If you’re like me, your pets have to go with you everywhere.  If I am flying and have to take my cat, I will never have her put in the luggage compartment. This can be dangerous. Sometimes pets are left on a hot runway waiting to be boarded for an hour or more.  You also run the risk of the airline losing your pet. I don’t trust them. I don’t even trust them with my luggage and prefer to carry it on with me!  Your cat can travel with you in the passenger cabin if you follow certain rules.  Cats must be kept in a sturdy cat carrier which is placed under the seat. Make sure that the carrier is not too large. The  maximum dimensions for any carrier are 21 inches long, about 13 inches wide and 9 inches high. Make your reservations as early as possible because the airlines restrict the number of animals allowed in the passenger cabin.  You also need to be assigned a seat that has room enough for you and your cat.  Zippered cat carriers work well on planes but make sure your cat cannot claw is way out and make sure that the zipper is secure.  Cat carriers must be ventalated on at least two sides.  Make sure that your cat is wearing a collar with an id tag and that the carrier is labeled with your name, address and telephone number.  Add about $50 to your ticket for a one way trip with your cat. Have a good flight!