Sedatives are not recommended for kitties when flying unless it is alprazolam (xanax) (yes, it can be used on kitties) (avoid "Ace" derivates) and you will need to contact a veterinarian for more info and a prescription. You could also try a little melatonin which is over the counter.

I would not fly her cargo. Planes are notorious for killing animals, losing animals and not assisting when there is something wrong. As a behaviorist, I have seen a dog whose plastic crate was crushed on arrival from an airport and met with a client who found a fork in her pet's crate on pick up. Both dogs were extremely scared for months afterwards.

Airlines lose animals all the time when they are flown in luggage/cargo and they are never found.

Instead I would fly her on the cabin or drive -- and take a few days for travel. If she fits in the Sherpa bags or small bags for airlines (get the soft bags only) -- it will say "approved for airlines" or "airline approved" -- I doubt they will weigh her --but your vet may have to list a weight on a vet form.

If you can -- drive -- like I do and then you can use nice soft crate in the car. Give yourself a few days for the journey. I would avoid airline travel at all costs with pets, unless you can fly them in the cabin with you.

You will need a vet check (rabies verification). Airline approved carrier. And you will need to pay an additional fee. Most airlines that accept pets in the cabine allow one pet per passenger with a maximum of two animals total allowed in one flight.

I agree with Grisha -- a squeaky wheel will be helpful if you end up flying her in the luggage area.

Good luck!

Don't skip the sedatives. Even if she's calm in your regular life, an airplane is a big deal - lots of noise, people, smells, etc.

Ask the airline what proof of vaccinations they need for your cat. Do your best to get her under the seat, even if she's doped up and in a crate that's a little too small, it's better than being away from you.

If you do fly with your cat in the luggage area, remember that the squeaky wheel gets the grease. You have my permission to bug them about the status of your cat as much as you want to. Some animals do die or go missing during transport, especially when it's extra hot or cold so be extra cautious and check on how they regulate temperature for the area in which your cat will travel.

Good luck!