As long as you follow the rules with the shots (more than 30 days before) and the health certificate (no more than 10 days prior), that's all there is to it. My poor kitty has suffered through several flights in the last few years and it's always been a piece of cake (for me at least). Customs don't even notice you have an animal with you. Just remember, you have to go through the same process upon return (hate to have to leave kitty behind)!
Word of caution: you have to take the cat out every time you go through a security check. It is a pain in the butt and I've had less than friendly handling of mine; put a big sign on him or her that says 'killa' and see what they do! On second thought...
I don't think housing will be too much of an issue. Many people have dogs so I think most are accepting of animals.