Does an in-cabin cat need a health certificate on United?

[Licorice]

I'm flying with a cat (in the cabin) from Chicago to San Francisco using United Airlines.

I just read the entire section on their website about traveling with animals. It does NOT state whether or not an in-cabin animal travelling in the US needs a health certificate.

It only says: "United and the USDA require that your pet have a health certificate issued by a veterinarian dated within 10 days of travel for INTERNATIONAL outbound and return trips. Animals traveling as checked baggage within the United States are not required to have such a health certificate."

I called their "Live Animal Specialist," and he wasn't sure but said I probably need a health certificate.

Now I'm wondering: (1) Do I really need a health certificate for my cat? and (2) If so, what information should the certificate contain? Are there any special forms? What exactly is needed?

Thank you!

[admin]

United does not state on their website that they require a health certificate for a pet traveling in-cabin, however, we would suggest it as a safeguard to avoid any problems at the gate. A health certificate is a document that is filled out by your veterinarian. Ask your vet if they have a standard one. If not, then you can find one here: http://pettravelstore.com/products/Pet-Passport-Airline-Veterinary-Certificate.html.
Susan

[Licorice]

Thanks, Susan. I just talked to them on the phone and they do NOT require a health certificate for in-cabin domestic travel anymore. They told me to check with the state to which I'm traveling. I did. California doesn't require a certificate either. Unfortunately, I already purchased the certificate form on this website for almost $10 on because it led me to believe I would need a certificate (and it didn't say that all vets have them anyway). Money wasted

[admin]

I have clarified the United Airlines product page and thank you for your input. If you will send me your order number and name, I will arrange for a refund.
Susan (sue@pettravel.com)