Pets

Cats

Importing pet cats into Australia involves several important aspects. Some are listed below, but honestly the best advice is to go with a very solid vet that knows the drill. We used Bryanston Vet in Johannesburg, and they took care of everything for us, including finding mistakes that other vets had made (very important when dealing with Australia, who are fanatical about ensuring no weird bugs enter the country). You’ll also need a pet shipping company.

Note that we needed to use Onderstepoort for the testing, even though there are equivalent testing facilities in e.g. Germany. No, Oz wanted us to use Onderstepoort. That meant delays, and not long after we got through there was a holdup when they froze all testing for a period. Speak to your expert travel vet about navigating that stuff.

Biosecurity Requirements

Australia has strict biosecurity laws to protect its unique environment and wildlife. Your cat must meet all the biosecurity requirements set by the Australian Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment.

Rabies Vaccination and Testing

Australia is rabies-free. Your cat must be vaccinated against rabies and undergo a Rabies Neutralising Antibody Titre Test (RNATT).

Approved Countries

Cats can only be imported directly from approved countries. If your cat is from a non-approved country, it must spend at least 6 months in an approved country before entering Australia.

Microchipping

Your cat must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15 digit pet microchip.

Other Vaccinations

Cats must be vaccinated against feline enteritis (panleukopenia), rhinotracheitis, and calicivirus.

External and Internal Parasite Treatments

Your cat must be treated against internal and external parasites before arrival.

Veterinary Certificates

Obtain the necessary veterinary health certificates as per Australian requirements.

Quarantine

Cats must undergo a mandatory 10-day quarantine upon arrival in Australia.

Import Permit

Apply for and obtain an import permit from the Australian Government.

Booking Quarantine Space

Arrange for quarantine space in an Australian quarantine facility.

Travel Arrangements

Make travel arrangements with an approved animal transport company.

Costs

Be aware of the costs involved, including import permits, quarantine fees, veterinary treatments, and transport costs.

Remember, regulations can change, so always check the most current requirements with the Australian Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment.