Official Import Rules
Senegal requires a current rabies vaccination, a government-endorsed veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, and an import permit from the Direction des Services Vétérinaires. Microchip recommended.
All documents must be in French or accompanied by certified French translations. Arrival through Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS) Dakar.
Medical Roadmap
Microchip recommended
Rabies vaccination (at least 30 days before travel)
Apply for import permit from DSV
Health certificate within 10 days of travel (in French)
Government endorsement
Arrive at Blaise Diagne Airport (DSS)
Preparation Checklist
2 months before
1 month before
10 days before
Travel day
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
None if documentation complete
City & Housing Tips
Dakar (Plateau, Almadies, Ngor) is the main city. Senegal has a growing expat community, particularly in the Almadies and Ngor neighbourhoods. Basic vet care available. French is the official language.
Vets & Common Parasites
Basic vet care in Dakar with a few adequate clinics. The École Inter-États des Sciences et Médecine Vétérinaires (EISMV) in Dakar is a major regional veterinary school. Outside Dakar, vet care is very limited. Rabies is present.
Find Vets in SenegalExit Rules — Leaving Senegal
Exit requires a health certificate from a DSV-approved vet. Documents must be in French. Processing takes 2–3 working days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Senegal is Francophone — all veterinary documents must be in French or have certified French translations.
Yes. The Almadies and Ngor areas have good infrastructure and a growing expat community. Basic vet care is available.
Warm year-round. Indoor cats with AC do well. The dry season (November–May) is more comfortable than the humid rainy season.
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 Senegal 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.