Read on to find out more about how to transport cats to New Zealand, including information about quarantine, timelines, and vaccine requirements. Also, we recommend taking a look at our simple guide to bring dogs and cats to New Zealand for more insight on the process, import permits, and quarantine.
If you’re ready to learn more about pricing, logistics, and other travel details, get started by completing our consultation form. Our team is ready to assist you!
Attention: Precise regulations can change at any time, so be sure to double check with the appropriate authorities or with your PetRelocation Consultant to find the most current and accurate information available.
Before beginning the import procedures, make sure that your vet is approved by the Government Veterinary Authority in the country of origin. If a cat is departing the United States, the vet will need to be USDA Accredited.
Determine Eligibility
Cats may be imported into New Zealand from approved countries that meet the requirements outlined by the New Zealand government. Only domestic cats may be imported, meaning hybrids (cats crossed with other species) and Bengal cats (fourth generation or earlier) may not be imported.
Microchip Implantation
All cats entering New Zealand must be properly microchipped prior to arrival, and the chip must be scanned for all vet visits and blood sampling necessary for pre-export testing. If your cat already has a microchip, confirm that it meets the proper standards.
Rabies Vaccination
Before bringing cats into New Zealand, pet owners must ensure proper rabies vaccination and antibody levels. That begins with an inactivated rabies vaccine, followed by a Rabies Neutralizing Antibody Titer Test . The latter is a blood test that's performed three to four weeks after the rabies vaccine. It must go through an approved lab, and results must be 0.5 IU/ml or above.
180-Day Quarantine
Once the blood is drawn for the Titer Test, the 180-day (approximately six month) quarantine period begins. Up to 170 days of the quarantine may take place in the country of origin, but the final 10 days must occur in New Zealand upon arrival. (If biosecurity issues arise during that 10-day period, the post-entry quarantine may be longer.)
Import Permit
After the Titer Test results are received, you may apply for the required import permit. Your PetRelocation Specialist can help you with this process.
General Vaccinations & Parasite Treatments
Is your cat up to date on other necessary vaccinations? Bringing cats to New Zealand requires treatment for internal and external parasites before travel as well as additional vaccines and tests. Your PetRelocation Specialist will outline these for you in greater detail and provide the necessary timeline.
Pre-Export Examination and Health Certificate
Within five days of travel to New Zealand, cats must be examined by an approved vet to ensure they are free of parasites and infectious diseases.
Additional Resources
Still have questions? Meet a few cats who have traveled to New Zealand and find out how PetRelocation can help you arrange your cat’s move.