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Bringing your cat from Portugal to the United States

The United States has no federal rabies or import requirement for cats. The main things to prepare are set by your airline and the destination state: microchip, a health certificate and up-to-date vaccinations.

⏳ Allow 1–2 months
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There is no federal CDC requirement for cats entering the US (the 2024 rules apply to dogs only). However, your airline and the destination state usually require a microchip, a recent veterinary health certificate and up-to-date vaccinations — check both before booking.

Calculate your deadlines

Enter your travel date: we work back in time to give you the deadline for each step, personalised for Portugal → United States.

The 4 steps, in order

  1. 1. Implant an ISO-compliant microchip (recommended)

    Have an ISO 11784/11785 microchip implanted. Not federally required for cats, but expected by most airlines and useful for identification.

  2. 2. Up-to-date vaccinations (rabies recommended)

    Keep your cat's vaccinations up to date. Rabies vaccination is recommended and may be required by your airline or destination state, even though the CDC does not federally require it for cats.

  3. 3. Veterinary health certificate

    Obtain a recent veterinary health certificate. The exact form and timing depend on your airline and the destination state.

  4. 4. Travel to the United States

    The cat can enter at any port. Carry the health certificate and any documents your airline requires.

From another country?

Official sources:

Pawscleared provides preparation guidance based on official sources. Cats have no federal CDC import requirement, but airline and state rules apply. Always confirm with your airline, the destination state and official sources before travelling.