How To Get A Cat Passport in 5 Easy Steps (Avoid Delays!)

Dreaming of exploring the world with your cat? Before you pack your bags, you’ll need to know how to get a cat passport. This essential document clears the way for a smooth trip, so you avoid last-minute surprises and keep your feline companion by your side.

Each country has its own rules, so sorting out the details ahead of time makes travel with your cat easier and stress-free.

Keep reading to learn the five simple steps to get a cat passport and enjoy new adventures with your cat.

CONTENTS—In this article, you will learn how to get a cat passport, including:

What Is a Cat Passport?

A cat passport is an official document that contains important information about your pet. It serves as proof that your cat meets the requirements of your destination country.

Typically, a cat passport includes:

• The owner’s essential details
• Microchip number
• Vaccination records
• Veterinary health certificate
• Parasite treatment records

In some countries, a cat passport is a booklet that looks like a human passport. Sometimes, it’s only a set of veterinary documents that pet owners can compile in a folder or envelope.

No matter the format, a cat passport ensures your feline companion is cleared for travel and meets all necessary entry requirements.

5 Steps to Obtain a Cat Passport

Getting a cat passport is a straightforward process when you follow these five easy steps.

Step 1: Check the Requirements of Your Destination

Every country has its own regulations for pet travel. Most of them have similar requirements for a pet passport, while others can be strict and will ask for additional paperwork.

The first thing you’ll need to do is research the following:

• Import/export permits required by your destination
• Quarantine policies (if applicable)
• Breed restrictions that may prevent your cat’s entry
• Any additional vaccinations or treatments 

Below are examples of the types of country-specific requirements you might encounter.

Country-Specific Cat Passport Requirements

• United Arab Emirates (UAE) – Requires an import permit from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), up-to-date vaccinations, and a microchip.

• United Kingdom (UK) – Non-EU pets need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) instead of a pet passport, proof of rabies vaccination, and tapeworm treatment (for dogs only).

• European Union (EU) – A valid cat passport, an ISO-compliant microchip, and rabies vaccination.

• United States (US) – Your cat doesn’t need a passport but needs to be vaccinated against rabies and a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian.

• Australia and New Zealand – These countries have some of the strictest regulations and often include mandatory quarantine when pets arrive.

Checking these requirements beforehand will save you time and prevent delays. 

Step 2: Schedule a Veterinary Visit

The next step is to visit a licensed veterinarian who can issue or assist you with obtaining a pet passport. The vet will check your cat’s health and discuss vaccinations and microchipping.

Most veterinary clinics are up-to-date with travel requirements for pets, so you can ask your vet for guidance or if they offer assistance.

Step 3: Microchip Your Cat

If your cat isn’t microchipped yet, you’ll need to schedule a pet microchipping procedure as soon as possible. This is one of the requirements for acquiring a cat passport.

A microchip is a small electronic device that has a unique ID number. The device is implanted by a qualified veterinarian under your cat’s skin. You’ll need to make sure the vet implants a microchip that complies with ISO 11784/11785 standards that most countries recognize.

The good news is, the procedure is minimally invasive, similar to a vaccine shot.

Step 4: Update Your Cat’s Vaccinations

Your cat’s passport also includes their vaccination records.

One of the most important vaccines many countries require is for rabies. Your cat must have rabies vaccination at least 21 days before your travel date.

Some countries require additional vaccinations, such as:

• UAE – Besides the rabies vaccine, your cat will also need vaccination against feline leukemia, panleukopenia, calicivirus, and rhinotracheitis. 

• EU countries – Rabies vaccination is mandatory, and some countries require parasite treatments, too.

These are only two examples, so be sure to research your specific travel destination.

Step 5: Get a Veterinary Certificate

A veterinary health certificate confirms that your cat is fit to travel. This is why the initial consultation is important—to know if your cat has a condition that you should treat first before planning a trip.

An accredited veterinarian must issue your cat’s health certificate within a specific timeframe before your trip. Usually, countries will require a health certificate that’s issued 10 days or less upon your arrival.

Preparing to Travel by Plane

While working on your cat’s passport, you should also check airline pet policies. Airlines often have varying requirements for pet carriers and rules about whether pets can travel in the cabin or cargo.

Choose an airline company with policies that will make you and your cat comfortable throughout the flight.

Here are some points to consider:

1. Carrier Requirements – Airlines will have specific dimensions and ventilation guidelines for pet carriers. That means you’ll want to choose an airline first, then buy the pet carrier they allow.
2. Cabin vs. Cargo – Not all airlines allow pets in the cabin and instead place them in cargo. Cargo is not the ideal way for your cat to travel, but it’s reported to be generally safe. If you opt for the cargo option, make sure that the airline has a climate-controlled space dedicated to pet travel.
3. Booking policies – Most airlines have limited spots for pets, so book your flight early to avoid delays and disappointment.

Getting Ready for Travel Day

Once everything is in order—your cat has a passport, you booked a flight, and purchased the appropriate-sized pet carrier (double check!)—you can now prepare for your trip with your cat!

You may already have planned on what to bring for yourself, but for your cat, here’s what you should pack to ensure a smooth travel day:

• Your cat’s essential needs, like food, water, and comfort items. (It’s best to expect delays and pack extra food, just in case.)
• Litter and disposable trays – Useful for long flights or layovers.
• Harness and leash – Required at some security checkpoints and useful for safe handling.
• Familiar blanket or bedding – Provides comfort and reduces stress.
• Calming aids – Pheromone sprays or vet-approved sedatives can help anxious cats.
• Waste bags and cleaning wipes – Handy for cleaning up any accidents.
• A collapsible water bowl – Makes it easier to keep your cat hydrated.

Be sure to have your cat’s passport and additional documents ready. Keep it in your carry-on bag to avoid forgetting and leaving it behind.

You’re ready for take-off!

With the right preparation, you can make travel day as stress-free as possible for both you and your cat.

Checking for Updates and Renewals

Your cat’s passport isn’t a one-time document. You’ll need to update and renew it whenever you travel.

Here’s what you must consider:

• Keep rabies and other required vaccinations current.
• Monitor the expiration dates of the health certificate and vaccination documents.
• Plan your cat’s passport renewals ahead of time if you travel frequently.
• Check the rules for layovers in the countries you’ll be passing through.

Keeping your cat’s passport up-to-date will help you avoid travel disruptions in the future.

Final Thoughts on How to Get a Cat Passport

Every cat owner should know how to get a cat passport to travel effortlessly.

Traveling with your cat will create lasting memories for both of you. It can be an incredible experience, but proper preparation is essential.

Securing a cat passport ensures a smooth journey, helps you avoid delays, and keeps your feline companion safe.

Staying up to date on vaccinations, understanding travel regulations, and planning ahead will make the process stress-free.

And if you need cat passport assistance, check with your vet or pet relocation services to help navigate the requirements. Now that you know how to get a cat passport, you can start preparing today to enjoy new adventures with your cat by your side!

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FAQs on Cat Passports and Travel

Here are answers to common questions about cat passports and travel.

1. How much does a cat passport cost?

The cost of a cat passport varies depending on the veterinary clinic you’ll get the requirements from, the specific services your cat needs, and the regulations of your destination country. Generally, it could cost around $100 to $500 in total.

2. How do cats travel on planes?

Cats can travel on planes by cargo transport, in-cabin travel, and checked baggage. It’s important to research the regulations of different airlines and base your choice on the regulations that work with you and your cat. It’s also important to check reviews from those who have traveled with their pets to know their first-hand experience with different airline companies.

3. What does a cat passport look like?

A cat passport will look different depending on your country. For example, an EU pet passport will appear as a blue booklet with an EU emblem. In other countries like the United States and UAE, there’s no standard pet passport, so the documents will need to be compiled together. 

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Next Steps

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