FAQ: Carriers & Crates for small pets

Keep the car cool but not cold and point the vents away from the carrier. If you open a window, the draught should not blow straight onto the animal, so a window slightly open away from the carrier is better.

Air conditioning helps prevent overheating, but a cold stream blowing straight into the carrier can chill the animal. Point the airflow elsewhere and avoid a big temperature difference between the car and outside.

Rodents and rabbits do not vomit, but travel can stress them and upset their digestion. Gentle driving, a secured carrier and shorter journeys help, and if the animal goes off its food for long after trips, talk to a vet.

On a long journey it is worth stopping every two or three hours to check that the rabbit is not too hot and is eating hay and drinking. Do not open the carrier outdoors, so the rabbit cannot jump out.

Yes, rodents and rabbits have sharp hearing and loud sounds or bass frighten them. When you have an animal on board, keep music quiet and conversation calm.

Do not, because a frightened animal can bolt in an instant and end up under the pedals or seats. If you need to check on it or top up water, stop and close all the car’s doors and windows first.

No. A loose rabbit can get under the pedals, distract the driver and be thrown and badly hurt when braking. It is not protected on a passenger’s lap either, so always use a secured carrier.

Take the animal separately in a carrier, empty the cage, remove loose parts and transport it as ordinary cargo. Pack some bedding and favourite items separately so you can quickly set up a familiar space at the new place.

Yes, if both are in separate, secured carriers and the rodent’s carrier is as far from the predator as possible. The smell and sounds of a dog or cat frighten rodents, so it is best to cover the carrier and not place them side by side.

Yes, sun through glass quickly heats the carrier even when the car feels cool. Use window shades, put the carrier in shade and check regularly that the animal is not too hot.

Small animals in a closed carrier are usually allowed on public transport, but the exact rules depend on the operator, so it is worth checking in advance. Keep the carrier on your lap and protect it from jostling and draughts.

Many operators allow small animals in closed carriers, sometimes with an extra ticket, so check the rules before travelling. Choose a seat away from the doors, where there is less noise and draught.

Many airlines do not allow rodents or rabbits in the cabin, and some do not accept them in the hold either. Before planning a trip check the specific airline’s rules and ask a vet whether flying is suitable for the animal.

The EU pet passport is required for dogs, cats and ferrets, while each country sets its own rules for bringing in rodents and rabbits. Before travelling check the destination country’s requirements and talk to a vet.

Many taxi drivers will take an animal in a closed carrier, but it is better to say in advance that you will have one with you. Keep the carrier on your lap or on the floor by your feet and ask for the air not to blow straight at it.

Carry the carrier level, supporting it from underneath so it does not swing. Avoid noisy streets and direct sun, and in cold or windy weather drape a cloth over the carrier while keeping the vents clear.

Find out the destination country’s import rules, and arrange a roomy carrier or travel cage, hay, the usual food and water for the whole journey. Look up a vet at your destination in advance and plan stops in cool places.

Ferries often have special rules for animals, such as having to stay in the car or in pet-friendly cabins. Because car decks can be hot and noisy, check the rules in advance and ask where the animal can stay during the crossing.

Close the doors and windows right away if you can, and switch off the engine. Do not grab at the animal: place the open carrier with hay or treats nearby and wait for it to go back in by itself.

Most rodents and rabbits find staying in their usual surroundings with a reliable sitter less stressful than travelling. Taking them along makes sense when you are away for a long time and can set them up somewhere quiet at a suitable temperature.