Travel Smarter with Pets
Explore pet policies from Mexico to United States.
Vaccinations
Cats are not required to have proof of rabies vaccination for importation into the United States. However, CDC recommends that all cats be vaccinated against rabies, and your U.S. destination may have additional requirements.
Certifications
No health certification is required for cats entering the United States. However, cats must appear healthy upon arrival and may be subject to inspection by CDC officials.
Microchip
Microchips are not required for cats entering the United States, but they are recommended for easy identification.
Assistance Pets
Not specifically applicable to cats. However, general health inspection rules apply, and it is advisable to check with CDC or state authorities for any specific conditions.
More Info
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) requires that cats appear healthy upon arrival in the United States. Cats are subject to inspection at ports of entry and may be denied entry if they show evidence of a zoonotic disease. If a cat appears to be ill, further examination by a licensed veterinarian at the owner's expense might be required before the cat is allowed to enter the United States. All cats arriving in the state of Hawaii and the territory of Guam, even from the U.S. mainland, are subject to locally imposed quarantine requirements.