How to Travel with a Cat on a Plane to Italy (2026 Airline & Cabin Rules)

Key Updates for Cat Travel to Italy in 2026

• New EU Health Certificate Requirements: Updated validation periods for pet passports, as per the Ministero della Salute’s latest circular.
• Clarified ENAC Guidelines: Specifics on in-cabin carrier dimensions and considerations for brachycephalic cat breeds, impacting all airlines operating to/from Italy.
• Stricter Maximum Weight Limits: For cats traveling in the cabin, including the carrier, with many Italian airlines adapting to new standards. These stricter limits, reported by ANSA on January 8, 2026, necessitate careful carrier selection and pre-flight weighing.

Essential Pre-Travel Checklist: 2026 Requirements

1. EU Pet Passport and Microchip (Mandatory)

• Microchip: Must be ISO 11784/11785 compliant, 15-digit, and implanted before rabies vaccination.
• EU Pet Passport: Obtain an official passport from an authorized veterinarian, updated and validated according to 2026 standards and Ministero della Salute circulars.

2. Rabies Vaccination & Blood Test (Updated 2026 Protocols)

• Rabies Vaccination: Must be administered by an authorized veterinarian, be valid at the time of travel, and given after microchipping.
• Rabies Titer Test (FAVN test): Required for cats from non-EU countries. Must be performed at least 30 days post-vaccination. Entry to Italy is permitted 3 months after the date of the successful blood sample collection. Confirm any 2026 changes to waiting periods with your vet.

3. Veterinary Health Certificate (If Applicable)

For pets from certain non-EU countries, an additional health certificate endorsed by a government-authorized vet may be required. This certificate typically needs to be issued within 10 days of travel, following 2026 format specifications.

4. Deworming Treatment

May be required by certain airlines or transit countries, though not universally for Italy. Consult your airline and veterinarian for 2026 requirements.

2026 Airline & Cabin Rules for Cats to Italy

These general rules are informed by ENAC’s updated guidelines for 2026.

Category	Details (2026 Rules)
Weight Limits (Cat + Carrier)	Most airlines allow 8–10 kg (17.6–22 lbs) for cabin travel. ITA Airways confirms a strict 8 kg limit for 2026, as reported by ANSA. Always check your airline’s latest rules before booking.
Approved Pet Carriers (Cabin)	Carrier must fit under the seat. Usual max size is 46 × 28 × 24 cm (18 × 11 × 9.5 in) for soft carriers. ENAC 2026 rules stress strict size checks to keep aisles and exits clear.
Carrier Material & Safety	Soft carriers are preferred for flexibility, but hard carriers are allowed if they fit. Carrier must be well-ventilated, secure, and leak-proof.
Cat Comfort Rules	The cat must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside the carrier.
Booking Requirement	Cabin pet space is limited. Book as early as possible, ideally when you book your ticket. ITA Airways strongly advises early booking for 2026 due to limited slots.
Pet Travel Fees	A pet transport fee applies. Cost depends on airline and route. Always check the 2026 fee list directly with the airline.
Breed Restrictions	Some airlines restrict snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds because of breathing risks. ENAC 2026 updates give clearer guidance on these breeds.
Age Rules	Kittens must usually be 10–12 weeks old, fully weaned, and healthy before flying.

Preparing Your Cat for the Flight to Italy

1. Vet Check and Sedation

• Pre-Flight Exam: Schedule a final vet check-up close to departure to ensure the cat is fit to fly and compliant with 2026 health standards.
• Sedation: Generally not recommended by veterinarians and airlines due to potential respiratory and cardiovascular issues at altitude. Discuss calming alternatives with your vet.

2. Carrier Acclimatization

Familiarize your cat with its carrier well in advance, making it a positive space with treats and toys to reduce stress.

3. Food, Water, and Litter

Feed a light meal a few hours before the flight. Provide water until departure. Use an absorbent pad in the carrier for accidents.

Arrival in Italy: What to Expect

1. Customs and Veterinary Checks

• Customs or veterinary officials will check your pet’s passport and other documentation for compliance with 2026 EU entry protocols.
• A visual inspection of the cat and carrier for health and welfare is possible.

2. After Arrival

• Offer water and litter box access immediately after clearing customs.
• Allow your cat time to decompress in a quiet environment.

Airline-Specific Pet Policies for Italy (2026 Snapshot)

• ITA Airways: In-Cabin: Max 8 kg (cat + carrier). Specific soft-sided carrier dimensions apply.
• Lufthansa: In-Cabin: Max 8 kg (pet + carrier). Strict carrier dimensions.
• Air France: In-Cabin: Max 6 kg (pet + carrier). Specific soft bag dimensions.

*Note: These policies are subject to change. Always verify the most up-to-date 2026 information directly with the chosen airline.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Multiple Cats

Generally, one cat per passenger is allowed. Some airlines may permit two small, compatible cats from the same litter in one carrier if weight/size limits are met. Confirm with the airline regarding 2026 capacity restrictions.

Advance Notification

Yes, absolutely. Pet space must be reserved in advance, usually when booking your own ticket, to comply with 2026 booking procedures.

Cabin Requirements Not Met

If a cat exceeds cabin limits, it may need to travel in cargo, which is generally not recommended for cats. Consider alternative travel or adjust plans.

Specific Italian Requirements

Italy follows standard EU pet travel regulations. As of 2026, no additional specific Italian requirements beyond EU rules exist. Always check the Italian Ministry of Health website for last-minute updates.

Published Facts: Key 2026 Regulations

• Mandatory EU Pet Passport: Required for all cats traveling from EU countries or entering Italy from third countries, validated with current 2026 information (Source: Ministero della Salute, Circolare DGSAF del 15/12/2025).
• Rabies Vaccination: Must be current and administered after microchipping. For non-EU entries, a successful rabies antibody titer test is often required, with a minimum 3-month waiting period post-sample collection (check 2026 specific dates) (Source: Il Sole 24 Ore, 05/01/2026).
• Microchip: ISO 11784/11785 compliant, 15-digit microchip is legally required for identification (Source: Ministero della Salute).
• ENAC Guidelines 2026: Updates clarify in-cabin carrier dimensions and regulations for brachycephalic cats, effective January 1, 2026 (Source: ENAC, Technical Regulations on the Air Transport of Live Animals).
• Airline Weight Limits: Maximum in-cabin weight for cat + carrier typically 8-10 kg as of 2026, with ITA Airways enforcing an 8 kg limit (Source: ANSA, 08/01/2026; ITA Airways Official X Account, 07/01/2026).

Conclusion

Traveling with a cat to Italy in 2026 requires careful planning and adherence to updated regulations. Key steps include confirming microchip and EU Pet Passport validity, complying with airline-specific weight and carrier restrictions, and booking the cat’s spot well in advance.