You decided to fly with your dog or cat for the first time, realizing the logistics feel totally overwhelming. Every airline seems to have a different rule on weight, carrier size, and where your furry companion can actually sit—so you need a master checklist, or nothing.
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Let’s be real. Flying with pets in India is totally doable, but it takes planning. It’s not a last-minute ticket purchase.
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The Breakdown: Cabin vs. Cargo
The thing is, the decision between the cabin and cargo is purely about weight, and the limits are strict.
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In the Cabin: Only small pets, puppies, and kittens are allowed. The rules vary, but they’re tight. Air India recently updated its rule to allow pets up to 10 kg (including the carrier) in the cabin. Akasa Air also permits up to 10 kg in the cabin. Your carrier must be soft-sided and fit right under the seat, those too.
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The Cargo Hold: If your pet is heavier than the cabin limit, they go in the temperature-controlled cargo hold, which is now generally mandatory on IndiGo flights for pets (except service dogs). You must use a hard-sided, sturdy crate that meets IATA standards for this.
And here’s the kicker: Some airlines have breed restrictions. Short-muzzled dogs and cats—the brachycephalic breeds like Pugs or Persian cats—often cannot fly in the cargo hold at all because of breathing risks at high altitudes. You have to check that specific rule before you book, seriously.
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The Paperwork Game
Forget packing treats; the most important thing is the stack of documents.
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Health Certificate: A vet visit is mandatory, and you need a “fitness-to-fly” certificate issued within 10 days of your travel date. No exceptions.
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Records: Updated vaccination records, especially rabies, are crucial. Keep the originals handy.
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The ID: Your pet needs a visible ID tag on their collar with your contact details, those too. Bring recent photos of your pet, just in case.
Day-of-Travel Tips
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Prep: Start familiarizing your pet with their carrier weeks in advance. Let them associate it with good things—treats and toys.
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Exercise, Not Food: Give your pet a good workout on the travel day to burn off anxiety. Only a light meal 4-6 hours before flying. Avoid sedatives! Most vets and airlines actively discourage them due to health risks during the flight.
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Check-in: Get to the airport at least 2-3 hours early. You have extra formalities to complete. If your pet is traveling in the cabin, you’ll have to take them out of the carrier for security screening. Keep a tight leash, obviously.
The thing is, your calm energy makes a massive difference, so stay positive. With all this planning and the right documents, you and your furry companion will be jet-setting pros in no time. It’s an ongoing effort, but the journey is worth it….
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Disclaimer: This article is based on general airline policies and reported guidelines. Specific rules for pet travel, including weight limits and fees, are subject to change and must be verified directly with the chosen airline before booking.
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