How do I transport a cat to Russia? - briefly
To transport a cat to Russia, you need to follow specific guidelines set by the Russian Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance (FSVPS). Ensure your cat has all necessary vaccinations and is microchipped before travel. You will also require an International Health Certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of departure.
How do I transport a cat to Russia? - in detail
Transporting a cat to Russia involves careful planning and adherence to specific regulations to ensure your pet's safety and well-being. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process:
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Microchipping: Before transporting your cat, ensure it has a microchip implanted. This is a small device inserted under the skin that contains unique identification information. Microchipping is mandatory for pet travel and helps in identifying your cat if it gets lost during the journey.
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Vaccinations: Your cat must be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before entering Russia. This vaccine should be administered by a licensed veterinarian, who will provide you with a certificate of vaccination. It is crucial to keep this document safe as it will be required during the travel process.
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Blood Test: After the rabies vaccination, your cat needs to undergo a blood test to confirm that the vaccine was effective. This test should be conducted at least 30 days after the vaccination but not less than three months before entering Russia. The results of this test must show a satisfactory antibody titer level.
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Veterinary Certificate: Obtain an official veterinary certificate from your cat's vet, stating that it is healthy and fit to travel. This certificate should be issued no more than 10 days before the date of travel. The certificate must include details such as the cat's microchip number, vaccination history, and health status.
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Pet Passport: If your country issues pet passports, ensure that your cat has one. This document includes all the necessary information about your pet's health, vaccinations, and travel history. The pet passport should be up-to-date and accompany your cat during the journey.
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Approved Airline Carrier: Choose an airline that allows pets on board. Some airlines have specific regulations regarding pet transportation, so it is essential to check their policies before booking your flight. Make sure to reserve a spot for your cat in advance, as there are usually limited spaces available for pets.
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Approved Pet Carrier: Invest in an approved pet carrier that meets the International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards. The carrier should be sturdy, well-ventilated, and comfortable for your cat. It is advisable to choose a carrier with enough space for your cat to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
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Pre-Travel Preparation: Before the journey, make sure your cat is familiar with the pet carrier. Allow it to spend some time in the carrier before the trip to reduce stress during travel. Also, ensure that your cat has access to water but restrict food intake a few hours before the flight to prevent motion sickness.
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Arrival in Russia: Upon arrival in Russia, your cat will undergo a quarantine period of up to 14 days at an approved facility. During this time, your pet's health will be monitored to ensure it does not pose any risk to public health. After completing the quarantine period and passing all necessary checks, you will be able to take custody of your cat.
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Post-Travel Care: Once you have reunited with your cat, provide a comfortable environment for it to adjust to its new surroundings. Ensure that it has access to fresh water and food, as well as a quiet space to rest. It is also recommended to schedule a check-up with a local veterinarian within the first few days of arrival to ensure your pet's health and well-being.
By following these detailed steps, you can successfully transport your cat to Russia while ensuring its safety and compliance with all relevant regulations.