Overview

Your cat is family and you want him by your side when you travel. You may require a federally-approved health certificate to travel with your cat domestically/internationally by airplane, ship, or even car. Our veterinarians are federally-accredited to issue these certificates so they may accompany you on your domestic and international travels.

Why does my cat need a certificate to travel?

Domestic: Health certificates are federally-approved documents that certify your companion is healthy to travel, does not bear diseases potentially communicable to other pets or humans, and has had the appropriate immunizations so that she won’t pose a health risk to others. Feline health requirements may differ from state to state and even individual airlines may have their own companion animal travel requirements. Check with both your airline (or ship) and your destination state to see if either requires this documentation.

International: Only pets in good health that do not pose a risk of disease to other pets or humans are permitted to travel internationally. Your destination country may have specific health requirements that must be met before your cat can enter; these requirements may include current vaccinations, a passing health examination, and certification of freedom from disease.

When should I start the process?

Domestic: Because animal health requirements vary widely among destination states and transportation agencies, we encourage you to contact our practice as soon as you know your travel dates. Generally, but not always, certificates are issues within 30 days of travel and require that a cat is at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned before traveling.

International: International travel certificate requirements vary widely from country to country and may take several months to complete. We strongly urge you to determine the details of your travel arrangements well in advance of the actual travel so that we can comply thoroughly. Generally, but not always, certificates should be issued within 30 days of travel and cats should be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned.

How do I obtain a domestic health certificate?

Domestic: First, check with your travel agency and destination state(s) to see if a health certificate is required. In order to receive a health certificate, your cat must have a passing health examination and up to date vaccinations (especially rabies). Many states require freedom from parasites such as heartworm disease, or proof of preventative medications. Our certified veterinarians will work with you to satisfy the requirements for individual states and airlines; we suggest that you check the current travel needs at the USDA website: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/pet-travel/interstate-pet-travel

International: We will work with you to determine the specific health certificate requirements for your destination country. Because requirements are set by each individual country and may change frequently and without notice, we recommend you check the current requirements for your destination(s) on the USDA website: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/pet-travel/take-pet-to-foreign-country

We will conduct the appropriate test and examinations to determine if your cat has any disease or health risks that would preclude travel and verify he has all necessary immunizations for travel. Once these requirements are satisfied, we will issue the formal documentation indicating your friend is safe for travel.