if possible - it's
ALWAYS preferable and less stressful to the cat, particularly if there are
any delays.

Rule number two:  Get the cat checked out by a vet within 10 days before
flying, regardless of whether the airline requires it or not.

Rule number three:  DO NOT use any tranquilizer, regardless of what your
friends all say (and mine all suggested it, silly people).

Rule number four:  Go light on food and water before flight, but chances are
the kitty will not want to do either because just putting him/her in the
carrier is enough to put them on edge.

Rule number five:  Make sure your carrier meets all of the airline's size
guidelines.  If you're flying with kitty in the cabin, each airline will
have those measurements available on line.  My experience is that a
soft-sided carrier with lots of openings (for ventilation) is best.  I'm
also particularly fond of carriers that have those pads you can put in the
bottom that will absorb kitty pee, keeping it away from kitty.  They work
great.

Finally, rule number six:  Lots of TLC for kitty when you reach your
destination and allow them time to get over their kitty "jet lag."

Edie - I have traveled a lot with cats, by car and plane.  I agree
with the folks who say to take him in the cabin.  I would not agree
with those who say to withhold food and water for several hours before
the flight, because what with check in and all, he will be going
without water for too long.  Take the food and water away about an
hour before leaving for the airport.  Check with the airline
beforehand and find out about all their regulations for health
certificates and all.  And be aware - whether he goes with you in the
cabin or down below, you will have to take him out of his carrier and
hold him in your arms while the carrier is scanned - get a good grip
on him.

If you do take him in the cabin, I recommend the rolling Sherpa pet
carrier.  good luck.