Shanghai Hongqiao Airport now has a waiting lounge for pets

Shanghai Hongqiao Airport now has a waiting lounge for pets, because apparently cats and dogs also deserve better airport vibes.

The new pet waiting lounge officially opened on June 18, 2026, inside Terminal 2, near check-in Island E beside the Juneyao Air check-in area. It is part of Shanghai Airport’s upgraded pet travel service and gives passengers flying with pets a separate space to rest before boarding instead of awkwardly waiting in the regular terminal with a nervous cat carrier or an excited tiny dog.

The lounge covers nearly 100 square meters and is free for eligible passengers. Inside, there are separate areas for cats and dogs, a reception desk, seats for pet owners, charging ports, pet storage lockers, cleaning and disinfection supplies, washing facilities, fresh-air purification, free disposable water bowls, cat litter, snacks, and small toys. Small dogs under 5 kg may apply to leave their carriers in the dog activity area, but they must stay on a leash.

The cat zone has climbing frames, cat beds, and enclosed rooms for more introverted cats who did not consent to becoming public airport content. Dogs get a grass-style activity area and quiet resting spaces.

There are still rules: passengers need a same-day boarding pass, approved airline pet travel documents, and each person can only bring one pet. But for China’s growing number of pet parents, this is a very welcome airport upgrade.