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Taking a Cat to New Zealand from the UK: Pet Travel Guide

Cats travelling from the UK to New Zealand must comply with strict Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) import requirements, including ISO microchipping, rabies vaccination, Rabies Neutralising Antibody Titre (RNATT) blood testing, import permit approval, and an official Export Health Certificate issued by a UK Official Veterinarian. Careful timing and documentation are essential to meet MPI standards and avoid delays at quarantine on arrival.Requirements

Step-by-Step Guide: Importing Your Cat from the UK to New Zealand

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Check your cat is eligible

Before starting, your cat must:

  • Be at least 9 months old at travel

  • Have lived in the UK for the previous 6 months

  • Meet breed requirements (hybrid cats are not eligible).

  • Be covered by an owner declaration

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Microchip, Rabies & RNATT

Your cat must:

  • Have an ISO-compatible microchip

  • Receive a valid rabies vaccination

  • Pass an RNATT (rabies blood test) with a result of ≥0.5 IU/ml

  • Maintain continuous rabies cover until travel.

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Book quarantine

Before applying for your permit:

  • Reserve a place at an approved 10-day quarantine facility

  • Ensure your cat's routine vaccinations are up to date.

  • Obtain written booking confirmation

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Apply for your import permit

We'll prepare your Official Veterinary Declaration while you submit your New Zealand import permit application.


Allow around 30 working days for approval.

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Request your export health certificate

Once your permit is approved:

  • Nominate us as your Official Veterinarian.

  • Request EHC 2593 from DEFRA.

  • We'll complete the certificate for export.

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Pre-export treatments

Within the month before travel your cat must receive:

  • Two internal parasite treatments

  • Two flea and tick treatments

  • A final parasite-free examination

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Final health check

Shortly before departure we'll:

  • Perform the final examination

  • Verify the microchip

  • Complete Part A of the Export Health Certificate

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Arrival in New Zealand

After completing quarantine:

  • Allow your cat time to settle

  • Visit a local vet if needed

  • Complete any local registration requirements

Need help with your pet's travel?
Get in touch with our team for professional advice and guidance.
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Prefer to understand every step in detail first? Explore our full step-by-step guide for a more in-depth breakdown of the requirements?
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