Station Animale (Cargo 4 Zone)
About This Facility
Paris CDG's Station Animale is the dedicated animal handling facility for France's busiest airport, managing the arrival and transit of thousands of companion animals annually. As the primary hub for Air France and a major European connecting airport, CDG sees significant volumes of pet traffic from North America, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.
The facility provides holding areas for cats and dogs, veterinary assessment capabilities, and customs clearance services. France follows EU pet import regulations, so cats arriving from non-EU countries must clear veterinary border inspection before being released to their owners.
Physical Arrival Directions
The Station Animale is located in the Fret Zone 4 (Cargo 4) area of CDG Airport. From the passenger terminals, take a taxi or shuttle to the cargo area and follow signs for 'Fret Zone 4.
' This facility handles all animals arriving as cargo or checked baggage. If your cat traveled in the cargo hold (AVIH), you may collect them at the oversized baggage counter in Terminal 2 (varies by airline) or at the Station Animale if routed through cargo.
Confirm your collection point with the airline before arrival. Bring your cat's documentation and photo ID.
Practical Tips & What to Expect
For cats arriving from within the EU with a valid EU Pet Passport, clearance at CDG is typically straightforward and quick. For cats arriving from non-EU countries, expect a more thorough inspection of microchip, rabies vaccination, and any required titer test results.
The Station Animale operates during daytime hours (approximately 7am–11pm), so plan your cat's arrival within these windows if possible. If your cat is transiting through CDG to another destination, Air France ground handlers will manage the transfer between flights.
For long layovers, cats are held in the Station Animale with food, water, and individual holding areas.
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