Official Import Rules
The US has no federal quarantine for cats. Cats must appear healthy on arrival.
Unlike dogs, there is currently no federal rabies vaccination requirement for cats, though individual states and airlines may require it. All cats entering by air must clear CBP (Customs and Border Protection) at the port of entry.
The CDC updated dog import rules in August 2024, but cat rules remain comparatively simple. A veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel is recommended and required by most airlines.
Medical Roadmap
Microchip
ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip.
Rabies vaccination
Current vaccination required, typically at least 21-30 days before travel.
Health certificate
Issued within 10 days of travel by accredited vet.
Government endorsement
May be required — check with destination authority.
Travel
Arrive at designated port with all original documentation.
Preparation Checklist
2 months before
1 month before
10 days before
Travel day
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
None. The US does not quarantine cats from any country provided they appear healthy on arrival.
City & Housing Tips
New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Portland are among the most cat-friendly US cities with abundant pet-friendly apartments (most landlords accept cats with a deposit), excellent veterinary care, and numerous pet supply stores. Many US apartments charge a pet deposit ($200–500) and monthly pet rent ($25–50). Websites like Apartments.com and Zillow allow filtering for pet-friendly rentals.
Vets & Common Parasites
The US has world-class veterinary care available in every major city. For international travel health certificates, you need a USDA-accredited veterinarian (find one at the USDA APHIS website). Emergency 24-hour clinics are available in most metro areas. Common parasites include fleas, ticks (particularly in the Southeast), heartworm, and roundworm. Year-round flea/tick prevention is recommended.
Find Vets in United StatesExit Rules — Leaving United States
Exit requirements depend entirely on the destination country, not the US. The USDA APHIS must endorse health certificates for most international destinations. Schedule an appointment with a USDA-accredited vet 10 days before departure, then submit documents to your local USDA APHIS Veterinary Services office for endorsement. Processing takes 2-7 business days. Some countries require the USDA endorsement to be followed by consular legalization.
Frequently Asked Questions
There is currently no federal requirement for cats, but most airlines and some states require it. Always carry proof of vaccination.
Yes, most US airlines allow cats in-cabin on domestic and international flights for a fee of $125–200.
While not strictly required by US federal law for cats, airlines require one and it's strongly recommended. Must be issued within 10 days of travel.
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 United States 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.