Taking a cat abroad is very different from booking your own flight and packing a suitcase. There are rules to follow, paperwork to prepare, and, in general, far more to do than you might expect. Whether you are relocating for work, returning home or starting a new chapter overseas, planning your cat’s journey properly is essential.
Our guide breaks down the process step by step, so you know what to expect and how to avoid common problems. Airpets is here for pet owners in the UK who want practical advice before making the move.
Step 1: Start Planning Earlier Than You Think
One of the biggest mistakes people make when taking a cat abroad is leaving it too late. Some destinations allow travel within weeks, while others require months of preparation.
Depending on the country, your cat may need:
- A microchip
- Rabies vaccination
- Blood tests
- A waiting period before travel
- Government health certificates
- Import permits
In some cases, blood tests must be done at least three months before travel. If paperwork is not completed in the correct order, you may need to start again.
Airpets always recommends contacting a professional pet travel company, like our team, as soon as you know you may be moving.
Step 2: Understand Your Destination’s Import Rules for Cats
Every country sets its own rules for importing pets. There is no universal system, and airline rules are separate from government regulations.
For example:
- Some countries allow cats to enter with no quarantine
- Others require quarantine on arrival
- Certain destinations need import permits in advance
- Some will only accept pets arriving on approved airlines
If you are taking a cat abroad from the UK, it is vital to understand the full requirements of your destination country, not just the airline you plan to fly with. Our pet travel consultants track changing rules worldwide and manage the entire compliance process, reducing the risk of delays or refused entry.
Step 3: Veterinary Checks and Documentation
In terms of veterinary support, preparation is not just about vaccinations. Your cat will usually need:
- A microchip that meets international standards
- A rabies vaccination given after the microchip
- Additional vaccines depending on the destination
- An official health certificate completed shortly before travel
Many countries require paperwork to be endorsed by official veterinarians, and even small errors can cause problems at the airport.
Airpets works closely with Travelvet, our official veterinarian service, which helps ensure documentation is completed correctly and on time. Having our veterinary expertise on site at our Heathrow facility is also a major advantage when preparing cats for international travel.
Step 4: How Cats Travel on International Flights
Most cats travelling internationally do not fly in the cabin. Instead, they travel as manifest cargo in a secure, pressurised, temperature-controlled hold.
While this can sound worrying, it is the safest and most regulated way for pets to fly long distances. Airlines follow strict animal welfare guidelines, and professional handling is required at every stage.
Airpets is an IATA accredited agent, meaning they book directly with airlines rather than through third parties. This allows them to choose suitable routes, minimise layovers, and reduce overall travel time for your cat.
Step 5: Choosing the Right Travel Crate
Airlines will only accept cats travelling in crates that meet specific IATA requirements. Your crate must:
- Be the correct size for your cat
- Allow your cat to stand, turn and lie down comfortably
- Have proper ventilation
- Be secure and escape-proof
Using the wrong crate is one of the most common reasons pets are refused travel.
Airpets sources and supplies tried and tested travel crates that meet airline acceptance requirements every time. They also advise owners on crate training, which can significantly reduce stress for cats before travel.
Step 6: What Happens on Travel Day
Knowing what will happen on the day your cat travels can be very reassuring.
When travelling with Airpets, cats are cared for at the Heathrow Animal Lounge before their flight. This facility is exclusively for pets and is fully licensed with five-star ratings. Cats are monitored, kept comfortable, and handled by experienced animal professionals.
Our prime location on the Heathrow perimeter road minimises transit time, meaning your cat spends less time in their crate before departure.
Step 7: Arrival, Quarantine, and Aftercare
Arrival procedures vary widely depending on the destination. Some cats are released to their owners immediately, while others are transported to quarantine facilities for a set period.
Before travel, Airpets explains exactly what will happen when your cat arrives at the airport, including:
- Customs clearance
- Veterinary inspections
- Quarantine arrangements if required
- Options for the final delivery
We help owners prepare emotionally and practically for the arrival process, especially when moving abroad with a cat for the first time.
Step 8: Why Use a Professional Pet Travel Company?
Using an experienced pet travel company like Airpets allows you to focus on your own move, knowing your cat’s journey is being managed by specialists who prioritise safety and welfare.
With tens of thousands of pets transported successfully since 1966, Airpets has built its reputation on trust, expertise, and genuine care for animals. Our mission is simple: to reunite pets with families, no matter the distance.
If you are considering moving overseas and want peace of mind from start to finish, simply contact our team today.