Pet cats (live) 🇺🇸 United States
Cats may enter the US with proof of rabies vaccination if arriving from a country where canine rabies exists; additional CDC requirements apply.
Can I bring Pet cats (live) into United States?
Cats may enter the US with proof of rabies vaccination if arriving from a country where canine rabies exists; additional CDC requirements apply.
No quantity limit for personal pets; commercial import has separate rules
- Veterinary health certificate (USDA-accredited vet)
- Proof of rabies vaccination if from high-risk country
- CDC import form (if applicable)
Required at the destination customs authority
Full details
Under CDC regulations (42 CFR Part 71) and USDA APHIS 9 CFR Part 93, cats entering the US must appear healthy on arrival. Cats do not require a rabies certificate in all cases, but those arriving from high-risk countries for dog rabies must comply with CDC import requirements effective Aug 2024. A USDA-accredited vet health certificate is recommended and may be required by airlines. CBP officers can refuse entry to ill animals.
PENALTIES
- Fine: 300–10000 USD
- Civil penalty only
Leaving United States with pet cats (live)
Cat export from United States requires a veterinary export health certificate issued shortly before departure, an ISO microchip, and current rabies vaccination. Destination import rules drive the real timeline: rabies-titre tests with waiting periods for rabies-free jurisdictions (Australia, New Zealand, Japan), import permits, and quarantine bookings must be arranged months ahead. Airlines apply IATA Live Animals Regulations container requirements. Start from the destination's official import checklist and work backwards.
Get a vet health certificate within 10 days of travel and carry vaccination records. Declare your cat to CBP on arrival. Check CDC's current country risk list before departure.
No quantity limit for personal pets; commercial import has separate rules
- Veterinary health certificate (USDA-accredited vet)
- Proof of rabies vaccination if from high-risk country
- CDC import form (if applicable)
42 CFR Part 71 (CDC); 9 CFR Part 93 (USDA APHIS)
This page covers destination customs rules in United States. Whether you can carry pet cats (live) through security, in carry-on, or in checked baggage depends on airline and screening rules — see air travel rules.
Related rules
Pet cats (live) rules in other countries
Pet cats (live)
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
Cats entering the UK must be microchipped, rabies vaccinated, and accompanied by a valid Animal Health Certificate or GB Pet Passport.
Pet cats (live)
🇦🇺 Australia
Cats may only enter Australia from approved countries and must undergo mandatory quarantine of at least 10 days.