How to send a cat abroad? - briefly
To send a cat abroad, you will need to follow specific guidelines set by the destination country's customs and agricultural departments. This typically involves obtaining a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian and ensuring your cat's microchip or tattoo is up-to-date. Additionally, you may need to use an approved carrier and comply with any quarantine requirements upon arrival.
How to send a cat abroad? - in detail
Sending a cat abroad involves careful planning and adherence to specific regulations to ensure your pet's safety and well-being during the journey. Here is a detailed guide on how to accomplish this:
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Veterinary Check-Up: Begin by scheduling an appointment with your veterinarian. They will examine your cat for any potential health issues and provide necessary vaccinations and treatments. The vet will also issue a health certificate, which is typically valid for 10 days from the date of issuance.
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Microchipping: Ensure your cat is microchipped with a device that meets ISO standards (11784 or 11785). This is mandatory in many countries and serves as a permanent form of identification. If your cat already has a microchip, verify it complies with international standards.
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Vaccinations: Your cat must be up-to-date on vaccinations, particularly for rabies. The rabies vaccine should be administered at least 21 days before travel to allow sufficient time for the antibodies to develop. Other vaccines may also be required depending on your destination country.
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Blood Test: In some cases, a blood test may be necessary to confirm that the rabies vaccine has been effective. This is usually performed at least 30 days after the vaccination and at least three months before travel.
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Pet Passport or Animal Health Certificate: Depending on your destination country, you may need an EU Pet Passport or an official veterinary certificate (known as an Animal Health Certificate). This document includes details about your pet's health status, vaccinations, and any treatments received.
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Approved Carrier: Select a carrier that is airline-approved and meets the International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards for live animal transport. The carrier should be well-ventilated, secure, and comfortable for your cat. Ensure your cat can stand up, turn around, and lie down naturally inside the carrier.
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Familiarization: Introduce your cat to the carrier before the trip. Leave it out with the door open so your pet can explore and get accustomed to it. This will help reduce stress on the day of travel.
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Flight Booking: Contact the airline to inform them that you will be traveling with a pet. Most airlines require advance notice and may have specific requirements or restrictions regarding pet transport. Ensure your cat's carrier meets the size and weight limitations set by the airline.
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Travel Documentation: Gather all necessary documents, including the health certificate, vaccination records, blood test results (if applicable), microchip information, and any required permits or certificates for your destination country. Keep these documents organized and easily accessible during travel.
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Food and Water: Prepare a small amount of your cat's regular food and water for the journey. Place these in a leak-proof container that can be securely attached to the carrier. This will help maintain your pet's routine and provide comfort during transit.
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Comfort Items: Include familiar items such as a blanket or small toy in the carrier to make your cat feel more at ease. Avoid putting anything that could potentially cause discomfort or stress.
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Arrival Preparation: Research and understand the quarantine or observation period requirements for your destination country, if any. Some countries may require your pet to be quarantined upon arrival for a specified duration to monitor their health.
By following these detailed steps, you can ensure a smooth and safe journey for your cat when traveling abroad. Always consult with your veterinarian and the relevant authorities to stay updated on the latest regulations and requirements specific to your destination country.