Cathay Pacific Pet Policy for Dogs
Cathay Pacific does not allow pet dogs in the cabin except accredited assistance dogs, and pet dogs generally travel via Cathay Cargo under live-animal rules.
Cathay Pacific Pet Policy Overview
Cathay Pacific’s current policy is much stricter than many North American airlines. For most travelers, pet dogs cannot ride in the cabin and must be shipped as cargo through Cathay Cargo. The main onboard exception is for accredited assistance dogs, subject to route rules and documentation.
If you are traveling with a pet dog on Cathay Pacific, plan for cargo transport rather than cabin travel. Cathay’s passenger FAQ explicitly states that pets are not allowed in the cabin except service dogs. Cathay’s live-animal page also says pet shipments must follow IATA Live Animal Regulations and, from September 1, 2025, direct cargo bookings are accepted only from IPATA or ATA members. For travelers with accredited assistance dogs, Cathay accepts dogs accredited by Assistance Dogs International, Assistance Dogs Europe, or the International Guide Dog Federation, subject to route and legal requirements.
Last updated: 2026-03-25
How to Book Your Dog on Cathay Pacific
- Confirm whether your dog is a pet dog or an accredited assistance dog. Cathay Pacific’s cabin exception is for accredited assistance dogs only. 2. If your dog is a pet dog, do not expect to add it as an in-cabin pet during normal flight booking. Cathay’s FAQ says pets are not allowed in the cabin and must travel in cargo. 3. Review the Cathay Pacific travelling-with-animals page and your destination’s import rules, including any transit-country requirements. 4. Contact an approved pet transport company that is a member of IPATA or ATA. Cathay states that, effective September 1, 2025, direct bookings of pet shipments with Cathay Cargo are accepted only from one of these approved parties. 5. Ask the pet shipper to confirm route availability, embargoes, crate standards, breed restrictions, and whether your dog falls under any brachycephalic limitations. 6. Obtain all veterinary and government paperwork required for export, transit, and import. Cathay also notes that acceptance is subject to the laws and regulations of the departure point, destination, and any layover point. 7. Have your shipper request the cargo booking and quote. Cathay does not publish a single flat cargo pet fee, so pricing is typically based on route and shipment specifics. 8. If you are traveling with an accredited assistance dog instead, contact Cathay Pacific in advance and be prepared to provide accreditation and destination-specific documentation. Cathay’s assistance-dog page says accepted dogs must be accredited by ADI, ADEu, or IGDF-recognized organizations. 9. Reconfirm all documents and timing before departure, especially if your itinerary includes Hong Kong or other jurisdictions with strict animal-entry rules. 10. Arrive with extra time and follow the instructions provided by Cathay or your pet shipper for check-in or cargo handoff.
Cathay Pacific vs Other Airlines
| Feature | Cathay Pacific | Delta Air Lines | American Airlines |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-Cabin Fee | Not applicable for pet dogs; pets not allowed in cabin except assistance dogs | $150 USD/CAD for U.S./Canada/Puerto Rico/U.S. Virgin Islands tickets issued on/after Apr. 8, 2025; $200 international | $150 per kennel |
| Cargo Fee | Varies; quote required through cargo/approved shipper | Varies for cargo; checked-pet fees apply only in limited cases | Varies for cargo; American PetEmbark pricing confirmed at booking |
| Weight Limit | No standard published passenger pet limit for dogs; cargo rules apply | Pet must fit comfortably in kennel; cargo/check rules vary by service | 20 lb total for carry-on pet + carrier on eligible flights |
| Carrier Size | No in-cabin pet-dog carrier size published | Recommended soft-sided kennel up to 18 x 11 x 11 in | Soft-sided 18 x 11 x 11 in; hard-sided 19 x 13 x 9 in on mainline |
| Breeds Restricted | Certain brachycephalic animals only on specific routes and seasons | Destination and route restrictions apply; some countries ban cabin pets | Brachycephalic dogs not accepted as checked pets |
| Booking Method | Use IPATA/ATA member shipper for cargo; assistance dogs arranged with airline in advance | Contact Delta Reservations for in-cabin pet booking | Add carry-on pet on aa.com/app, then pay at airport; cargo via PetEmbark |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my dog fly in the cabin on Cathay Pacific?
Usually no. Cathay Pacific’s FAQ says pets are not allowed in the cabin aside from service or assistance dogs.
Does Cathay Pacific allow dogs as checked baggage?
Cathay’s current passenger guidance directs pet dogs to travel in cargo rather than as standard in-cabin pets. You should confirm the exact handling method for your route with Cathay Cargo or an approved pet shipper.
How do I book a pet dog on Cathay Pacific?
For pet dogs, start with an IPATA or ATA member pet transport company. Cathay says direct cargo bookings are accepted only from approved parties effective September 1, 2025.
How much does Cathay Pacific charge to fly a dog?
Cathay does not publish a simple flat pet fee on its passenger pet page. Cargo pricing varies by route, crate, and shipment details, so you need a quote.
Are service or assistance dogs allowed on Cathay Pacific?
Yes, accredited assistance dogs may be accepted. Cathay says accepted dogs must be accredited by organizations recognized by Assistance Dogs International, Assistance Dogs Europe, or the International Guide Dog Federation.
Are snub-nosed or brachycephalic dogs restricted?
Yes, Cathay notes that certain brachycephalic animals are accepted only on specific routes during January-May and October-December, subject to cargo rules and operational limits.
Do I need a pet relocation agent for Cathay Pacific?
In many cases, yes. Cathay’s live-animal page says direct bookings with Cathay Cargo are accepted only from IPATA or ATA members, which effectively means many travelers will work through a professional pet shipper.