Is Nepal safe for cats?

Keep cats indoors. Rabies is a serious concern in Nepal, with stray dogs and monkeys being common carriers. Indoor cats do fine in Kathmandu apartments.

Will altitude affect my cat?

Kathmandu sits at 1,400m, which shouldn't cause problems. Higher-altitude areas like Pokhara (820m) are fine. True high altitude (>3,000m) is not recommended for cats.

Is vet care available?

Basic care in Kathmandu. For serious medical issues, Delhi (India) is the nearest city with advanced veterinary facilities.

Moderate Difficulty

CatAbroad

Complete Cat Import Guide · 2026

Nepal

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

Nepal requires a current rabies vaccination, a government-endorsed veterinary health certificate, and an import permit from the Department of Livestock Services. Microchip recommended.

Health certificate must be issued within 10 days of travel. Requirements can be inconsistently enforced — bring comprehensive documentation.

Arrival through Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) Kathmandu.

Official Dept. of Livestock Services Website

Medical Roadmap

Microchip (ISO 11784/11785)

Rabies vaccination (at least 30 days before travel)

Apply for import permit from Dept. of Livestock Services

Health certificate within 10 days of travel

Government endorsement of health certificate

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu

Cost Breakdown

Microchip$50–80

Rabies Vax$40–80

Import PermitNPR 1,000 (~$7)

Health Cert$100–250

Flight$150–300 (cabin regional) / $1,000–3,000 (cargo intercontinental)

Crate$50–300

Total Estimate$400–2,500

Quarantine Information

None if documentation complete

City & Housing Tips

Kathmandu and Pokhara are the main destinations. Nepal has a growing pet culture, especially among the urban middle class. Vet care is basic but available in Kathmandu. Very affordable living.

Vets & Common Parasites

Basic veterinary care in Kathmandu. A few clinics cater to expats. Outside the capital, vet care is very limited. Rabies is endemic in Nepal — this is critical. Keep cats indoors and vaccinations current.

Find Vets in Nepal

Exit Rules — Leaving Nepal

Exit requires a health certificate from a licensed vet. Processing varies — allow 2–3 working days.

Helpful Videos

Frequently Asked Questions

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 Nepal 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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