Pet Policy Overview
United Airlines is widely considered one of the most accessible US carriers for in-cabin cat travel, with a relatively straightforward booking process and generous size allowances. The airline's former PetSafe cargo program has been permanently suspended for civilian passengers, so only in-cabin travel is available for the general public. United uniquely allows passengers to bring up to two pets per person if a second adjacent seat is purchased, making it the only major US carrier with this option.
Key Details
Pet Fee
$150 each way (+$150 layover fee for 4hr+ connections)
Pro Tip
United limits cabin pets to around 7 per flight depending on aircraft type, and you must call reservations to book — online pet booking is not available. A notable detail: if your connection is longer than 4 hours domestically or 24 hours internationally, United charges a separate $150 layover fee per pet. This can significantly increase costs on multi-leg itineraries. Unlike Delta, United issues a separate confirmation number for your pet, which must be presented at check-in.
Restrictions
United bans cabin pets on flights to/from Australia, UK, New Zealand, South Africa, UAE, Hong Kong, Hawaii, Guam, Iceland, Ireland, Norway, Sweden, Jamaica, Barbados, Panama, Philippines, Cuba, and several Pacific island nations. Brachycephalic cat breeds (Burmese, Exotic Shorthair, Himalayan, Persian) are restricted from cargo travel. No pets in Premium Plus, Polaris Business, exit rows, or bulkhead seats. Cats must be at least 8 weeks old domestically and 16 weeks for international travel.