KLM allows pets to travel in the cabin, as checked baggage, or as cargo, depending on the animal’s size, the destination, and the cabin class. You must book your pet’s travel at least 48 hours before departure, and each pet counts toward a limited number of spots per flight.
What Pets Can Fly on KLM?
KLM accepts dogs and cats on most flights. Other animals (birds, rabbits, etc.) are generally not allowed in the cabin or as checked baggage; they must travel via KLM Cargo. For dogs and cats, the rules depend on the route:
- In-cabin: Only small dogs and cats (including the carrier, max weight 8 kg / 17.6 lbs) can travel in the cabin, and only in Economy Class on most flights. The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you.
- Checked baggage: Larger dogs and cats (up to 75 kg / 165 lbs including the kennel) can travel in the heated, pressurized cargo hold as checked baggage, but this is not available on all flights or to all destinations.
- Cargo: For pets that exceed size/weight limits, or for travel to/from certain countries (e.g., Australia, New Zealand, UK, Ireland), pets must be shipped via KLM Cargo, which has different booking and documentation procedures.
Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like pugs, bulldogs, and Persian cats are at higher risk of breathing problems during air travel. KLM does not accept these breeds in the cargo hold, and they may only travel in the cabin if they meet the size/weight limits. Check with KLM before booking.
How to Book Pet Travel on KLM
You cannot add a pet to an existing booking online. You must contact KLM by phone or through their customer service chat. Here’s the typical process:
- Book your own flight first (or have a booking reference).
- Call KLM at least 48 hours before departure (earlier is better, especially for peak seasons).
- Tell the agent you want to add a pet (in-cabin or as checked baggage).
- Pay the pet fee (see costs below).
- Receive a confirmation that your pet is booked. You’ll need to show this at check-in.
Note: KLM limits the number of pets per flight (usually 2-4 in cabin, depending on aircraft). If the flight is full, you may need to choose another flight.
Pet Carrier and Kennel Requirements
Your pet must travel in an IATA-compliant carrier or kennel. Specific requirements:
- In-cabin carrier: Must be soft-sided or hard-sided, leak-proof, well-ventilated, and fit under the seat (max dimensions: 46 x 28 x 24 cm / 18 x 11 x 9.5 inches). The pet must be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
- Checked baggage kennel: Must be rigid, with a solid roof, a leak-proof floor, and a secure locking mechanism. It must have ventilation on at least three sides. The kennel must be large enough for the pet to stand, turn, and lie down.
- No two pets may share a carrier unless they are two puppies or two kittens under 6 months old (and under 14 kg total) from the same litter.
Always label the kennel with your name, address, and phone number. Some airlines require a “Live Animal” sticker—KLM provides these at check-in if needed.
Costs and Fees
KLM pet fees vary by route and travel type. As of 2025, typical fees are:
- In-cabin (within Europe): €75 per pet per flight.
- In-cabin (intercontinental): €125 per pet per flight.
- Checked baggage (all routes): €200 per pet per flight (or equivalent in local currency).
- Cargo: Quote from KLM Cargo based on weight, dimensions, and route.
Fees are non-refundable if you cancel your pet’s booking, but they are transferable if you change your flight (subject to availability).
Health, Vaccination, and Documentation
All pets must have a valid rabies vaccination (at least 21 days before travel for most countries) and a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of departure. For travel within the EU, an EU Pet Passport is required. For international travel, you need an export/import permit from the destination country. Check with the embassy or veterinary authority of your destination for specific requirements.
Some countries (e.g., Australia, New Zealand, UK) have strict quarantine rules. You may need to book your pet into a quarantine facility weeks or months in advance. Always research your destination’s import rules before booking.
Common Problems and Misconceptions
One common misconception is that all pets can travel in the cabin. In reality, only small dogs and cats under 8 kg (including carrier) can fly in the cabin, and only in Economy. Business Class on KLM does not allow pets in the cabin (except service animals).
Another issue: many travelers assume their pet can fly with them on any route. But KLM does not accept pets as checked baggage on flights to/from the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, or South Africa due to quarantine and welfare regulations. For those destinations, pets must go via KLM Cargo.
Also, during hot summer months, KLM may suspend checked baggage pet travel at certain airports due to tarmac temperatures. This is for safety, but it can disrupt your plans.
Safety Tips for Flying with Your Pet
- Acclimate your pet to the carrier at least a week before the flight. Leave it open at home with treats and a blanket inside.
- Do not feed your pet within 4 hours of departure (but water should be available until boarding).
- Take your pet for a long walk before the flight to tire them out.
- Do not give sedatives unless prescribed by a vet—sedation can cause breathing problems at altitude.
- Attach a collar with an ID tag and a microchip (mandatory for EU travel).
- Carry a recent photo of your pet in case they get lost.
Alternatives to Flying with KLM
If KLM cannot accommodate your pet (e.g., due to breed restrictions or route), consider:
- Other airlines: Some airlines have more generous in-cabin policies (e.g., allow pets in Business Class).
- Pet relocation services: Companies specialize in door-to-door pet transport, handling all paperwork and logistics. They often use cargo, but they can also book on other airlines.
- Ground transportation: For shorter distances, driving or ferry may be less stressful for your pet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take my dog on KLM in the cabin? Yes, if your dog (with carrier) weighs 8 kg or less and fits under the seat. Only small dogs and cats are allowed in the cabin, and only in Economy Class.
How much does KLM charge for a pet in the cabin? €75 within Europe, €125 for intercontinental flights, per pet per flight. Checked baggage is €200.
Can my pet fly in the cabin if I’m in Business Class? No. KLM does not allow pets in Business Class (except service animals). You would need to book Economy or use cargo.
What documents do I need for my pet to fly to the EU? An EU Pet Passport (or a third-country veterinary certificate), rabies vaccination, and a health certificate within 10 days of travel. Microchip is mandatory.
Does KLM allow flat-faced breeds like pugs? Not in the cargo hold due to breathing risks. They may travel in the cabin if they meet size/weight limits, but check with KLM for specific restrictions.
Can I book my pet online with KLM? No, you must call KLM. You cannot add a pet to an existing booking online.
Template for Pet Travel Checklist
Use this checklist to prepare for your pet’s KLM flight. Fill in the blanks with your details.
| Item | Details | Done |
|---|---|---|
| KLM pet booking made (48h+ before) | Date: ___________ | ☐ |
| Carrier/kennel meets IATA specs | Dimensions: ___________ | ☐ |
| Rabies vaccination (21+ days) | Date: ___________ | ☐ |
| Health certificate (within 10 days) | Vet: ___________ | ☐ |
| EU Pet Passport (if applicable) | Number: ___________ | ☐ |
| Microchip (ISO 11784/11785) | Number: ___________ | ☐ |
| ID tag on collar | Phone: ___________ | ☐ |
| Food and water for trip | Amount: ___________ | ☐ |
| Comfort item (blanket/toy) | Item: ___________ | ☐ |
Sample (fictional): KLM pet booking made: 2025-03-01; Carrier dims: 45x28x24 cm; Rabies: 2025-02-10; Health cert: 2025-03-05; EU Passport: 123456; Microchip: 985123456789; ID tag: +31-6-12345678; Food: 2 cups; Comfort: fleece blanket.
If your pet has a medical condition or you’re unsure about any requirement, ask your veterinarian or a qualified pet travel agent.