Asia
Flying with a dog on Cathay Pacific CX
Asia
Flying with a dog on Cathay Pacific
Limited
Here is the Cathay Pacific pet policy for dogs, checked against the airline's own pages in October 2026. Below: what applies in the cabin and in the hold, the breed rules for your dog, and what to sort out before you fly.
Cathay Pacific dog policy at a glance
In the cabin
Not allowed
Dogs can't fly in the cabin on Cathay Pacific.
In the hold
Available
Breed rules
Restrictions| Breed group | Cargo booked separately |
|---|---|
| Snub-nosed | Conditional |
| Strong breeds | Not listed |
– not listed
Snub-nosed
- Cargo, booked separately
- Conditional
Strong breeds
- Cargo, booked separately
- Not listed
Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) cats and dogs are only accepted in cargo from January to May and October to December on Hong Kong to London Heathrow, Melbourne and Singapore routes, and must be booked through an IPATA certified BOAS pet shipper.
Assistance dogs
AllowedGuide and assistance dogs are welcome on board in the cabin.
Summary
Cathay Pacific does not carry pets in the cabin; pets travel only in the hold as cargo via the Cathay Live Animal service by Cathay Cargo. From 1 September 2025, pet bookings are only accepted through IPATA or ATA members, IATA accredited freight forwarders, or holders of a valid IATA LAR certificate. Certain brachycephalic breeds are accepted only from January to May and October to December on select routes and must use an IPATA certified BOAS pet shipper.
Pets are carried only through Cathay Cargo's Cathay Live Animal service in line with IATA LAR; from 01 September 2025 direct bookings are accepted only from IPATA/ATA members, IATA accredited freight forwarders, or holders of a valid IATA LAR certificate. Kennels must meet IATA Live Animal Regulations but no specific dimensions are published here.
Before you fly
- Check which vaccinations and health documents your route requires, and keep them with you.
- Reserve your dog's spot early, as places per flight are limited.
- Check the entry rules of your destination country.
- Get your dog used to the carrier or kennel well before the trip.
- Dogs travel in the climate-controlled hold, so book that early too.
Always double-check
Airline pet policies change often and vary by route, aircraft and season. Confirm the current rules directly with Cathay Pacific before booking.
Similar airlines in Asia
Flying with a dog on Cathay Pacific: FAQ
What is the Cathay Pacific pet policy for dogs? ▾
Cathay Pacific carries dogs in the hold, but not in the cabin. Some breeds are restricted, and the Dog-Friendly Score is 32/100. Checked against the official policy in October 2026.
Can I bring my dog in the cabin on Cathay Pacific? ▾
No. Cathay Pacific does not allow dogs in the cabin, but dogs can travel in the hold as cargo.
Can my dog travel in cargo on Cathay Pacific? ▾
Yes. Cathay Pacific transports dogs in the temperature-controlled hold. Advance booking and an IATA-compliant travel crate are usually required.
Are there breed restrictions on Cathay Pacific? ▾
Yes. Cathay Pacific restricts certain breeds: Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) cats and dogs are only accepted in cargo from January to May and October to December on Hong Kong to London Heathrow, Melbourne and Singapore routes, and must be booked through an IPATA certified BOAS pet shipper. Check the breed rules for your dog before booking.
Does Cathay Pacific accept assistance dogs? ▾
Yes. Trained assistance dogs are accepted in the cabin, usually free of charge, with the required documentation. Contact Cathay Pacific in advance.