Relocating Internationally with Two Cats: Logistics, Shared Crates and Stress Reduction
Moving one cat internationally is logistically involved. Moving two simultaneously adds a layer of complexity – doubled documentation, two sets of health certificates, two airline slots and, one of the most common questions: can they travel in the same crate?
Can Two Cats Share a Crate?
The short answer: sometimes, but it depends on size and relationship.
IATA regulations permit two cats to travel in the same crate if:
- They are compatible (bonded cats that live together and are comfortable in close proximity)
- The crate is large enough to comfortably accommodate both – meaning both cats can stand, turn and lie down independently within the same space
- They are of similar size
- They are not in heat
In practice, airlines interpret IATA guidance differently. Some airlines automatically require one crate per cat regardless of bonding status. Others accept shared crates for clearly bonded pairs with vet confirmation. Always confirm the specific airline’s policy before booking.
For bonded cats that have shared sleeping spaces for years, a shared crate is often actually less stressful than separate crates, because the familiar scent of a companion is a comfort. For cats that merely coexist (tolerate each other but are not closely bonded), the stress of a shared, confined crate can trigger aggression.
The Documentation Reality
Regardless of crate sharing, each cat requires its own individual documentation:
- Individual health certificate (one per cat)
- Individual government endorsement (one per cat)
- Individual microchip number documented
- Individual vaccination records
- Individual import permit where required by the destination
There is no shortcut here. Two cats, two full sets of paperwork.
Booking the Airline Cargo
When booking live animal cargo for two cats, you typically book two spaces. Even if sharing a crate, the cargo booking is per animal. Contact the airline’s live animal cargo team directly and specify that you have two cats, whether they will be in one or two crates, and provide the combined weight information.
Airlines limit the number of live animals accepted per flight. If you are travelling on a popular route during a busy season, book well in advance. Live animal slots fill quickly.
Stress Management for Two Cats
Cats are territorial. Moving internationally means losing their established territory and encountering entirely new smells, sounds and spaces. Two cats relocating together means each cat is going through that same territorial stress simultaneously.
What helps:
- Crate train both cats in advance of travel. Ideally, feed both cats in their travel crates for several weeks before departure
- Use Feliway or equivalent synthetic pheromone spray on the crate interior 30 minutes before placing cats in the crate. Do not spray directly on the cat
- Do not feed in the 6 hours before flight to reduce nausea, but provide water
- Keep their routine as stable as possible in the days before travel
After Arrival: Managing Two Cats in a New Home
Arriving in a new country together gives bonded cats an advantage: they have each other. Set up a quiet room with familiar bedding, litter trays, food and water for both cats on arrival. Allow them to explore at their own pace before opening the room to the rest of the property.
Some cats settle within days; others take weeks. Monitor for stress signs including reduced appetite, excessive grooming, or hiding. If either cat stops eating for more than 48 hours, contact a local vet.
For information on the documentation and country-specific requirements for cat imports, see: