Amtrak quietly expanded its pet policy in 2022 and cats are now allowed on many routes. It's one of the most underrated ways to travel with a cat — no altitude stress, no cargo risk, more space than an airplane, and you can actually check on your cat during the trip.
Here's everything you need to know before you book.
Important: Amtrak's pet policies, routes, and fees change frequently. Everything in this guide reflects 2026 information — always verify directly with Amtrak at amtrak.com or by calling 1-800-USA-RAIL before booking.
Does Amtrak Allow Cats?
Yes — on select routes. Amtrak's pet program allows small cats and dogs in the cabin on trips up to 7 hours. Your cat travels with you, not in a separate car or cargo hold.
Amtrak Pet Policy: Quick Reference
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Routes allowed | Select short-distance routes only (under 7 hours) |
| Pet fee | $26 each way (verify before booking) |
| Max pets per train | 5 pets total per train |
| Carrier size limit | 19" x 14" x 10.5" (soft-sided) |
| Cat must stay in carrier | Yes, entire trip |
| Carrier under seat | Yes, must fit under the seat in front of you |
| Sleeper cars | Not allowed in sleeper accommodations |
| Long-distance routes | Not allowed |
Which Amtrak Routes Allow Pets?
Amtrak's pet program covers most short-distance corridor routes. Major ones that have historically allowed pets include:
- Northeast Regional (Boston – Washington D.C.)
- Acela (Boston – Washington D.C.) — confirm availability when booking
- Pacific Surfliner (San Diego – San Luis Obispo)
- Capitol Corridor (San Jose – Auburn)
- Cascades (Eugene – Vancouver, BC)
- Keystone Service (New York – Harrisburg)
- Empire Service (New York – Buffalo)
Not allowed: Long-distance trains like the California Zephyr, Coast Starlight, or Empire Builder, or any route over 7 hours.
Routes and availability change. Always confirm your specific train allows pets when booking — don't rely on this list alone.
How to Book a Cat on Amtrak
- Book your ticket online or by phone
- Call Amtrak at 1-800-USA-RAIL to add your pet — you cannot add pets online
- Pay the pet fee per trip
- Confirm the specific train allows pets (only 5 spots per train)
- Book early — pet spots fill up, especially on popular corridor routes
What the Experience Is Actually Like
The first time Atlas rode Amtrak, I expected it to be harder than flying. It wasn't. The motion is smoother than a car, the noise level is lower than an airplane, and there's no pressure change. He settled within the first 30 minutes and slept for most of the trip. The biggest challenge was the boarding process — busy stations with lots of foot traffic and noise before you even get on the train.
What owners consistently report:
- Most cats settle faster on trains than in cars or planes
- The rhythmic motion seems to have a calming effect
- Fellow passengers are generally curious and friendly, not annoyed
- Conductors vary — some check your pet reservation closely, some don't
- The carrier size limit is enforced more strictly than on some airlines
How to Prepare Your Cat for an Amtrak Trip
- Carrier train in advance. The carrier must stay closed the entire trip. Your cat needs to be comfortable in it for hours. See: How to Get a Cat Used to a Carrier
- Fast 4–6 hours before departure. Reduces motion sickness and accidents in the carrier.
- Spray the carrier with Feliway 30 minutes before you leave home.
- Bring a worn t-shirt or familiar blanket inside the carrier.
- Exercise your cat the morning of the trip. A tired cat is a calmer cat.
- Talk to your vet about gabapentin if your cat is highly anxious. See: Best Sedatives and Calming Aids for Cat Travel
What to Pack for an Amtrak Trip With Your Cat
- Soft-sided carrier that fits under the seat (verify current size limits with Amtrak)
- Absorbent liner inside the carrier
- Small collapsible water bowl for longer trips
- Familiar blanket or worn t-shirt
- Any medications
- GPS tracker attached to the carrier
Amtrak vs Flying With a Cat
| Amtrak | Flying | |
|---|---|---|
| Pet fee | Lower (verify current rate) | $95–$125 each way |
| Altitude stress | None | Yes (cabin pressure) |
| Motion smoothness | Very smooth | Turbulence possible |
| Trip duration limit | 7 hours max | No limit (cabin) |
| Route coverage | Limited corridors | Nationwide |
| Overall stress level | Lower for most cats | Higher for most cats |
For routes where Amtrak is an option, it's almost always the better choice for your cat. Lower stress, lower cost, smoother ride.
Travel Gear for Amtrak
- Soft-sided carrier — verify current Amtrak size limits before purchasing
- GPS tracker — attach before boarding
- Feliway spray — spray carrier 30 minutes before departure