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Moving Cats to France: Your Stress-Free Guide
Moving to France with cats requires careful planning. From EU regulations to settling into the new home, there are several things to consider. We help you make the process stress-free. Need help planning your move? Contact us for personal advice.
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Moving to France with cats requires careful planning. From EU regulations to settling into the new home, there are several things to consider. We help you make the process stress-free. Need help planning your move? Contact us for personal advice.
Moving to France with cats requires careful planning. From EU regulations to settling into the new home, there are several things to consider. We help you make the process stress-free. Need help planning your move? Contact us for personal advice.
Moving to France with cats requires careful planning. From EU regulations to settling into the new home, there are several things to consider. We help you make the process stress-free. Need help planning your move? Contact us for personal advice.
Planning a move to France with your cats? Learn all about the necessary documents, vaccinations, and how to make the relocation as comfortable as possible for your furry friends. Find out now!
Moving to France with cats requires careful planning to keep the stress for your furry friends as low as possible. At GoMovin, we understand that international relocation is a challenge not just for you, but also for your pets. Therefore, we offer a comprehensive checklist and valuable tips to ensure the move goes smoothly. Good preparation is essential to make the transition to the new home as pleasant as possible. Use our expertise to keep track of all the necessary steps and to provide your cats with a stress-free start in France. We are happy to support you in optimally shaping this important phase of life.
Checklist for the Move: What You Need to Consider
A detailed checklist helps you stay organized and not forget anything. Here are the most important points to keep in mind when preparing:
Documents and Papers
Make sure you obtain all the required documents in time. These include:
EU Pet Passport: This passport is mandatory and records all the important information about your cat.
Microchip or Tattoo Proof: The identification must be clear. Tattoos are only recognised if done before 3rd July 2011.
Rabies Vaccination Certificate: The vaccination must have been given at least 21 days before entry.
Health Certificate: While not always mandatory, a current health certificate is recommended.
Transport Preparations
The transport must be well planned to minimise stress for your cat:
Suitable Transport Boxes: The boxes must be secure and comfortable.
Plan Air or Car Transport: Choose the appropriate transport method and get informed about the respective regulations.
Find Pet-Friendly Accommodation: Ensure your accommodation in France is pet-friendly.
Health Aspects Before the Move
Your cat's health should be the highest priority. Therefore, plan the following steps:
Veterinary Examination
A visit to the vet is essential to ensure your cat is fit to travel:
General Health Check: Have your cat thoroughly examined.
Check and Update Vaccinations: Make sure all vaccinations are up to date.
Parasite Treatment: A treatment against parasites such as Echinococcus may be required, especially if entering from certain regions.
Cat's Fitness for Travel
Prepare your cat optimally for the journey:
Stress Minimisation through Familiarisation with the Transport Box: Start getting your cat used to the box early.
Use Sedatives Only After Consultation with the Vet: Use sedatives only if absolutely necessary and after consulting your vet.
EU regulations: How to successfully bring your cat into France
The entry requirements for pets in France are regulated by EU regulations. It's important to know and follow these carefully to avoid problems upon entry. At GoMovin, we assist you in navigating the maze of regulations and ensuring all necessary steps are correctly executed. Proper preparation ensures that your cat can enter France smoothly and you avoid unnecessary stress. Get full information and make use of our support to meet all requirements. Adhering to EU regulations is crucial for a successful start in France.
Basic EU Regulations for Pets
The EU regulations form the basis for entry with pets into France. Here are the key points:
Microchip Requirement
Marking your cat is essential:
Microchip identification: Since 3 July 2011, a microchip is mandatory. Older tattoos are only recognised if they are clearly legible and were done before this date.
Ensure readability of identification: Check that the microchip is functional and the tattoo is clearly legible.
Rabies Vaccination
The rabies vaccination is one of the most important prerequisites for entry:
Valid rabies vaccination is compulsory: The vaccination must be performed by an authorised veterinarian.
Initial vaccination at least 21 days before entry: After the initial vaccination, you must wait at least 21 days before you can enter.
Booster vaccinations within the validity period: Ensure that the vaccination is boosted regularly. The validity period of the vaccination is noted in the EU pet passport.
EU Pet Passport
The EU pet passport is your most important document:
To be completed and verified by a veterinarian: The passport must be issued and fully completed by a veterinarian.
Proof of identification and vaccinations: The passport serves as proof that your cat is microchipped and vaccinated.
Specific Requirements for France
In addition to EU-wide regulations, there are also specific requirements for France:
Registration with I-CAD
For longer stays, registration is required:
Mandatory for stays over three months: If you stay in France for more than three months, you must register your cat with I-CAD.
Registration by a French veterinarian: The registration must be carried out by a French veterinarian.
Number of Animals
Pay attention to the limitations on the number of animals:
Limit of up to three dogs or cats without prior permission: If you wish to bring more than three pets, you require special permission.
Special rules for puppies/kittens: Special regulations apply for puppies and kittens aged 3-6 months. A maximum of one animal of this age may be brought in, as described here.
Safe Transport: How to Comfortably Take Your Cat to France
The transport of your cat to France is a crucial factor for a successful move. We at GoMovin understand that choosing the right mode of transport and preparing for the journey are key to minimising stress for your pet. Whether travelling by car or by plane, we provide invaluable tips on how to make the transport as pleasant and safe as possible. Good planning and taking into account your cat's needs are the keys to a relaxed journey. Rely on our experience to find the best solution for your individual case and to ensure your pet has a pleasant start in France.
Transport by Car
Car transport offers flexibility but also requires careful preparation:
Safety in the Vehicle
The safety of your cat is a top priority:
Use suitable transport carriers: The carriers must be stable and secure.
Securing the carriers in the car: Make sure the carriers are secured to prevent them from sliding during the journey.
Regular breaks for the cat: Plan regular breaks so your cat can relax.
First Aid Kit for Cats
A first aid kit can be helpful in emergencies:
Medication for travel sickness: Consult your vet about suitable medications.
Sedatives: Use sedatives only under veterinary guidance.
Bandages and disinfectants: You should have bandages and disinfectants for minor injuries.
Air Transport
Air transport requires special preparations:
Preparing the Cat for the Flight
Gradually acclimatise your cat to the carrier:
Familiarisation with the carrier: Start early to get your cat used to the carrier.
Information on airline regulations: Thoroughly acquaint yourself with the airline's regulations.
Transport in Cargo Hold vs. Cabin
The choice of transport location depends on various factors:
Consider the size and weight of the carrier: The size and weight of the carrier are crucial for choosing the transport location. For instance, note Lufthansa's requirements, which stipulate a maximum size of 55 x 40 x 23 cm and a weight of 8 kg, as described here.
Observe airline-specific regulations: Each airline has its own regulations for transporting animals.
Easing acclimatization: How your cat can quickly feel at home in France
The Arrival and Settling in France are crucial for your cat to quickly feel at ease. At GoMovin, we understand that a new environment can cause stress. Therefore, it is important to be particularly mindful during the first days and weeks. Create a safe and familiar environment to help your cat transition smoothly. With patience and the right measures, you can ensure that your cat adapts quickly to her new home and feels comfortable in France. Use our tips to make the settling-in period as pleasant as possible and give your cat a good start.
First Steps after Arrival
There are some important things to consider after arrival:
Creating a Safe Environment
Create a safe space where your cat can relax:
Keep windows and doors closed: Prevent your cat from escaping before she has adjusted to the new home.
Provide familiar items: Make familiar items like a scratching post and food bowl available.
Settling-In Period
Give your cat time to get used to the new surroundings:
Do not force your cat: Let your cat choose when to explore.
Allow for a retreat: Provide a safe retreat for your cat.
Be patient: Adjusting can take several weeks.
Veterinary Care in France
Veterinary care is an important aspect:
International Health Certificate
Obtain an International Health Certificate:
Acquisition from a French vet: A French vet can issue you an International Health Certificate.
Required vaccinations according to French regulations: Find out about the vaccinations required in France.
Finding a Local Vet
Find a local vet:
For emergencies and regular check-ups: A local vet is important for emergencies and regular check-ups.
Legal Framework: What You Need to Consider in France
The legal aspects and peculiarities in France are important to know in order to avoid problems. Here at GoMovin, we inform you about the key laws and regulations you need to be aware of as a pet owner in France. These include regulations regarding beach access and potential breed restrictions. A good understanding of local customs and laws will help you integrate quickly and ensure harmonious living with your cat in France. Rely on our expertise to meet all legal requirements and enjoy your stay in France with ease.
French Laws and Regulations
There are some specific laws and regulations you should be aware of:
Beach Access
The rules for beach access can vary:
Rules vary depending on the beach: Check with the beach patrol for the current rules.
Breed Restrictions
Unlike dogs, there are no specific breed restrictions for cats:
No specific breed restrictions for cats: However, this does not apply to dogs, where certain breeds are subject to restrictions.
Challenges and Solutions
Various challenges may arise when relocating:
Language Barrier
The language barrier can be a challenge:
Use of translators or interpreters: Use translators or interpreters to avoid misunderstandings.
Online resources for pet owners: There are numerous online resources that can help you with communication.
Cultural Differences
Cultural differences can also play a role:
Adapting to French customs: Inform yourself about French customs when dealing with animals.
Minimize Stress: How to Make Moving Easier for Your Cat
Minimising Stress for Cats During a Move is a key concern to ensure your pets' well-being. At GoMovin, we provide valuable tips on how to reduce stress before, during, and after the move. A familiar environment, positive associations with the carrier, and calming measures can help make the move as pleasant as possible for your cat. With the right preparation and suitable strategies, you can ensure your cat handles the move well and quickly settles into their new home. Trust our experience to make the move stress-free for your cat.
Before the Move
Prepare your cat for the move in good time:
Maintain Familiar Surroundings
Preserve the familiar environment as much as possible:
Keep routines: Stick to daily routines as much as you can.
Minimise packing stress: Pack calmly and avoid hustle and bustle.
Make the Carrier Inviting
Make the carrier inviting:
Place food and toys in the carrier: Place food and toys in the carrier to make it more attractive.
Offer the carrier as a sleeping place: Offer the carrier as a sleeping place so your cat gets used to it.
During the Move
Ensure safe accommodation during the move:
Secure Accommodation
Ensure secure accommodation during the move:
Temporary lodging during the move: Put your cat in secure lodging during the move.
Ensure calm and safety: Make sure your cat has calm and safety.
Calming Measures
Calming measures can help reduce stress:
Pheromone sprays or diffusers: Use pheromone sprays or diffusers to create a calming effect.
Gentle music or sounds: Play gentle music or sounds to calm your cat.
Plan your return trip: How to safely return with your cat
Returning to the country of origin (e.g. UK) requires careful planning to ensure your cat can travel back without issues. At GoMovin, we inform you about the Pets Travel Scheme (PETS) and the specific requirements for the return trip, such as rabies vaccination, blood tests, and treatments against ticks and tapeworms. Timely information and preparation are crucial to meet all necessary steps and make the return journey as stress-free as possible for your cat. Rely on our expertise to meet all the requirements and ensure a smooth return.
Pets Travel Scheme (PETS)
The Pets Travel Scheme (PETS) facilitates travel back to certain countries:
Return Trip Requirements
Certain requirements must be met for the return trip:
Rabies vaccination: The rabies vaccination must be valid.
Blood test six months later: A blood test must be conducted six months after the vaccination.
Treatment against ticks and tapeworms: Treatment against ticks and tapeworms must be done 48 hours before departure.
Documentation of all vaccinations and treatments: All vaccinations and treatments must be documented.
Planning the Return Trip
Plan your return trip in good time:
Timely Information
Stay informed about the current regulations in good time:
Check current regulations: Check the current regulations for the return trip.
Consult your vet: Consult your vet to ensure all requirements are fulfilled.
GoMovin: Your partner for a stress-free move with cats
A move to France with cats can be a challenge, but with the right support, it becomes a success. At GoMovin, we are your experienced partner for international relocations, providing you with comprehensive support so you and your cats arrive in France stress-free. From planning and organizing to execution – we take care of all the details and are on hand with advice and assistance. Rely on our expertise and enjoy a smooth move where the well-being of your cats is always the priority. Contact us today to learn more about our tailor-made moving solutions and to optimally prepare your move to France.
We understand that every move is unique and comes with individual needs. That’s why we offer you a personal consultation to take your specific requirements into account and develop a customised solution. Our goal is to make the move as simple and pleasant as possible, allowing you to focus entirely on your new life in France. With GoMovin by your side, your move with cats becomes a positive experience.
Planning a move to France with your cats? We at GoMovin simplify the moving process and make international relocation stress-free, efficient and bespoke. With our all-in-one solution for international relocations, including personal consultation, legal support, real estate service and cultural integration, you are fully equipped. Our comprehensive service, personalisation, global network and transparency are our key differentiators. Contact us today for a non-binding consultation and let us plan your move together. Learn more about our relocation assistance.
Are you ready for your stress-free move to France with your cats? Contact us today for a personal consultation. We look forward to supporting your move and enabling you to enjoy a smooth start in France. Get in touch now!
Further useful links
On the Wikipedia page, you can find information on the subject of animal transport.
The Friedrich Loeffler Institute (FLI) provides information on animal health and diseases.
The German Animal Welfare Federation is committed to animal protection and offers information on various animal welfare topics.
The EU Commission provides information on the regulations for travelling with pets within the EU.
The French Embassy in Germany offers information about France and the relations between Germany and France.
FAQ
What documents do I need for relocating my cat to France?
You will need an EU Pet Passport, proof of microchip identification (or a tattoo if it was done before 3rd July 2011), and a valid rabies vaccination certificate. A current health certificate is recommended.
How long before the move does my cat need to be vaccinated against rabies?
The rabies vaccination must be administered at least 21 days prior to entry into France. Ensure the vaccination is regularly boosted.
Do I need to register my cat in France?
Yes, if you stay in France for more than three months, you must register your cat with I-CAD. The registration must be done by a French veterinarian.
Are there restrictions on the number of cats I can take to France?
A maximum of three dogs or cats can be brought without prior approval. Special regulations apply for puppies and kittens aged 3-6 months: only one animal of this age can be imported.
How can I make the transport of my cat to France as stress-free as possible?
Get your cat accustomed to the carrier early, secure the carrier in the car, and plan regular breaks. If travelling by air, check the airline's regulations thoroughly.
What should I be aware of upon arriving in France?
Keep windows and doors closed to prevent your cat from escaping. Provide familiar items like a scratching post and food bowl, and give your cat time to adjust to the new environment.
What is the Pets Travel Scheme (PETS) and when is it relevant?
The Pets Travel Scheme (PETS) is relevant if you plan to return to the country of origin (e.g., UK) with your cat. It includes requirements such as rabies vaccination, blood tests, and treatments for ticks and tapeworms.
Where can I find a local veterinarian in France?
A local vet is essential for emergencies and regular check-ups. Ask friends, neighbours, or search online for veterinarians in your area.
