Official Import Rules
Peru requires a government-endorsed veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel. The certificate must confirm current vaccinations for both Feline Panleukopenia and Rabies (mandatory for cats aged 3 months and older). Listing rabies alone is insufficient per SENASA's stated requirements.
The certificate must also confirm that internal and external deworming was carried out within the 15 days prior to travel. This is a required line item that SENASA inspectors check on arrival — not merely a recommendation.
A microchip is recommended but not strictly required by Peruvian regulations. No import permit is needed for personal pet cats. SENASA inspects animals on arrival at Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) in Lima.
Peru is one of the easier South American countries for pet imports.
Medical Roadmap
Microchip recommended (not strictly required)
Rabies vaccination (at least 30 days before travel, mandatory for cats 3 months and older)
Feline Panleukopenia vaccination (current, mandatory — must appear on health certificate alongside rabies)
Internal and external deworming within 15 days before travel (required line item on health certificate)
Health certificate within 10 days of travel
Government endorsement of health certificate
No import permit required for cats
Arrive at Jorge Chávez Airport (LIM) in Lima
Preparation Checklist
2 months before
1 month before
10 days before
Travel day
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
None
City & Housing Tips
Lima (Miraflores, Barranco), Cusco, and Arequipa are popular. Lima has good vet care, especially in upscale districts. Peru is moderately cat-friendly with a growing pet culture in urban areas.
Vets & Common Parasites
Good vet care in Lima, especially in Miraflores and San Isidro. Outside Lima, vet quality drops considerably. Costs are very affordable. Altitude in cities like Cusco (3,400m) may affect your cat initially.
Find Vets in PeruExit Rules — Leaving Peru
Exit requires a health certificate from a SENASA-approved vet. Processing is usually same-day or next-day at the SENASA office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, one of the easier South American countries. No import permit needed, no quarantine, and straightforward documentation.
Possibly. If moving to highland cities like Cusco (3,400m) or Huaraz, your cat may need time to acclimatize. Lima is at sea level.
Very. A routine vet visit in Lima costs around S/50–100 (~$14–27).
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 Peru 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.