Pet Policy Overview
Cathay Pacific does not accept any pets in the passenger cabin — all cats and dogs must travel as checked baggage or as cargo via Cathay Cargo. Based at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), the airline is a key carrier for pet transport across the Asia-Pacific region. Hong Kong's AFCD (Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department) operates a dedicated animal inspection facility at HKG, though transit through Hong Kong with a pet requires advance planning due to the territory's permit requirements.
Key Details
Pet Fee
Charged as excess baggage by weight/zone
Pro Tip
Book pet travel through Cathay Pacific's reservations team at least 48 hours before departure. The airline requires a rigid IATA-compliant crate and all destination-country documentation at check-in. If you are transiting through Hong Kong, be aware that even transit animals may require AFCD permits. Direct routing is always preferable when travelling with a cat via Cathay Pacific to avoid the complexity of Hong Kong transit permits.
Restrictions
No cabin pets. Brachycephalic breeds face restrictions and may be refused. Pets are not accepted on certain aircraft types or ultra-long-haul routes. Hong Kong requires specific import permits from AFCD for all arriving animals, including those in transit. Pregnant animals are not accepted. The airline may refuse live animal transport during extreme heat or cold.