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Ellen, you left work the other day with two cats in a rolling carrier. I asked you if you took Metro and you said “yes.” I was under the impression you cannot take cats on public transit. Can you take cats on Metro?
Easy answer!
YES YOU CAN!
Can I bring my dog on Metrorail and Metrobus?
Service animals that assist people with disabilities are the only animals permitted to ride unconfined on Metrorail and Metrobus. However, a pet may be transported on Metrorail and Metrobus, provided it is carried aboard in a secure container from which it cannot escape.
Other popular methods of transit in our area:
Fairfax Connector Rules
Service animals are permitted on the bus
Other small animals are permitted only if transported in a secure container
MARC Train
Only small pets confined in closed carriers are permitted on MARC Trains. Service animals accompanying passengers with disabilities are welcome aboard.
Now mind you transporting a cat is never “that easy” (Ok, I lied… mine are super easy! But they are used to travel!) There can always be the worst case scenario of the “Cat Trifecta” (they explode from every orifice in a most spectacular way) and you will make instant enemies on public transit. So plan accordingly! If you have a cat that has a tendency to get “car sick or carrier sick”(and we are not just talking about puke) stick to a cab, but if you have a cat that is great in a carrier go ahead and give Metro a go!
Handy Metro Tips for Traveling With Your Cat
Always have an extra towel on hand (puppy training pads work great!) for an accident. Having a travel pack of baby wipes is ideal as well.
NEVER travel on Metro with a cat with diarrhea…NEVER.
Purchase a carrier that will not draw attention to you or your cat. This way you can move quickly through human traffic without lots of unnecessary attention and stress to your pet.
Do not travel during rush hour if your pet stresses easily.
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