Guide to Reducing Stress for Pets During Air Travel [Updated for 2026]

Last Updated: August 1, 2026

“Will my pet be able to handle a long flight?”—This is a concern that every pet owner facing an upcoming flight with their pet has likely felt at least once. In this article, we’ll share specific tips for reducing stress during your pet’s air travel—from pre-departure preparations and choosing the right carrier to in-flight care and post-arrival follow-up—based on our practical experience in international pet transport.

Table of Contents

Who This Article Is For

This article is,Preparations and Care on the Day of Travel to Reduce Stress for Pets During Air TravelThis explanation focuses specifically on these points.
A comprehensive overview covering everything from travel preparations to entry and departure proceduresIf you want to know about,The Complete Guide to Traveling Abroad with Your Petfor more details.
Safety Measures in the Cabin and Cargo Hold, and Assessing Passenger Fitness to Fly,A Guide to Safety Measures for FlyingThis is explained in detail there.
Support for Adjusting to a New Environment After Moving Abroad,Guide to Managing Stress When Moving Abroadfor more information.

What Kind of Environmental Changes Do Pets Experience When Traveling by Air?

When traveling by plane, pets face several environmental changes that differ from their usual surroundings. The four main changes are the noise inside the cabin, fluctuations in air pressure, temperature and humidity, and the time spent in an unfamiliar crate. Understanding the characteristics of each of these changes will make it easier to take preventive measures in advance.

Major Environmental Changes and Characteristics

Noises on the Plane: At first, pets may react sensitively to unusual sounds, such as engine noise or in-flight announcements. However, most pets gradually get used to these sounds once they become consistent and eventually calm down.
Fluctuations in Atmospheric Pressure: Just like humans, dogs may experience a sensation of pressure in their ears during takeoff and landing. Giving them a small treat may help them equalize the pressure naturally through chewing and saliva production.
Temperature and Humidity Conditions: Although the cargo hold is climate-controlled, conditions may vary depending on the season and the aircraft, so please be mindful of the outside temperature when boarding.
Staying in a New Space: Your pet will be spending more time in a crate or carrier. Having a towel that smells like you or a favorite toy will help them relax.

Dogs and cats are animals that adapt well to changes in their environment. Even if they’re nervous at first, it’s not uncommon for them to fall asleep due to the vibrations of the flight. Careful preparation beforehand can make a big difference in how comfortable they feel on the day of the flight.

How to Feel More at Ease When Preparing for a Flight

The key to a successful flight lies in advance preparation. Start working on the three key areas—choosing and getting your pet accustomed to the crate, conducting health checks and verifying necessary documents, and adjusting your pet’s diet, hydration, and exercise routine on the day of travel—in a step-by-step manner several months before departure.

How Do You Choose the Right Travel Crate for Your Pet?

When choosing a crate—which serves as your pet’s “home” during travel—be sure to select one that offers both comfort and safety. Since standards for crate size and ventilation vary by airline, it’s important to check the official website of the airline you plan to use in advance. As a reference when reviewing these standards, the IATA (International Air Transport Association) has published guidelines on the transport of live animals (Live Animals Regulations) (Reference:IATA Live Animals Regulations(Verified in July 2026).

Guidelines for Choosing a Crate

It's spacious enough for your pet to stand up and turn around inside.
The design ensures proper ventilation and allows the door to be securely locked.
It is sturdily built and features a leak-proof design at the bottom.
There's a space where you can store your pet's favorite towels and toys

The 4 Steps to Crate Training

Getting your pet used to the crate before departure will make things much easier on the day of travel. To help your pet recognize it as a “safe place,” let’s gradually get them used to it by following the steps below.

Leave the door open

Leave the crate open in the room and place your pet’s favorite toys and treats inside. If you put their favorite bed in there as well, they’ll often go inside on their own.

Close the door for just a short while

Once they start going in on their own, practice closing the door for just a short time.

Extend the time spent

Gradually increase the amount of time they spend in the crate so they can learn to relax while inside it.

Getting Used to Riding in a Car

If possible, put the dog in its crate and take it for a short drive to help it get used to the motion.

It’s important to help your pet see the crate not as a “scary place,” but as a “safe and comfortable space of their own.” If you’re prepared in this way, your pet will feel much more at ease on the day of the flight. For detailed guidance on choosing a transport crate,How to Choose the Right Crate for Air Travel with Your PetThis is explained there.

Health check and preparation of necessary documents

For peace of mind, it’s a good idea to have your pet undergo a health checkup at a veterinary clinic before departure. Tell the veterinarian about your plans to travel by plane and have them check your pet’s heart and respiratory health, vaccination status, and whether your pet is in good enough health for the trip. Pets with pre-existing conditions or brachycephalic breeds may require special care. Regarding travel with brachycephalic breeds,Can Snub-Nosed Breeds Fly? Airline-by-Airline Acceptance Policies & What You Can DoThis is explained in detail there.

The required documents vary depending on your destination. While the process is relatively straightforward for domestic flights, international flights generally require you to submit documents such as a health certificate, proof of vaccination, and proof of microchipping. Be sure to check the official information from the local authorities well in advance to confirm the exact requirements for your specific destination.

From JapanDogs & CatsIf you wish to export an animal, you must apply to the Animal Quarantine Station for an export inspection. Applications must be submitted by theAt least 14 days beforeThis is done through NACCS (animal quarantine-related operations), and the actual inspection takes place at departureWithin 10 daysI will take it (Source:Animal quarantine office "to export dogs and cats."(Verified in July 2026).Dogs & CatsIf you plan to return to Japan, entry from areas other than the designated regions (Iceland, Australia, New Zealand, the Fiji Islands, Hawaii, and Guam) requires additional conditions, such as a rabies antibody titer of 0.5 IU/mL or higher and a waiting period of at least 180 days after the blood draw. Since the procedures for entry from designated regions differ from these requirements, be sure to confirm which category applies to you as soon as possible (Source:Animal Quarantine Service: "Procedures for Importing Dogs and Cats"(Verified in July 2026).The procedures required for small animals such as rabbits, ferrets, and birds differ from those for dogs and cats.For detailed requirements for each type of animal, please refer to the Animal Quarantine Station’sOfficial SitePlease be sure to check this. For an overview of the procedures for both departure and return,The Complete Guide to Traveling Abroad with Your PetI've summarized them here.

Don't forget to check each airline's pet policies

JAL:International Flight Pet Travel Assistance ／ Domestic Flight Pet Services
ANA:Information on Traveling with Pets on International Flights ／ Information on Traveling with Pets on Domestic Flights
Conditions such as crate size, maximum number of pets allowed, and fees vary by airline, so be sure to check the official website before making a reservation.

Pre-Flight Preparation Schedule (Guideline)

Preparing well in advance will ensure that everything goes smoothly on the day of travel. The following is a general guideline for your preparation schedule. Please adjust the details based on your pet’s condition and your destination.

Timing	For domestic flights	For international flights
2 to 3 months ago	Check the airline's pet policies; purchase a crate and start getting your pet used to it	Check the entry requirements for your destination, have your pet microchipped, start researching necessary vaccinations, and purchase a crate and begin getting your pet used to it
1 month ago	Health checkup by a veterinarian, finalizing flight reservations, and continuing crate training	Begin preparing health certificates, conduct necessary examinations as needed, and continue crate training
1–2 weeks ago	Purchasing travel essentials, testing relaxation products, and making final confirmations with the airline	Final check of required documents, purchasing travel essentials, and testing relaxation items
day before departure	Final health check, final check of luggage, plenty of exercise, and regular meals	Final health check, final review of all documents, final check of luggage
The day of departure	A light meal, plenty of water, one last bathroom break, and placing comfort items in the crate	A light meal, staying well-hydrated, using the restroom one last time, and keeping all documents on hand

How should you manage your meals, hydration, and exercise on the day of departure?

We recommend having a lighter-than-usual meal a few hours before departure. Make sure your pet stays well-hydrated, but limit fluid intake to small amounts right before departure. If you let your pet get plenty of exercise beforehand, they’ll be more likely to stay calm during the flight.

A few hours before departure: Feed your pet a light meal—about half the usual amount.

1–2 hours before departure: Make sure they drink plenty of fluids

Just Before Departure: Calm Yourself with a Little Water and a Small Snack

Before Check-In: Schedule a Final Restroom Break

Tips: Making the Most of Frozen Water

It’s helpful to put frozen water in your pet’s crate. Since it’s solid when you leave, it won’t spill, and it will gradually melt during the flight, allowing your pet to hydrate whenever needed. This is especially useful when traveling during hot weather.

If you're unsure how to proceed with your preparations, please feel free to contact us first.

Please let us know your destination and planned departure date. We will inform you of the preparation time required and the first steps you should take.

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How can you make your pet comfortable on a flight?

Whether your pet is comfortable during the flight depends on whether you bring it into the cabin or check it in the cargo hold—the precautions you take will vary accordingly. In either case, the key is to create a safe and comfortable environment for your pet.

What should you keep in mind when bringing a guest to your room?

Many major Japanese airlines, such as JAL and ANA, require pets to be checked as cargo on international flights; they cannot be brought into the cabin (e.g.,JAL International Flight Pet Travel Assistance, ,ANA International Flight Pet Information). Some airlines allow you to bring them into the cabin; in such cases, it is common to place them in a soft-sided carry-on bag and store them under your seat. However, since policies regarding whether this is permitted, as well as the size and number of pets allowed, vary significantly by airline, be sure to check the official website of the airline you plan to use before making a reservation.

Tips for Flying with Airlines That Allow Carry-On Baggage

Choose a carry-on case that matches the airline's regulation size.
Choose items that are breathable, lightweight, and durable
Place a thin pet sheet or absorbent pad inside.
Include your pet's favorite toy or blanket.

During the flight, speaking to your pet gently from time to time or gently petting them through their carrier can help them feel secure. Be sure to be considerate of other passengers, and having quiet toys or treats on hand can help distract them.

During takeoff and landing: Give your dog a small treat to stimulate saliva production and help with natural ear equalization.

During stable flight: Provide a sense of security by speaking to the bird from time to time and staying within its line of sight

Long-haul flights: After checking with the flight attendants, make time to give your child a small amount of water

Considerations for checking in the cargo compartment

When traveling with medium- to large-sized dogs in the cargo hold, advance preparation is essential in addition to making the crate comfortable. The following items can be helpful.

pheromone preparation: Using products such as Adaptil for dogs or Feliway for cats in the crate can help your pet relax.

Safety Best: Some pets feel more secure in vests that gently wrap around their bodies.

A piece of cloth with the owner's scent on it: If you put in a well-worn T-shirt or something similar, you'll be enveloped in a familiar scent.

Educational Toys: Filling a Kong or similar toy with treats can help distract them.

For peace of mind, be sure to clearly label the crate with your pet’s name and age, your contact information, the destination and flight number, and brief care instructions. Many airlines have staff trained in handling animals who will take special care of your pet. Many owners report that if their pets are thoroughly accustomed to the crate beforehand, they remain calm even after arrival.

Special seasonal considerations

Measures for Summer and Winter

Summer: Choose an early morning or late evening flight to avoid the hottest part of the day. Make sure to stay well-hydrated, and place frozen water in the crate to help keep it cool.
During the winter: Place a blanket with good heat retention inside the crate. Keep the dog in a warm indoor area before boarding, and avoid exposing it to the cold until just before departure.

By taking season-specific precautions, you can reduce the stress of traveling throughout the year. Since flight schedules may change right before your trip, please check the official website of your airline for the latest flight information.

Things You Can Do to Reduce Anxiety During a Flight

There are two ways to ease anxiety during a flight: using relaxation aids and working with flight attendants and airline staff. It’s natural to worry when your pet is out of sight, but many pets adapt to their surroundings better than their owners realize.

Products to Help You Relax

There are also natural products available to help your pet relax. If you’re considering using them, we recommend consulting your veterinarian beforehand and trying them out once before the flight.

Pheromone preparations (for dogs and cats)

Peace of Mind Best Body Wrap

Treats containing herbal ingredients such as chamomile (after consulting with your veterinarian)

Natural supplements containing L-theanine and other ingredients (after consulting with a veterinarian)

A piece of cloth with the owner's scent on it

✕Use of Strong Sedatives — Unless a veterinarian determines that it is medically necessary, this is not considered suitable for air transport. Please avoid using it based on your own judgment.

✕Repurposing Human Medications — This may not be safe for pets. Be sure to consult your veterinarian.

✕A new supplement I've never tried before — Be sure to test it out once beforehand so that you don't have to use it for the first time on the day of your flight.

✕Foods High in Sugar and Hard to Digest — Since this can cause you to feel unwell while traveling, please avoid doing so before and after your flight.

Products with strong sedative effects are generally considered unsuitable for air travel. Choose a product that promotes natural calm, and be sure to consult your veterinarian before use.

Cooperation with Flight Attendants and Airline Staff

If you’re checking your pet into the cargo hold, letting the check-in counter or a flight attendant know before boarding may ensure that special care is taken during loading and handling. However, since the cargo holds on most passenger aircraft are off-limits to crew members during flight, flight attendants cannot directly check on your pet while the plane is in the air. If you’re taking a long-haul flight with a layover, you may be able to visit your pet at the layover destination, but since policies vary by airline, be sure to check in advance.

Relieve Travel Fatigue with Post-Arrival Care

Once your pet arrives safely, prioritize a gentle reunion and plenty of rest. While individual differences exist, most pets return to their normal selves within a few days.

A peaceful reunion

If your dog is excited, move to a quiet place, secure the leash firmly, and then open the crate. Don’t pick your dog up immediately after letting it out; first, let it stretch its legs and take a look around.

Hydration and rest

Give them fresh water in small amounts and make sure they have time to use the bathroom. The key is to feed them small portions at a time, once they’ve settled down.

Health Status Check

Check your pet’s energy level, appetite, bowel movements, and breathing. If you notice any concerning symptoms, please consult a local veterinary clinic.

Adapting to a New Environment

Set up their usual bed and toys to create a safe and comfortable space. Gradually expand their living area and the duration of their walks. If you place familiar items—such as their favorite blanket or cat tree—they may come to recognize the space as “their own” within a few days.

It’s natural for pets to show signs of mild fatigue after a long trip. With plenty of rest and water, most pets will bounce back quickly.

Additional Points to Check When Planning a Long-Term Stay or Relocation

If you're planning a long-term stay or relocation rather than a trip, it's important to make preparations with your life after arrival in mind.

Check out local veterinary clinics in advance

Research walking routes in advance to identify safe paths

If there is a significant difference in climate, acclimate yourself gradually.

Check for hazardous areas in your new home from the pet's perspective and take safety measures

Care Tips by Pet Type

The considerations for air travel vary depending on the dog or cat breed and the type of animal. Since acceptance and transport conditions differ by airline, please refer to the official website of the airline you plan to use or the IATA (International Air Transport Association) for details.Live Animals Regulations(Verified in July 2026) Please be sure to review this as well. Make sure you understand the proper care for each type.

For brachycephalic breeds (such as Pugs, French Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus)

Brachycephalic breeds are prone to respiratory strain, and many airlines have established specific transport conditions for them.

Choose a slightly larger crate for easier breathing.

Choose flights during cooler seasons or times of day

Be especially conscious of hydration

Check the acceptance criteria of the airline you plan to use in advance.

For more information.Can Snub-Nosed Breeds Fly? Airline-by-Airline Acceptance Policies & What You Can DoandGuide to Flying with Brachycephalic DogsThis is explained in detail there.

For Large and Small Dogs

Large dogs: Make sure to provide a crate that is large enough for your dog’s size, and carefully conduct crate training in advance. Keep in mind the strain on your dog’s joints, and pay attention to maintaining a balance between exercise and rest.
toy dog: It’s a good idea to bring a light blanket or similar item to help maintain body temperature, and to have a small amount of high-calorie snacks on hand to prevent hypoglycemia. If you’re allowed to bring a carrier into the cabin, choose a comfortable one.

In the case of cats

Cats tend to be more sensitive to changes in their environment than dogs. Keeping the following points in mind can help reduce the stress of moving for your cat.

For a few days before the move, leave the carrier in the room so your pet can come and go as it pleases.

Place a favorite blanket in the carrier to provide a sense of security

Utilizing Pheromone Formulations

Use a carrier cover to reduce visual stimuli (ensuring proper ventilation is essential)

Set up and smell the toilet as soon as you arrive.

For small animals such as rabbits, ferrets, and birds

Animals other than dogs and cats can also travel by plane if proper preparations are made. Be sure to check the following points in particular.

Be sure to check in advance whether the airline accepts that particular animal species.

Provide a carrier specifically designed for each type

For animals that are particularly sensitive to temperature changes, plan with the seasons in mind.

Summary: Preparation and Care for a Smooth Flight with Your Pet

With the right preparation and care, flying with your pet can be a much smoother experience than you might expect. From choosing the right carrier and training your pet, to conducting health checks and preparing the necessary documents, to adjusting their meals, water intake, and exercise on the day of travel, and providing attentive care upon arrival—by taking each of these steps carefully, you can steadily reduce your pet’s stress.

We have separate articles that provide detailed explanations regarding cases requiring special consideration—such as brachycephalic breeds—as well as entry requirements for your destination and procedures for returning to Japan. If you have any concerns, please feel free to contact PetAirJPN early in your planning process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. Is flying really stressful for pets?

There is a possibility that your pet may experience some stress due to unfamiliar sounds or changes in air pressure. However, it is entirely possible to minimize this stress by conducting crate training in advance and providing careful care on the day of travel. With proper preparation and support from their owners, many pets arrive at their destination feeling calm.

Q. Is it okay to use sedatives to calm my pet?

Medications with strong sedative effects are generally considered unsuitable for air transport, unless a veterinarian determines that they are medically necessary. Please avoid using such medications on your own judgment and be sure to consult your regular veterinarian in advance.

Q. Do pheromone products really work?

Synthetic pheromone products such as Adaptil (for dogs) and Feliway (for cats) are said to have a relaxing effect. If you’re considering using them, it’s a good idea to try them out once before the flight and, if necessary, consult your veterinarian for peace of mind.

Q. My dog just won't get used to the crate. What should I do?

It’s important to help your dog see the crate as a “safe place” rather than a “scary place.” Start taking these steps well in advance—several months before your trip—such as leaving the door open, placing favorite toys and treats inside, and gradually getting your dog used to it, starting with short periods of time.

Q. Can brachycephalic breeds fly on airplanes?

Brachycephalic breeds are considered to be at higher risk for respiratory problems than other dog and cat breeds, and many airlines have established specific transport conditions for them. This does not mean transport is impossible in all cases; there are ways to make it work, such as choosing flights during cooler times of the day. For more details,Can Snub-Nosed Breeds Fly? Airline-by-Airline Acceptance Policies & What You Can Dofor more details.

Q. How long does it take to get back to normal after arriving?

Although individual differences exist, most pets return to their normal selves within a few days. Make sure they get plenty of rest and stay hydrated, and if you notice any concerning symptoms, please consult a local veterinary clinic.

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Written by: PetAirJPN Editorial Department (International Pet Transportation Operations Team)

*The information in this article is current as of August 2026. Quarantine regulations in various countries and airline policies are subject to change without notice. This article is intended to provide general information only; to determine whether travel is permitted and to confirm specific requirements, please be sure to check the latest official information from the relevant national authorities, animal quarantine offices, and airlines.