Can I Fly with a Rabbit, Ferret, or Small Animal?

Halle
May 16
3 min read

Traveling with pets can be complicated—especially when they aren’t cats or dogs. If you’re planning a move or trip and wondering "Can rabbits fly on planes?" or what the pet airline rules for exotic animals are, you’re not alone. At PetCommute, we’ve helped many families with flying with small pets—including rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, hamsters, and more.

Here’s what you need to know to fly safely with your smaller, exotic companions.

Can I Fly with a Rabbit, Ferret, or Small Animal? Here’s What Airlines Allow

Yes, many airlines do allow small pets such as rabbits, ferrets, and other exotic animals to fly—but the rules can vary significantly by carrier and destination.

General guidelines include:

Rabbits are often allowed in-cabin on select airlines if they are in a soft-sided carrier that fits under the seat.
Ferrets, guinea pigs, and other small mammals may need to travel in the cargo hold or with specialized animal transport services.
Some airlines may not accept certain exotic animals at all, especially for international flights due to customs and agriculture regulations.

At PetCommute, we help pet parents understand which carriers support their small animals and how to prepare for the journey.

Pet Airline Rules for Exotic Animals

Pet airline rules for exotic animals depend on the type of animal, airline policy, and your destination.

Here are some key considerations:

Carrier Requirements: Animals must be transported in an airline-approved crate or soft-sided carrier that allows for adequate ventilation and space.
Cabin vs. Cargo: Some small pets like rabbits may be allowed in-cabin, while others (like ferrets or rodents) may be restricted to cargo or denied entirely.
Destination Rules: International flights often have stricter import laws, quarantine rules, or bans on certain species.
Paperwork: You may need veterinary records, vaccination proof, or permits depending on your route.

Because policies are not always published clearly online, our team contacts airlines directly and ensures all documentation and logistics are handled properly.

Can Rabbits Fly on Planes?

One of the most common questions we receive is, "Can rabbits fly on planes?" The short answer: yes, but only on some airlines.

Airlines that allow rabbits typically:

Require soft-sided carriers that fit under the seat
Only allow one rabbit per passenger
Charge a pet travel fee, similar to that for cats or small dogs
May restrict rabbits from flying on international routes or during certain times of year

PetCommute works with pet-friendly airlines and helps secure safe and comfortable travel for rabbits, whether by air or ground, based on what’s best for their breed, age, and temperament.

Tips for Flying with Small Pets

If you're planning on flying with small pets, preparation makes all the difference. Here are some tips to make the experience easier for both you and your pet:

Choose the right airline. Not all carriers allow small animals—always verify before booking.
Use a comfortable, airline-approved carrier. Soft sides, good ventilation, and a snug fit help reduce stress.
Limit food before flying. Offer water, but avoid heavy meals to prevent discomfort during flight.
Bring familiar bedding. A small towel or toy with your scent can help calm your pet.
Avoid extreme temperatures. Many airlines restrict pet travel during very hot or cold seasons.

Need Help Flying with Small Pets? PetCommute Can Help.

Whether you're unsure if rabbits can fly on planes, trying to decode pet airline rules for exotic animals, or simply overwhelmed by the logistics of flying with small pets, PetCommute is here to help.

We handle:

Researching airline policies for your specific pet
Coordinating travel documents and health records
Booking flights with approved carriers
Providing safe, stress-free ground transport when flying isn't an option

Get in touch today and let us build a personalized transport plan for your rabbit, ferret, or other small pet.