Greyhound Bus Pet Policy: Can You Bring Your Cat on Board?

If you’re thinking about bringing your cat along on a Greyhound bus journey, the answer is unfortunately no – at least according to official policy in 2024. In the past, Greyhound banned pets from its buses entirely. However, in recent years they had softened their stance and allowed only dogs on board, as long as they meet certain specific criteria.

While it may seem like cats might also be accommodated under this new policy, currently there is no official confirmation that cats are allowed on any of their buses. Despite this restriction, there have been instances where passengers have snuck their cats onto the bus or into the luggage compartment. Please note that this goes against Greyhound rules and could lead to consequences if caught.

However, passengers may transport a pet through Greyhound Package Express (GPX), which is a shipping service for packages and parcels by Greyhound but not a passenger service. This means that upon reaching your destination, you would need to pick up the cat from the GPX office.

Now that we understand that cats aren’t allowed onboard Greyhound buses except through GPX, let’s now dive into specifics concerning feline passengers using GPX.

If you’ve settled on using GPX to transport your cat(s), there are specific constraints you’ll need to consider carefully. For instance, while Greyhound does provide shipping services for some pets, cats might be more challenging due to their independent behavior and subsequent anxiety from being confined in small spaces.

Thus when preparing your cat for shipment through GPX with Greyhound Package Express, it’s important to ensure your cat is comfortable with confinement and separation (if it’s not traveling with you) before finalizing arrangements. To minimize stress and anxiety during transit, prepare them mentally and physically by placing treats inside an appropriately sized carrier. It’s worth noting that the cat must fit comfortably in a kennel or a pet carrier, and weigh no more than 100 pounds.

Additionally, you’ll need to carry specific documentation such as an up-to-date health certificate from your vet. This certifies that your pet is healthy and free from any contagious diseases or illnesses. The certificate should also include proof of immunization, especially if you’re traveling across state lines.

Imagine preparing your beloved feline for transit through GPX – note that while it may be challenging, following these tips can ensure a smooth and safe journey.

Many people love to travel with their pets, including their feline friends. However, before taking your cat on a Greyhound bus, it’s important to become familiar with the company’s pet policy. Greyhound allows only service animals on its buses, but there are exceptions for small cats and dogs that can fit in a carrier and be stored under the passenger seat.

Before bringing your cat on board, it’s important to ensure the animal is healthy and up-to-date on all vaccinations and has received flea and tick treatment. Additionally, a few days before traveling, it’s advisable to take your cat for short rides in the carrier to get them comfortable with being confined.

For example, if you plan to bring your cat on a five-hour Greyhound journey, you should aim to make a few shorter trips of an hour or two each to familiarize your feline friend with spending time in the carrier. This will help minimize anxiety for both you and your cat as well as prevent motion sickness issues.

During these practice runs, reward good behavior with encouragement, treats or toys so that they thrive within the restricted space provided within the carrier.

See Related: Greyhound Bus Travel Guidelines: Can You Bring Oxygen Tanks?

When choosing a carrier for your cat’s Greyhound journey, consider one that is well-ventilated so that your pet has access to fresh air throughout the trip. The carrier should be secure so that your feline friend doesn’t escape during transit but also roomy enough for them to stand up or lie down comfortably.

Here are some recommended carrier sizes based on common cat breeds:

Keep in mind that you should not place the carrier on the bus seat, but rather safely stage it under the passenger’s seat. This way your cat can travel without disturbing other passengers or causing any safety hazards.

See Related: Willer Bus Luggage Policy: Can You Bring One Luggage Under 240cm?

Are you planning on traveling with your cat on a Greyhound bus? Knowing how to manage your cat during the trip will ensure comfort and safety for both you and your feline friend. As cats can sometimes become anxious in unfamiliar surroundings, bringing extra bedding, treats, toys, and calming medications can provide a sense of familiarity and security for your pet. Additionally, proper ventilation during the ride is crucial; ensure that your cat’s carrier has adequate air circulation throughout the journey.

For example, some cats might prefer covering their carriers with blankets to limit visual stimuli or even prefer being held during bus rides. Whatever method works best for you should be tried out before embarking on longer journeys.

Remember that being overly attentive to your cat’s needs could cause disruptions in the travel experience of other passengers. So, while it’s essential to prioritize your cat’s wellbeing, it’s also equally significant to respect fellow travelers and comply with Greyhound policies.

That said, what are Greyhound’s policies regarding pet transport, and what are their expectations from passengers traveling with pets?