Before taking your cat on a plane, you'll need to take the necessary steps to be fully prepared. Many necessities for air travel can be addressed long before you leave the ground and you should get these preparations underway seven to eight months before you travel. Contact your vet well in advance, as the country you are going to may need specific vaccinations or certificates.

Here are some tips to make sure your cat enjoys the journey as much as possible.

1. The Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) helps you travel with your pet in Europe. For further information on PETS read our article on Pet Passports.
2. At the time of booking, make sure the airline knows you want to bring along a pet and ask for their advice. The IATA website also provides information.
3. Have you familiarised yourself with airline regulations? For instance animals must travel in the cargo area in a secure, airline-approved crate.
4. Double-check airline policies, which may vary from company to company. Cover yourself by documenting all conversations.
5. For the flight, put a small luggage tag on your cat's collar displaying the temporary residence information for your destination.
6. Make sure that the information on your cat's ticket corresponds exactly with the information on yours. Inspect every tag attached to your cat's container and ensure it is marked with both your cat's information and your flight information. Include a food and water pack with the container.
7. Attach a feeding schedule for a 24-hour period and any other important information to the travel carrier in case your pet doesn't make it to the final destination for some reason or other. Don't worry: airline attendants tend to make a point of taking good care of animals.
8. Arrive at the airport in good time having made sure that your cat is relieved and, as far as possible, comfortable.
9. Visit your vet well in advance as there may be specific vaccination requirements or certificates for the country you are visiting. Some require a health certificate 24-48 hours prior to travel.

For further advice about pet travel, contact:

Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Website: www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/quarantine/index.htm
PETS Helpline: 0870 241 1710

Or see the legislative provisions contained in the Welfare of Animals (Transport) Order 1997 and guidance at www.defra.gov.uk