For single cat owners, transporting multiple cats can be quite tricky and when that time comes, I’m sure we’ve all asked ourselves the question:
Can you have two cats in one travel crate?
If two kittens can travel together, adult cats should be kept in separate transport boxes. Some cats might share a large carrier during car trips, but this could lead to feline aggression, and most airlines don’t allow multiple cats to be carried in one carrier.
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Can you carry two cats in one carrier?
It’s no secret that our kittens are territorial animals by nature. These territorial behaviors stem from feelings of insecurity, which is why they are known as control freaks.
Most cats like predictability and routine, and even the smallest changes, like changing their litter box location, can be enough to stress them out.
So you can imagine that traveling can have the same stressful effect, and carrying two cats often means the stress will be doubled as they not only lose control of their routine, but also their territory.
Cats also like to ask for things and they rarely like to share, take for example their cat trees and their litter boxes. For them to be happy, we usually need to have two sets of these things, otherwise we risk triggering their competitiveness.
Likewise, sharing a carrier can bring out aggressive behaviors, and they can lash out at each other. Plus, the stress of moving, not to mention being in a small space together, makes it easy to redirect their aggression on each other.
For some cats, this aggressive reaction may also occur because they need to reclaim some of this new territory, which, to be honest, is too restrictive for two adult cats to share. Aside from aggression caused by fear or territorial competition, if one of your cats is sick or has a medical condition, cats with medical conditions may show signs of aggression.
It’s clear that sharing a carrier between two cats isn’t always the safest option, partly because of the carrier itself. You’ll need to find a carrier designed to hold the weight of two cats, otherwise the plastic handle, zippers, or snaps won’t hold and will break under the pressure.
Two fighting cats are also a danger to each other, but also to the carrier. In a soft carrier, they risk tearing the fabric, while in a rigid carrier, their claws can get caught in the plastic or metal bars of the doors.
Of course, while it’s best for each cat to travel alone, not all travel conditions are the same, so let’s take a closer look at the two most common forms of transportation and see if you can have two cats in one crate. transport.
Can you have two cats in a carrier when traveling by car?
Most cat parents will tell you that when it comes to their feline companions, there are no simple answers. All cats are individuals and can react in unexpected ways, especially in stressful situations like a car trip.
But even during car trips, things can vary depending on the type of trip you take with your two cats. So let’s take a closer look at whether it is possible to share a transport cage.
Visit to the vet
My cats rarely get the chance to travel except for a short trip to the vet, and even on those rare occasions I make sure to keep them both in separate travel crates.
In my opinion, it is much more comfortable to carry two medium-sized carriers or to load each carrier one by one. As my cats will be individually checked, getting one cat out of its own carrier while the other is securely locked is also more convenient for me, the cats and of course their vet.
My oldest kitten is also quite shy, and he has a top-loading carrier, so the vet doesn’t always have to take him out. This arrangement would not have been possible if they shared the same transport cage.
I understand that united cats can soothe each other on the way to the vet’s office, but they could end up attacking each other on the way back. And if your cats showed signs of aggression when they traveled in the same carrier, then on the next trip they might repeat the same behavior, the aggression might escalate, or they will be reluctant to travel.
While I’m sure your vet will also be happier treating each kitten individually, they might make an exception for kittens or a mother and her kittens. But I still think the best thing to do is call them to see what they prefer.
If the short trip isn’t a trip to the vet, then keeping your cats in a single carrier might be more feasible, but a short trip might be delayed if your cats start fighting. You may have to stop to see if it’s possible to calm them down, or you may have to choose between going home or continuing the short journey but risking the long-term relationship with your cat.
Long distance trips
While visits to the vet and occasional short trips pose their own set of challenges if you want to transport both of your cats in one crate, long-distance travel is quite different.
Most cats can handle being in their own carrier for a long time if their needs are met. But to transport two cats together, you’ll need a much larger crate or cage, no matter how long the trip.
Your two cats must have enough space to move around, stretch and lie down. So on a longer trip they won’t feel completely confined. Litter mates and cats that have been raised together and cats that have been conditioned to enjoy or peacefully tolerate travel could eventually travel together.
But the problem with long trips , even with a bigger carrier, is that your cats might have more chances to fight each other, or the frustration will build up over time and one of them will attack the other cat.
Long-distance travel can also lead to motion sickness and your cat could vomit or have a litter box accident, which can also lead to further frustration and then a fight. But even without a fight, cleaning two cats will be much more difficult.
Just as you shouldn’t let your cats loose in your car, letting them share a carrier will increase the risk of your cats misbehaving and, more importantly, they can distract you as a driver.
I get anxious when I hear my cats banging or hissing at each other when we’re at home, so I can’t imagine my stress level if that happened in the car. You will have to take multiple pauses to calm the two cats down, and if the fight is intense you will have to separate them. This means that a cat will have to be loose in the car, which is very dangerous and in some places even illegal.
Can you put two cats in one crate when traveling by plane?
The biggest advantage of traveling by car with your cats is the flexibility. You can take breaks whenever you and your cats need to eat, drink and pee.
You can also place the carrier in a way that suits your cats and keeps them safe. And if keeping two cats in a carrier isn’t the best choice, keeping it in a car can work.
With airplanes, on the other hand, you don’t have the same flexibility and you have to follow certain regulations. Each airline has clear guidelines on whether pets can travel in the same carrier while on the plane. Also, your cat’s carrier should be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you, which is impossible with a carrier that can fit two adult cats.
Otherwise, your cats will have to travel in the hold of the plane, which you don’t want to do. Not only is it dangerous, but you will not be able to regulate their behavior and a possible fight.
Different airlines may have different rules, so I advise you to call the airline you plan to travel with and discuss these regulations before you even buy the tickets.
You will most likely need to reconsider your original plan to keep your two cats in one carrier, but you will also need to check whether the individual carriers you plan to purchase comply with airline regulations.
How to choose a carrier for two cats?
The best and safest option when traveling with two cats is to keep them in two separate carriers.
Each cat reacts differently to travel, some turn into a little ball of fur and stay quiet until you reach your destination, while others start pacing and crying. There are also many intermediate reactions, and when two cats are together in this stressful environment, they can become angry, and even hurt each other.
If, of course, you’re confident in your cat’s relationship, or at least want to try out a double carrier before you travel, there are a few things to consider.
First, you need to measure your cats. A cat carrier should be a comfortable space for your kitty to stand, sit, lie down, and turn around. This means both of your cats need to have that kind of mobility while being in the same carrier.
You will also need to look for a carrier strong enough to hold both cats. Your own strength should also be taken into account because carrying a large carrier with two cats is not an easy task, especially if you have back problems.
Ventilation is also important since both cats will be sharing the same air source. There should also be enough space for their food and water bowls, as well as a litter box.
Finally, you’ll need to make sure the carrier can be placed and secured securely in your car, and if you’re flying, you’ll need to make sure the airline approves two cats in a carrier. , and a basket of this size.
If you’re willing to look for a carrier that has all of these features and want to test your cats’ willingness to travel together without necessarily investing in a large carrier you might not be using, there is another option.
During your first attempts, you can keep the two baby carriers attached to each other but with the separation. Once you feel your cats are relaxed, that there is no hissing or agitated meowing, you can open the divider and let them roam. If you hear hissing or banging, you can always put the divider back on and enjoy the rest of your ride.
How to travel by car a long distance with several cats?
It’s not always easy to picture traveling with our house cats as a stress-free adventure, but cats can be very lively travel companions if we take the time to create a positive experience for them.
So how do you create a positive experience for your cat, let alone two individual kittens?
Choosing a transport cage for several cats
First, you need to choose the right carrier. But even if you’re determined to research different transportation options for road trips, you need to consider the size of your cats, as well as the extra space needed for their food and water bowls, and for a trip. longer, a litter.
It’s best to buy the right size cat carrier. If your cat dreads getting into the tightness of a carrier, consider buying an oversized, top-loading carrier so your cat doesn’t have to squeeze through a narrow doorway” .
Of course, their hunger, thirst and pee breaks are a priority during long distance trips, and less so on short trips. So travel longevity is definitely something to keep in mind when it comes to the travel crate and the comfort of your cats.
Learning the transport cage
Another crucial part of a happy journey is conditioning your cats to accept their carrier(s) as a safe space.
One of the ways to do this is to use positive reinforcement, and this needs to start well before the day of the trip. You can motivate your cats with treats and toys to get them into their carrier, but first you need to make the carrier an attractive place.
I turned their carriers into beds, placing soft blankets inside. Besides being comfy beds for my cats to sleep in, they also make a great hiding place when they need to be alone.
Once you feel your cats are no longer afraid of their carrier, you can close the door with them inside and see how they react. Use treats to calm them down, and once you notice they are not hissing or meowing, you can carry the carrier around the house.
The next step is to get them in the car. You don’t have to drive, just strap them in the back seat and they get used to the process.
When you feel your cats are relaxed enough inside the car, you can take them for a few rides to get them used to this part of the trip. During these test rides you will find out if your cats can travel in the same carrier. If you notice them fighting, you’ll know the best solution is to separate them.
Finding the right travel conditions will help your cats feel less stressed during the upcoming trip.
Make the trip comfortable
It’s important to note that cats like to hang out in comfortable places. So you need to make the carrier a comfortable space by adding their favorite blankets and toys that they can snuggle up with during the flight or ride. I usually give them catnip-infused toys that they can rub against and forget about the fact that they’re away from home.
If you’re driving, be sure to take enough breaks to check on your cats’ health, their need for water, a pee break, or your attention. This is especially important if your cats have to spend the night in their carrier.
As I mentioned before, traveling by car has certain advantages, such as choosing the right temperature and playing soothing music for cats. It’s also easier to keep an eye on your cats.
Final Thoughts
Traveling with our feline companions is a tricky situation to manage, and figuring out which carriers work best is one of them. Trying to fit two cats in the same carrier can be uncomfortable, stressful, and downright dangerous.
Just like us, some cats can find comfort in each other’s company, while others take their stress and frustration out on others. So you need to be 100% sure that your cats can share a carrier, that they can handle each other’s company even on stressful days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I place two cats in one large carrier when traveling?
A: Yes, you can place two average-sized cats together in the same carrier when traveling, provided that the carrier is designed for two pets and offers enough room for both cats to be comfortable during the journey.
Q: Is it okay to put two cats in one pet carrier for air travel?
A: Yes, most airlines allow two cats to travel in the same carrier when flying, as long as the carrier is designed for two cats and meets the airline’s size and safety requirements for in-cabin pet travel.
Q: What are the requirements for traveling with two cats in one carrier by air?
A: When traveling by air with two cats in one carrier, make sure the carrier is approved by the airline for housing two pets, provides enough space for both cats, and complies with the airline’s guidelines for pet travel, including size and ventilation requirements.
Q: Can two cats travel together in the same pet carrier on a car ride?
A: Yes, you can transport two cats together in one large carrier during a car ride, as long as the carrier is spacious enough to accommodate both cats and secure them safely for the journey.
Q: How can I ensure that two cats are comfortable when traveling together in a single carrier?
A: To ensure that two cats are comfortable when traveling together in the same carrier, choose a carrier that offers enough room for both cats to move around, lie down, and stand up without feeling cramped during the journey.
Q: Are there any specific pet carriers designed for two cats to travel together?
A: Yes, there are pet carriers specifically designed for two cats to travel together, providing enough space and ventilation for both cats while ensuring they are secure and comfortable during the trip.
Q: Are there any weight restrictions for placing two cats in one carrier during air travel?
A: Most airlines have weight restrictions for pets traveling in the same carrier, so ensure that the combined weight of the two cats does not exceed the airline’s specified limit for pets traveling together in one carrier.
Q: Can two live puppies or kittens travel in one carrier during air travel?
A: Yes, airlines generally permit two live puppies or kittens to travel together in a single carrier if the carrier is designed for two pets and complies with the airline’s requirements for in-cabin pet travel.
Q: What precautions should I take when placing two cats in one carrier for air travel?
A: When placing two cats in one carrier for air travel, ensure that they are feline friends and are comfortable sharing the same enclosure, and that the carrier meets the airline’s safety standards and guidelines for pets traveling together in one carrier.
Q: Are there any restrictions on allowing two cats to travel together as cargo?
A: Yes, some airlines may have restrictions on allowing two cats to travel together as cargo, so it is essential to check the airline’s policies and guidelines for pets traveling as cargo to ensure compliance when transporting two cats.
Q: Can I place two cats in the same carrier for travel?
A: Yes, it is possible to transport two average-sized cats in one large carrier, provided they are comfortable and have enough room to move around.
Q: Are there specific pet carriers designed for two cats to travel together?
A: Yes, there are carriers designed for two pets, such as two live puppies or kittens, or a large pet carrier designed to accommodate two cats.
Q: Can two cats travel in-cabin together on an airplane?
A: Most airlines allow two pets (cats or dogs) to travel in the same carrier in the cabin, as long as they are compatible and the carrier meets the airline’s size requirements.
Q: Can two cats travel as cargo in the same carrier?
A: Some airlines may allow cats to travel as cargo in one large carrier, but it’s essential to check with the specific airline’s policy and guidelines for transporting pets as cargo.
Q: How can I ensure that my cats are comfortable when traveling together in one carrier?
A: To ensure your cats are comfortable, provide ample room, ventilation, and familiar bedding inside the carrier. Additionally, it’s important to acclimate your cats to the carrier before the trip.
Q: What are the weight and size restrictions for placing two cats in one carrier for air travel?
A: Most airlines have specific weight and size restrictions for pet carriers, so it’s crucial to check the requirements for traveling with two cats in the same carrier.
Q: Can I transport two cats together in the same carrier on a car ride?
A: Yes, it is possible to transport two cats in the same carrier during a car ride, ensuring the carrier is secure and the cats are comfortable for the journey.
Q: Are there any specific guidelines for placing two cats in one carrier for air travel?
A: Some airlines have specific guidelines for transporting two cats in one carrier, including the type of carrier and the need for both cats to be feline friends or compatible with each other.
Q: Can I place two cats in one carrier for travel if they are puppies or kittens?
A: Yes, if the cats are puppies or kittens and are within the age range specified by the airline (usually from 8 weeks to 6 months), they may be allowed to travel together in one carrier.
Q: Do I need to get a specific carrier designed for two cats, or can I use one large carrier to transport both cats?
A: You can use either a large carrier designed for two pets or one large carrier that provides enough space and ventilation for both cats to travel comfortably together.
