🐈 Taking a Cat to Spain (EU)

Prepared by the Animals Productions editorial team. See about us and our editorial standards.

Here's exactly what you need to bring a cat into Spain (EU) 🇪🇸. The rules below are specific to cats; for the full country overview see the country hub.

Verified entry requirements (2026)

1. ISO microchip — before the rabies vaccination.
2. Rabies vaccination — ≥12 weeks; wait ≥21 days.
3. Titer test — only from an “unlisted” country (≥30 days after vaccination, ≥90 days before travel, ≥0.5 IU/ml). Not needed from the EU / listed countries.
4. Certificate — non-EU: EU Animal Health Certificate (10 days, authority-endorsed; USDA APHIS from the USA). EU / return: EU pet passport.
5. Tapeworm treatment — not required.
6. Breeds — no import ban. Spain regulates “potentially dangerous dogs” (PPP) via a licence (RD 287/2002): Pit Bull, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire, Rottweiler, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Tosa Inu, Akita Inu and crosses — municipal licence, insurance, muzzle and a lead under 2 m. (Reform under Ley 7/2023 — verify current municipal requirements.)
7. Quarantine — none if met; under 15 weeks not admitted; enter via an authorised point (PEV) with a declaration.

EU 2026: new Regulation (EU) 2026/131 applies from 22 Apr 2026; old-format Animal Health Certificates are valid only if issued before 1 Oct 2026.

Flying

Small cats can fly in the cabin (airline weight limit applies); larger ones go in cargo.

FAQ

Can my cat fly in the cabin to Spain (EU)?

Small cats can fly in the cabin (airline weight limit applies); larger ones go in cargo.

Does my cat need a titer test?

Yes — and the waiting period can be long, so start early.

How many pets can I bring?

Usually up to 5 per traveler.

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