🐈 Taking a Cat to United States
Here's exactly what you need to bring a cat into United States 🇺🇸. The rules below are specific to cats; for the full country overview see the country hub.
Verified entry requirements (2026)
Dogs — always
- appear healthy;
- ≥6 months old;
- ISO microchip (15 digits), implanted before the rabies vaccination;
- CDC Dog Import Form (free, online; the receipt is valid 6 months).
From rabies-free / low-risk countries (EU, UK, Canada, etc. — NOT on the CDC high-risk list): the CDC Dog Import Form receipt is enough. Any airport/port/border. No titer, certificate or quarantine.
From a HIGH-risk country, vaccinated in the USA: also a Certification of US-Issued Rabies Vaccination (CDC-endorsed); via an approved port.
From a HIGH-risk country, vaccinated abroad: also a Certification of Foreign Rabies Vaccination and Microchip + EITHER a valid titer (CDC-approved lab; vaccine ≥30 days before the blood draw) OR a booked 28-day quarantine. Arrival by air only to 6 ports with a CDC-registered facility: JFK, LAX, MIA, SFO, ATL, IAD. Booking required.
Cats
CDC — no mandatory requirements, must appear healthy; USDA APHIS — no requirements; microchip not federally required (recommended). The destination state may require a rabies vaccination.
Breeds & health
No federal breed restrictions (state/city rules may apply). Extra USDA vet inspection (within 10 days of departure) for dogs from countries with New World screwworm or foot-and-mouth disease.
Flying
Small cats can fly in the cabin (airline weight limit applies); larger ones go in cargo.
Bringing a cat to the USA
The United States is one of the simpler destinations for cats. The CDC does not require a rabies vaccination for cats to enter the US, and there is no general quarantine — your cat simply needs to appear healthy on arrival. That said, many individual states and most airlines do require a current rabies vaccination, so it's strongly recommended.
A microchip isn't federally mandated for cats but is wise for identification and onward travel. Recent CDC changes tightened the rules for dogs; cats remain lighter, but always confirm your airline's and destination state's specific requirements before you fly.
Get ready for the trip
Travel essentials — handpicked for international pet moves.
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FAQ
Can my cat fly in the cabin to United States?
Small cats can fly in the cabin (airline weight limit applies); larger ones go in cargo.
Does my cat need a titer test?
No, a titer test is not required for United States.
How many pets can I bring?
Usually up to 5 per traveler.
Do cats need a rabies shot to enter the USA?
The CDC doesn't require rabies vaccination for cats, but many states and airlines do — and it's strongly recommended. Check your airline and destination state.
Is there quarantine for cats entering the USA?
No general quarantine for healthy cats; the cat must appear healthy on arrival.
Can I bring my cat to the USA?
Yes — it's one of the easier destinations for cats. Make sure your cat is healthy, ideally microchipped and rabies-vaccinated, and check airline and state rules.