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Bringing a cat from the UK to Spain: rules 2026

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Spain is the top destination for UK expats — and bringing a cat there post-Brexit is still straightforward. The UK remains EU-listed, so no rabies titer test is required.

From the origin country. From the UK: no titer test. The UK is on the EU's list of approved countries (Annex II), so a rabies titer test is not required. You need an ISO microchip, a valid rabies vaccination (21-day wait), and an EU Animal Health Certificate issued by a UK Official Veterinarian (valid 10 days to entry). A Great Britain Pet Health Certificate works for most EU ports.

Destination requirements

  1. ISO microchip — before the rabies vaccination.
  2. Rabies vaccination — ≥12 weeks; wait ≥21 days.
  3. Titer test — only from an “unlisted” country (≥30 days after vaccination, ≥90 days before travel, ≥0.5 IU/ml). Not needed from the EU / listed countries.
  4. Certificate — non-EU: EU Animal Health Certificate (10 days, authority-endorsed; USDA APHIS from the USA). EU / return: EU pet passport.
  5. Tapeworm treatment — not required.
  6. Breeds — no import ban. Spain regulates “potentially dangerous dogs” (PPP) via a licence (RD 287/2002): Pit Bull, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire, Rottweiler, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Tosa Inu, Akita Inu and crosses — municipal licence, insurance, muzzle and a lead under 2 m. (Reform under Ley 7/2023 — verify current municipal requirements.)
  7. Quarantine — none if met; under 15 weeks not admitted; enter via an authorised point (PEV) with a declaration.

EU 2026: new Regulation (EU) 2026/131 applies from 22 Apr 2026; old-format Animal Health Certificates are valid only if issued before 1 Oct 2026.

Official sources

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FAQ

Do I need a titer test for my cat from the UK to Spain?

No. The UK is EU-listed, so cats only need a microchip, rabies vaccination, and an EU Animal Health Certificate from a UK Official Veterinarian.

Can cats travel in-cabin from the UK to Spain?

Yes, many airlines allow small cats in-cabin on short-haul routes — check your carrier's specific rules on weight and carrier size.

Is there quarantine for cats in Spain from the UK?

No quarantine with correct documentation.

Related

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We provide information only and do not offer relocation services. Rules change — always confirm with the official source above.

Updated 2026-06-20