The PLEA: Cats and the Law

It is common for people to bring their pet along when they move to a new country. In response to an increasingly mobile world, regulations on taking animals abroad have been updated. It used to be that pets would often spend months in quarantine upon arrival in a new country. Today, so long as the pet is healthy, has been given particular vaccinations, and the proper paperwork is completed, the pet can immediately join its family in a new country.

For example, if you are moving to the United Kingdom, chances are your cat can move with you. The UK requires that the cat be microchipped, vaccinated for rabies, and have a certificate of health from a veterinarian. The cat must arrive in the UK no more than five days before or after your arrival, and must arrive on an approved airline via an approved route.

The rules for bringing your cat to most European Union countries are very similar to the rules for the United Kingdom.

In most cases of moving your cat overseas, the veterinarian examination documents must be certified by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). The CFIA is the government agency responsible for the movement of animals across Canada’s borders. Certification can take a few weeks, so be sure to build that into your moving schedule. Find the CFIA’s official veterinarian examination form on their website.

Moving a cat to the United States, with the exception of Hawaii, is relatively simple. Cats are inspected by border agents to ensure that they are in good health. Some states also require proof of rabies vaccinations. For these reasons, it is a good idea to have documentation of your cat’s vaccinations and a certificate of health from your veterinarian, to present to the border agent.

Of course, be sure to talk to your veterinarian before any big move. Also, if you are flying, check with the airline to ensure that they are able to carry your pet, and that your pet carrier meets their requirements.

If this all seems overwhelming, consider hiring some expert help. Several agencies in Canada specialise in moving pets to new countries. They can help with the paperwork, find the right airline, and help ensure the journey is as good as possible for your cat.