Varies by route and aircraft
Airline dog policy
Cathay Pacific
Cathay Pacific does not accept any pets in the passenger cabin — all dogs and cats must travel as checked baggage or as cargo via Cathay Cargo. Based at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), the airline is a key carrier for pet transport across the Asia-Pacific region. Hong Kong's AFCD (Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department) operates a dedicated animal inspection facility at HKG, though transit through Hong Kong with a pet requires advance planning due to the territory's permit requirements.
Book early and confirm aircraft acceptance.
Under-seat dimensions can vary by aircraft.
Fees can change by region and currency.
Booking tip
Book pet travel through Cathay Pacific's reservations team at least 48 hours before departure. The airline requires a rigid IATA-compliant crate and all destination-country documentation at check-in. If you are transiting through Hong Kong, be aware that even transit animals may require AFCD permits. Direct routing is always preferable when travelling with a dog via Cathay Pacific to avoid the complexity of Hong Kong transit permits.
Why it can work
Cathay Pacific provides excellent connectivity across East and Southeast Asia, Australasia, and to major European and North American cities. The airline's cargo facilities at HKG are modern and professionally managed. For pet owners in the Asia-Pacific region, Cathay is often the most convenient carrier for longer-haul routes. Cathay Cargo handles live animal shipments with dedicated temperature-controlled facilities.
Restrictions
No cabin pets. Brachycephalic breeds face restrictions and may be refused. Pets are not accepted on certain aircraft types or ultra-long-haul routes. Hong Kong requires specific import permits from AFCD for all arriving animals, including those in transit. Pregnant animals are not accepted. The airline may refuse live animal transport during extreme heat or cold.
Dog-owner notes
Hong Kong's AFCD requires advance import permits for all dogs entering the territory, including those in transit. Processing can take several weeks, so plan well ahead if your routing goes through HKG. Cathay Cargo can be contacted at cathaycargo.com for live animal shipments. For export from Hong Kong, AFCD export licences are required. Cathay Pacific customer service: +852 2747 3388.
Final check before paying
Confirm the exact aircraft, route, dog breed, carrier size, temperature rules and destination import law directly with the airline. A country can allow dogs while a specific airline or aircraft refuses them.