Is it practical to bring a cat to Madagascar?

Only if relocating long-term to Antananarivo. Limited vet care and infrastructure make it challenging.

Do documents need to be in French?

Yes. All veterinary documents must be in French or have certified French translations. Madagascar is a Francophone country.

Is Madagascar strict about biosecurity?

Yes. Madagascar's unique ecosystem means authorities take biosecurity seriously. Expect thorough inspections on arrival.

Moderate Difficulty

CatAbroad

Complete Cat Import Guide · 2026

Madagascar

Vet requirements, airline rules & what to expect at the border

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Import Rules Step-by-Step Cost Quarantine City & Housing Vets & Health Exit Rules Videos FAQ Community Tips

Verified February 2026 · Checked against official government sources

Official Import Rules

Madagascar requires an ISO microchip, rabies vaccination, a veterinary health certificate issued within 5 days of travel, and an import permit from the Direction des Services Vétérinaires.

All documents must be in French or accompanied by a certified French translation.

Madagascar has strict biosecurity concerns due to its unique ecosystem.

Official DSV (Direction des Services Vétérinaires) Website

Medical Roadmap

Microchip (ISO 11784/11785)

Rabies vaccination (at least 30 days before travel)

Apply for import permit from DSV (3–4 weeks)

Health certificate within 5 days of travel (in French)

Government endorsement

Arrive at Ivato International Airport (TNR) Antananarivo

DSV inspection on arrival

Cost Breakdown

Microchip$50–80

Rabies Vax$40–80

Import PermitMGA 50,000–100,000 (~$10–20)

Health Cert$100–250

Flight$400–800 (connect via Paris, Nairobi, or Johannesburg)

Crate$100–400

Total Estimate$600–2,500

Quarantine Information

Possible inspection quarantine on arrival

City & Housing Tips

Antananarivo is the only city with meaningful infrastructure. Madagascar is primarily a nature/wildlife destination. Pet culture is minimal. Vet care is very basic.

Vets & Common Parasites

Very limited vet care. A few basic clinics in Antananarivo. For serious issues, evacuation to Réunion or South Africa may be necessary. Bring comprehensive medications and a first-aid kit.

Find Vets in Madagascar

Exit Rules — Leaving Madagascar

Exit requires a DSV-issued health certificate. Processing may take several days in Antananarivo.

Helpful Videos

Frequently Asked Questions

Community Tips

Quarantine is required in Madagascar. Plan ahead and book quarantine facilities well in advance.

Given Madagascar's complex import process, many relocators recommend hiring a licensed pet transport agent.

Have you moved to Madagascar 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.

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