Shipping Your Savannah Kitten

Shipping Your Savannah Kitten

As a Savannah cat owner, there may come a time when you need to transport your feline friend over long distances. Whether you’re moving across the country or bringing home a new Savannah kitten, understanding the ins and outs of shipping your cat is crucial for ensuring a safe and comfortable journey. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every aspect of shipping your Savannah cat, from preparation to arrival.

Key Considerations:

  • Savannah cats may experience higher levels of stress during travel
  • Their size requires larger, more secure carriers
  • Special attention to temperature control is essential due to their African serva

Airline Requirements for Shipping your Savannah Kitten

In order to ship a savannah kitten, the airlines require a health certificate issued by a vet within 10 days of travel. Essentially this certificate is a confirmation that the kitten is healthy. Some airlines will also require an acclimation statement from the vet, stating that the animal can be exposed to temperatures in a given range for short periods of time. The airlines require that the animal NOT be sedated, as their balance and equilibrium are altered under sedation which can be dangerous when the kennel is moved. There is also concern that the increased altitude pressure can cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems with animals that have been sedated. Depending on the airline and the airport, kittens are either checked in, as well as picked up, from either the baggage claim office in the passenger terminal or the cargo facility office located within a few miles of the passenger terminal. Kittens are checked in approximately two hours prior to the flight and are generally available to be picked up within 30-45 minutes of arrival.

The Flight

After being checked in, pets are kept in an area that is temperature-controlled until it is time for them to be loaded onto the plane. Many airlines transport pets to and from the plane in heated/air-conditioned vans. The airlines that do not have this option will not ship pets if the temperature is below 25 degrees or above 85 degrees. Once on the plane, pets travel in a space below the passenger cabin that is also pressurized and temperature controlled.

Some people worry that being shipped is too traumatic of an experience for the kittens. At Exotic Cattery, we do all we can to make this transition as low stress as possible. Carriers are lined with a thick layer of absorbent bedding for comfort, as well as to absorb any accidents that may happen while in the carrier. It is very rare for a kitten to relieve themselves while in the carrier, though it does happen on occasion. We also crumple up a mass of paper towels and put a thick layer of them in the carrier. This gives kittens the ability to burrow into them for a little extra warmth, as well as gives them a ‘hiding place’ to feel a little more safe and secluded during their trip.

After your Savannah Kitten has Arrived

Upon arrival, most kittens seem relieved to see people- something familiar. It is a good idea to take some baby wet wipes and a towel with you to pick your kitten up, especially if you have a long ride home. If your kitten is one of the few that relieved themselves in the carrier, you and your new kitten will appreciate a quick wet wipe bath and having a towel to switch out for the soiled bedding in the carrier. If it is a quick trip home, I would suggest leaving the kitten in its carrier until you get home. If it will be a long drive you may want to let the kitten out in the car, before you get on the road to stretch its legs. Play it by ear though. Some kittens will be a bit shook up by all the change taking place and maybe more comfortable left in the carrier.

Once you get home with your kitten, we recommend starting in a very small room. The master bathroom is ideal because there usually isn’t much for them to hide behind or under. This will force them to come out of their shell and explore quicker than they would if they were in an area that they could hide under a bed or behind a dresser. We send a teaser toy, two cans of wet food, and a small bag of dry food attached to the carrier. Locate the toy and coax your kitten out of the carrier with the toy. Playtime is the fastest way to quell your kitten’s fears of a new environment and win their heart. Starting them in a small area will make them feel safer and more at ease. Too large of an area will cause sensory overload and make the acclimation process take longer.

Driving vs Shipping your Savannah Kitten

Preparing Your Savannah Cat for Travel

Proper preparation is key to a successful shipping experience. Here’s how to get your Savannah cat ready for the journey:

1. Health Check and Documentation

Before shipping your Savannah cat, schedule a visit with your veterinarian. They will:

  • Perform a thorough health examination
  • Update vaccinations if necessary
  • Provide a health certificate (required for air travel)
  • Discuss any specific health concerns or needs for your cat

2. Choosing the Right Carrier

Selecting an appropriate carrier is crucial for your Savannah cat’s safety and comfort. Look for:

  • A carrier that’s large enough for your cat to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably
  • Sturdy construction with secure latches
  • Good ventilation on all sides
  • Leak-proof bottom with absorbent material

For air travel, ensure the carrier meets airline requirements. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) provides guidelines for pet carriers [https://www.iata.org/en/programs/cargo/live-animals/pets/].

3. Familiarizing Your Cat with the Carrier

To reduce stress, help your Savannah cat become comfortable with the carrier before the trip:

  • Place the carrier in a familiar area of your home
  • Put treats, toys, or catnip inside to create positive associations
  • Encourage your cat to explore and sleep in the carrier
  • Practice short car rides to get them used to movement

4. Packing Essentials

Prepare a travel kit for your Savannah cat, including:

  • Enough food and water for the journey, plus extra in case of delays
  • Familiar bedding or toys to provide comfort
  • Cleaning supplies for accidents
  • Copies of health records and identification

Choosing a Shipping Method

When it comes to shipping your Savannah cat, you have several options to consider:

1. Air Travel

Air travel is often the fastest and most efficient way to ship your Savannah cat over long distances. However, it requires careful planning and adherence to airline policies.

Tips for Air Travel:

  • Book a direct flight whenever possible to minimize stress and handling
  • Choose climate-controlled cargo areas for your cat’s safety
  • Check airline pet policies well in advance, as they can vary significantly

The American Veterinary Medical Association offers guidance on air travel with pets [https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/traveling-your-pet-faqs].

2. Ground Transportation

For shorter distances or if air travel isn’t an option, ground transportation can be a good choice. This can include:

  • Personal vehicle travel
  • Professional pet transportation services

Benefits of Ground Transportation:

  • More control over stops and environmental conditions
  • Ability to comfort and monitor your cat throughout the journey
  • Often less stressful for cats who don’t do well with air travel

3. Pet Shipping Companies

Specialized pet shipping companies can handle all aspects of your Savannah cat’s journey, including:

  • Arranging transportation
  • Handling paperwork and customs requirements for international travel
  • Providing door-to-door service

While often more expensive, these services can offer peace of mind, especially for complex or international shipments.

The Day of Travel: Ensuring a Smooth Journey

On the day of your Savannah cat’s trip, follow these steps to ensure everything goes smoothly:

  1. Feed your cat a light meal about 4-6 hours before departure to prevent nausea
  2. Take your cat for a final bathroom break before placing them in the carrier
  3. Secure any necessary documentation to the carrier
  4. Arrive early at the airport or departure point to allow time for check-in and any last-minute requirements

During the journey, if possible:

  • Check on your cat during layovers or stops
  • Offer water if the trip is long, but avoid opening the carrier in unsecured areas

Arriving at the Destination: Helping Your Savannah Cat Adjust

Once you’ve reached your destination, help your Savannah cat acclimate to their new environment:

  1. Set up a quiet, secure space with familiar items from home
  2. Gradually introduce them to new areas of the house
  3. Maintain their regular feeding and play routines
  4. Be patient and give them time to adjust

Special Considerations for International Travel

If you’re shipping your Savannah cat internationally, additional steps may be required:

  • Research the importing country’s pet regulations well in advance
  • Obtain necessary permits and health certificates
  • Consider quarantine requirements, which can vary significantly between countries

The U.S. Department of Agriculture provides information on international pet travel requirements [https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/pet-travel].

Shipping Your Savannah Kitten

Shipping your Savannah cat can be a complex process, but with proper planning and care, you can ensure a safe and comfortable journey for your feline friend. Remember, every cat is unique, and Savannah cats may require extra attention due to their size and temperament. By following this guide and working closely with veterinarians and transportation professionals, you can minimize stress and make the shipping experience as smooth as possible for your beloved Savannah cat.

Contact Exotic Cattery with Questions

We always enjoy having the opportunity to meet our clients in person and show off our facility and amazing Savannahs, but picking their kitten up isn’t often an option for most clients. If you are one of those, rest assured that your new family member will be well taken care of during its journey to join your family. If you have further questions about the shipping process feel free to ask!

 

citations

  1. International Air Transport Association (IATA): [https://www.iata.org/en/programs/cargo/live-animals/pets/]
  2. American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA): [https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/traveling-your-pet-faqs]
  3. U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA): [https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/pet-travel]