Official Import Rules
Kenya requires an ISO microchip, current rabies vaccination (at least 30 days old), and a government-endorsed veterinary health certificate signed no more than 5 days before the date of departure from the country of origin. An import permit from the Director of Veterinary Services (DVS) is required — apply at least 3 weeks before travel.
Parasite treatment must be completed no more than 48 hours before the pet's flight. Arrival through Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) Nairobi.
Cats must enter Kenya as manifest air cargo only (with an airway bill) — in-cabin travel is not permitted. This is a mandatory requirement under the JKIA import procedure (permit VS01).
Medical Roadmap
Microchip (ISO 11784/11785)
Rabies vaccination (at least 30 days before travel)
Apply for import permit from DVS Kenya
Veterinary health certificate signed no more than 5 days before departure (required under Kenya's Animal Disease & Rabies Act, Caps 364 & 365)
Government endorsement of health certificate
Parasite treatment completed no more than 48 hours before the flight
Ship cat as manifest air cargo (with airway bill) — in-cabin travel is not permitted
Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO)
Inspection by DVS officer on arrival
Preparation Checklist
2 months before
1 month before
5 days before
Travel day
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
None if documentation complete
City & Housing Tips
Nairobi (Karen, Lavington, Westlands), Mombasa, and Naivasha are popular expat areas. Kenya has a well-established expat community, especially in Nairobi's leafy suburbs. Good vet care available in Nairobi.
Vets & Common Parasites
Good veterinary care in Nairobi with several expat-oriented clinics. The University of Nairobi's Faculty of Veterinary Medicine provides services. Outside Nairobi, vet care is limited. Tick-borne diseases are a major concern.
Find Vets in KenyaExit Rules — Leaving Kenya
Exit requires a health certificate from a DVS-approved vet and an export permit. Processing takes 3–5 working days. Apply at the DVS office in Nairobi.
Frequently Asked Questions
The leafy suburbs of Karen, Lavington, and Muthaiga are excellent for cats. Many expat homes have secure gardens. Good vet clinics are available.
In suburban Nairobi, not significantly. However, tick-borne diseases are prevalent. Use preventive treatments consistently. In rural areas, larger wildlife can be a concern for outdoor cats.
Moderate. A vet visit costs KES 2,000–5,000 (~$15–38). Nairobi has several well-equipped clinics.
Community Tips
Start the paperwork at least 4–6 months before your travel date. Airline pet policies change frequently — always confirm directly with your carrier close to departure.
Have you moved to Kenya with your cat? Share your experience and help other travellers.
CatAbroad Editorial
Researched by cat lovers with real international relocation experience. Checked against official government sources and updated regularly. Found an error? Let us know.