The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) was in for a shock last week when a traveler attempted to put their pet cat through the X-ray machine at the Norfolk International Airport in Virginia. TSA spokesperson Lisa Farbstein posted about the incident on Twitter on Friday.
“Just when you thought it was safe to bring your pet on a trip…A traveler left their pet in its travel carrying case at a @TSA checkpoint this morning at @NorfolkAirport,” Farbstein tweeted. “Attention pet owners: Please do not send your pet through the X-ray unit. Cat-astrophic mistake!”
The cat and the traveler were both required to go through the TSA screening the proper way after agents saw the X-ray image. Farbstein replied to a follower asking if the cat is OK, saying “Yep.”
The TSA then posted a video on Instagram showing travelers how to properly go through security with their pet. The video starts with an image of the cat’s X-ray, with the words “Don’t do this” underneath, and then shows a man remove his dog from a pet carrier and walk through the TSA checkpoint.
Farbstein also mentioned that travelers with cats can request it be screened in a private room, just in case the owner has an escape artist on their hands.
It is important to remember that pets should never be put through the X-ray machine, as it can be dangerous to their health and safety. While it may seem like a good idea to put your pet through the X-ray machine, it is important to remember that it is not the safest option. Travelers should always request a private screening if they are unsure how to go through security with their pet.
