Bringing a cat from the UK to Spain: rules 2026
Spain is the top destination for UK expats โ and bringing a cat there post-Brexit is still straightforward. The UK remains EU-listed, so no rabies titer test is required.
Destination requirements
- ISO microchip โ before the rabies vaccination.
- Rabies vaccination โ โฅ12 weeks; wait โฅ21 days.
- Titer test โ only from an โunlistedโ country (โฅ30 days after vaccination, โฅ90 days before travel, โฅ0.5 IU/ml). Not needed from the EU / listed countries.
- Certificate โ non-EU: EU Animal Health Certificate (10 days, authority-endorsed; USDA APHIS from the USA). EU / return: EU pet passport.
- Tapeworm treatment โ not required.
- Breeds โ no import ban. Spain regulates โpotentially dangerous dogsโ (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 โ municipal licence, insurance, muzzle and a lead under 2 m. (Reform under Ley 7/2023 โ verify current municipal requirements.)
- Quarantine โ none if met; under 15 weeks not admitted; enter via an authorised point (PEV) with a declaration.
Official sources
- MAPA โ Viajar con perros, gatos y hurones โ
- European Commission โ Bringing a pet from a non-EU country โ
- BOE โ RD 287/2002 (potentially dangerous dogs) โ
- โ ISO 11784/11785 microchipping before rabies vaccine timeline
- โ Rabies titer blood test (RNATT) & mandatory 90-day waiting period
- โ Airport transit zone regulations, international vet certificates & EU pet passport
โ Your Checklist is Ready!
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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 โ 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.