Moving abroad with your cat! A thorough guide to the preparations necessary for moving and living there

The World of Living with Pets

Moving abroad is a major life decision, and given the bond you share with your beloved cat, it is natural to want to bring it along. However, there are strict regulations governing the international movement of pets, and careful preparation and time are required.

This article provides detailed information on what you need to know about moving abroad with your cat in peace, from preparation to life in the country. Based on the knowledge of experienced experts and the voices of actual immigrants, we will guide you on the path to success.

Preparation before moving abroad: essential items and procedures

Checklist of preparations for emigrating abroad

A **minimum of 3-6 months of preparation** is required from the decision to move abroad to the actual destination. The following important items must be planned for.

Microchipping: the international standard for proof of identity

Microchip Registration Certificate Sample Image source: Ministry of the Environment

It is mandatory in many countries,Microchip installation in accordance with ISO standardsIt is. This is an ultra-compact electronic label implanted subcutaneously that allows for international identification.

The installation procedure is as follows

1. purchase an ISO-compliant microchip at a veterinary clinic (about 3,000 yen)
2. implanted near the neck by a veterinarian
3. issuance and storage of fitting certificates
4. periodic reading checks

From June 2022, it will be mandatory in principle for dogs and cats sold in pet stores and other stores in Japan to be fitted with the device. Registration of owner information within 30 days of installation is also mandatory.

Rabies Vaccination: Basic Requirement for International Migration

rabies vaccination certificate

Rabies is a serious infectious disease that causes more than 50,000 deaths annually worldwide and is fatal to cats. For this reason, vaccination is mandatory in many countries.

The standard vaccination schedule is as follows

1. 1st dose at 91 days of age or older
2. second inoculation after an interval of at least 30 days
3. must be completed at least 30 days prior to travel
4. secure storage of inoculation certificates

Many countries also require negative proof of a "rabies antibody test. The test is conducted at least 180 days after the second vaccination, so the first vaccination must be completed 7 months prior to travel.

Obtain import/export permits and arrange transportation: check country-specific requirements

The documents and requirements vary greatly depending on the destination. Below are some examples:

Tips- U.K.: Import/export permit not required, proof of rabies vaccine required
- EU countries: proof of non-infection with rabies and leptospirosis required
- Australia: Strict quarantine system, temporary mooring required
- Hong Kong and Singapore: prior import license required

Two to three months prior to travel, ensure that the following items are checked

POINT- Confirmation and booking of mode of transport (carry-on / baggage / cargo)
- Preparation of IATA compliant crates
- Securing necessary hygiene supplies (pet sheets, water bottles, etc.)
- Climate change equipment (clothing, harnesses, etc.)

Preparation for local acceptance: preliminary environmental checks

**Securing pet-friendly accommodation** is essential for a smooth start to life abroad. We recommend the following preparations

- Listing of pet-friendly properties and hotels
- Research local pet sitting services
- Confirmation of a temporary storage location in case of emergency
- Gathering information on nearby veterinary hospitals

Animal Import Regulations and Documentation Requirements: Understanding Country Specific Requirements

Overview of International Animal Import Regulations

Import regulations in various countries tend to become stricter each year, and the following conditions are common

Tips- Obtaining prior import permits (required in some countries)
- Valid rabies vaccination certificate
- Government-issued animal quarantine certificate
- Compliance with quarantine period (maximum 180 days)
- Negative proof of specific infectious disease
- Proof of ISO-standard microchip installation

Transporting Cats by Air: For Safe Travel

How to transport pets by air

It is important to choose a transportation method that puts your cat's safety and comfort first. This section describes the main transportation options offered by airlines and the features of each.

Carry-on (cabin) transport

It is the least stressful transportation method. The following conditions must be met

POINT- Cat weight: usually no more than 5-8 kg
- Carry-on baggage: within carry-on baggage size regulations
- Passenger limit: 1 animal per passenger
- Reservations: Must be secured in advance (first-come, first-served)

Cabin bags must conform to airline-specified standards and have the advantage of being visible at all times while in transit. However, due to the limited number of cabin bags that can be accepted, it is strongly recommended** to make arrangements at the same time the ticket is booked.

Cargo Transportation

This is an option if you do not meet the carry-on requirements. Special attention should be paid to the following

POINT- IATA-certified robust hard cage used
- Ensure proper ventilation and safety
- Prepare necessary water supply and feeding facilities
- Transportation in temperature-controlled cargo holds

Because long flights can be stressful for cats, it is important to prepare for the following

- Advance veterinary consultation (prescription of light sedatives if needed)
- Create a comfortable environment (favorite blanket, etc.)
- Ensure adequate hydration
- Confirmation of emergency response procedures

Pre-training for transportation

For smooth transfers, the following training will be conducted step-by-step

  1. Familiarization with the cage environment: placement of toys and preferred bedding
  2. Short stay practice: gradually extend time
  3. Simulation of the environment on the move
  4. Positive associations: rewards and skinship
  5. Aim for a steady stay of about 30 minutes.

Finding a local veterinarian and pet care system

Veterinary Services Abroad

Selection of a reliable veterinary hospital

Securing local medical care is a top priority. Use the following methods to gather information:

- Referrals from the Japanese community
- Use of information websites for expatriates
- Database of Veterinary Medical Associations in each country
- Medical Information Service for Japanese Residents

The selection will place particular emphasis on the following points

- Availability of 24-hour support
- Availability of Japanese language support
- Confirmation of emergency transport service
- Enrollment of medical specialists

Medical Insurance and Support Services

As a major travel insurance supplement:- 24-Hour Veterinary Consultation Hotline
- Multilingual Interpretation Services
- Emergency transport assistance
- Specialist Referral Service

Local pet supply procurement

Since it is often difficult to obtain Japanese products overseas, the following measures are important:

- Check the location and selection of major pet stores
- Consider using online shopping sites
- Ensure regular import routes from Japan
- Preliminary investigation and trial of local alternatives

In particular, check in advance how to obtain the following necessities locally:
- Cat food usually used
- Favorite cat litter
- Medicine and supplements
- Grooming Supplies

Cat Health Care and Preventive Medicine

Cat Health Care Abroad

Local-specific infectious disease control

Overseas, one should also be aware of infectious diseases that are rare in Japan:

Diseases requiring focused prevention:- Feline leukemia virus infection (FeLV)
- Feline immunodeficiency virus infection (FIV)
- Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP)
- Various parasitic diseases

Manage immunization schedule

Immunization schedule management

The following vaccinations should be continued as appropriate after travel:

Standard vaccination schedule:- Rabies prophylaxis: once a year
- Mixed vaccine: once a year
- Leukemia vaccine: once a year
- Other locally recommended vaccines: Consult with veterinarian

Stress management due to environmental changes

Cats are sensitive to environmental changes. They need special care in adapting to their new environment.

Symptoms to watch for as signs of stress:

- Excessive squealing or aggressive behavior
- Anorexia and overeating
- Disturbance of defecation habits
- Excessive grooming
- Behavior that tends to be hidden

The following are recommended as countermeasures

POINT- Reproduction of a familiar environment
- Dedicated space
- Maintaining a regular rhythm of life
- Use of stress-relieving products
- Ensure sufficient time for skin-to-skin contact

Trouble-shooting and emergency preparedness

Emergency Response Measures

Physical condition at the time of travel

Main risks and countermeasures for long trips:

Assumed Risks:
- dehydration
- Panic due to stress
- Poor physical condition and loss of appetite
- Effects of environmental temperature changes

Response measures:

  • Prior consultation with a veterinarian
  • Consider medication as needed
  • Creating a comfortable travel environment
  • Prepare for adequate hydration

Prevention of accidents on site

Ensuring your safety in a new environment is of paramount importance. Thoroughly implement the following measures

Tips
- Thorough measures to prevent escape
- Elimination of hazardous materials
- Clarify emergency contact information
- Insurance Considerations

summary

Moving abroad with your cat requires careful preparation and careful planning, but by taking the appropriate measures, you can realize a safe and comfortable life abroad. PetAir JPN provides support to make these complicated procedures simple and reliable.

Our professional staff, well versed in the import regulations and health standards of each country, provide attentive service with the health and safety of our customers and their pets as our top priority.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How much preparation time is required?
A1: Usually 3 to 6 months is the standard. We recommend starting preparation at least 7 months in advance, especially if a rabies antibody test is required.
Q2: What is the estimated cost?
A2: We can provide you with a detailed estimate including processing fees, transportation costs, inspection fees, etc., which vary greatly depending on the destination and transportation method.
Q3: Is it safe for older cats?
A3: A veterinarian will perform a physical examination and decide whether or not the animal can be moved based on its individual condition. If necessary, we will also propose a special care plan.
Q4: Do I have to worry about local medical care?
A4: We will introduce you to a network of reliable veterinary hospitals in each country to support smooth access to medical services.

🌏 Toward Safe Overseas Migration: PetAir JPN's Total Support" 🐾

Moving abroad with your cat is a major project that requires careful preparation and expertise. As explained in this article, the following factors are keys to success

POINT- Ensure adequate preparation time (minimum 3-6 months)
- Accurate understanding of various regulations and requirements
- Thoroughly manage your cat's health and take precautionary measures
- Preparation of local living environment
- Emergency Response Plan Development

Ensuring these preparations will help you start your new life with your cat smoothly. In particular, pay close attention to the following points:

  1. Pre-departure medical examination and required vaccinations
  2. Stress reduction measures during transportation
  3. Ensure local medical system
  4. Procurement plan for daily commodities

PetAir JPN can provide consistent support for these complex procedures.

  • Providing the latest regulatory information in each country
  • Preparation of necessary documents and procedures on behalf of the client
  • Proposal of optimal transportation methods
  • Coordination of local reception arrangements

Please feel free to consult with us at any time.add a friend

Please share your experiences and opinions!

Do you have any experiences or questions about traveling abroad with your pet?

If you have actually experienced this, please share with us the points you took care of in your preparation and any problems you had while traveling. We also welcome questions from those who are thinking of traveling to Japan in the future.

Is it possible to move to this country? How long do I have to prepare?

Please feel free to comment on any concerns you may have, such as

Your comments will be of great help to others who are struggling with the same issues. Please share your thoughts and questions in the comments section below!

Risako Seto

Since childhood, she has been fascinated by animals and entered the field of veterinary medicine to work in a job that protects their lives. As a certified pet nurse and an expert in international pet transportation, I have helped many pets and their families take a new step forward.
We strive to offer transportation plans that are tailored to each individual animal, which we can only do because of our medical knowledge and deep love for animals. We support optimal international transportation with your pet's mental and physical health as our first priority.

[Qualifications]

pet nurse
Animal Health Technician (AHT)
Veterinary Technician (VT)

At PetAirJPN, he is responsible for supporting safe and comfortable transportation of pets as an international pet transportation consultant.

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