I am going on vacation to germany and want to bring my cat, what do i need to do.?

Question

I am going to germany for a month and a half on vacation and want to bring my cat. I have the paperwork, I live in the USA. does he need a microchip? what about the rabies shot testing, do i need to have a german laboratory do it prior to his going over there?, since i am from a first world country.?thanks Fay

Answer 1

get it aGerman phrase book

Answer 2

This link should help you:

http://www.germany.info/relaunch/info/mi...

Answer 3

I know you have to have rabies vaccination and a health certificate. Micro chip is something I'm not sure of, I live over here and it's not mandatory that they have one just a good suggestion. Also I think  maybe a pet passport, I know if you travel throughout Europe your pet must have one but I don't know if coming here you do. The good thing is there are no quarentine rules as long as you don't touch down in the UK. Also when we get sent back to the states the health cert. has to be no more then 10 days out, I don't know if it's the same coming over. Rabies is only vaild over here for 1 year, that's usually what's accpeted, make sure aboout that!

Answer 4

You will have to check with the airline for their rules.

You will have to check with the German authorities about importing an animal.  

There will likely be a quarantine time for your cat and this time may make it unfeasible to take your pet with you.

Cats don't like to travel.  It might be best to find a trusted friend to take care of your pet while you are gone.

Answer 5

I know you mean well by wanting to take him, but I really would ask you to consider if there is anyone which you could leave him with back home, or someone to come into your house to feed/spend some time with him

As pointed out, as well as the practicalities, cats are very territorial creatures and develop comfort zones.  He would have to learn a new environment, and just as he was settling down, then back to the old one again

Cats really dislike travelling as a rule, and especially being caged up for a long period of time  Two 15 (approx) hours flights is a lot for a cat to take.  Plus when you get to Germany you have to find a place which is cat friendly.  

Like I said, I'm not trying to lay down the law, but just maybe you would think about what is best for him in the long-run