Understanding Airbnb's Basic Pet Policies

Airbnb gives hosts significant autonomy in setting their own pet policies. While some listings warmly welcome cats, others might have strict no-pet policies. The key is to thoroughly review each listing's pet policy before booking.

Most pet-friendly Airbnbs will charge additional fees for cats, typically ranging from $15-$25 per night or a flat fee per stay. These fees help cover extra cleaning costs and potential wear and tear on the property.

Service Animals vs. Regular Pets

There's an important distinction between service animals, emotional support animals (ESAs), and regular pets in Airbnb properties:

Service Animals

Certified service animals, including cats, must be accommodated by hosts regardless of their standard pet policy. This requirement stems from Airbnb's Nondiscrimination Policy and various legal mandates. Hosts cannot charge extra fees for service animals.

Emotional Support Animals

The rules for emotional support cats fall into a gray area. While some jurisdictions require hosts to accept them, most locations leave this decision to host discretion. Where acceptance isn't legally mandated, hosts may charge regular pet fees for ESAs.

Common Host Requirements for Cats

When cats are allowed, hosts typically establish specific guidelines:

Up-to-date vaccination records
Recent flea treatments
No unattended pets in the property
Restrictions on furniture access
Additional cleaning fees or deposits
Advance notice of pet accompaniment

Regional Variations in Cat Policies

Local regulations significantly impact whether Airbnbs must accept cats. For example, states like New York and California have stricter requirements regarding emotional support animals, while other regions give hosts more flexibility in their pet policies.

International travelers should note that pet policies can vary dramatically between countries, and service animal certifications may not be universally recognized.

Tips for Successful Cat-Friendly Stays

To ensure a smooth Airbnb experience with your cat:

Always communicate with hosts about bringing your cat before booking
Get pet policies and fees in writing
Bring proof of vaccinations and flea treatments
Pack essential cat supplies to protect furniture
Take photos of the space upon arrival
Clean up thoroughly before departure

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Airbnb hosts have to allow cats as regular pets in their listings?

No, Airbnb hosts are not required to accept cats as regular pets. Each host sets their own pet policy, and they can choose to decline regular pets without violating any Airbnb policies.

Are Airbnb hosts required to accept emotional support cats, and do policies vary by location?

Requirements vary by location. Some jurisdictions, like New York and California, may require hosts to accept emotional support cats, while most areas leave this decision to host discretion.

Can hosts charge extra fees for guests bringing cats or emotional support animals to Airbnb rentals?

Yes, hosts can charge extra fees for regular pets and emotional support animals where not legally protected. However, they cannot charge additional fees for certified service animals.

What rules do hosts commonly set for guests staying with cats at Airbnb properties?

Common rules include keeping cats off furniture, requiring proof of vaccinations and flea treatment, prohibiting unattended pets, and restricting access to certain areas of the property.

How does Airbnb distinguish between service cats, emotional support cats, and regular pets in terms of guest accommodations?

Airbnb treats certified service animals as protected under their Nondiscrimination Policy and must be accommodated without extra fees. Emotional support cats and regular pets are typically subject to host discretion and may incur additional charges where allowed by law.

Remember to always read listing details carefully and communicate openly with hosts about bringing your cat. This ensures a comfortable stay for everyone and helps maintain positive relationships between pet owners and Airbnb hosts.

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