Bringing a cat to Israel when making Aliyah requires careful planning to comply with Israel’s strict pet import regulations. This guide covers every detail to ensure a smooth journey for both you and your feline companion.
1. Eligibility: Can Your Cat Enter Israel?
Before making travel arrangements, check that your cat meets Israel’s pet import requirements:
Age requirement: Your cat must be at least four months old at the time of travel. Pet limit: You can bring up to two pets per person without special permission. More than two pets require an import permit from the Israeli Ministry of Agriculture. Banned breeds: There are no specific breed restrictions for cats, but some exotic species (e.g., servals, hybrids) may require additional permits.2. Microchip and Vaccination Requirements
Microchip Requirement
All imported cats must be microchipped before receiving their rabies vaccination.
Must be ISO 11784/11785-compliant Must be implanted before the rabies vaccination Must be readable by standard scanners upon arrival in Israel
Tip: Have your vet scan the microchip before departure to ensure it works. Rabies Vaccination
Your cat must be vaccinated against rabies before entering Israel.
The vaccine must be administered at least 30 days before travel. The vaccination must be no older than 1 year at the time of travel. If your cat was microchipped after the rabies vaccine, it must be revaccinated. Rabies Antibody Titer Test (If Required)
If you are traveling from a high-risk country (e.g., India, Turkey), your cat will need a rabies antibody test before entry.
The test must be performed at least 30 days after the rabies vaccine. The test must be done at an approved lab and show 0.5 IU/ml or higher. The test results must be at least three months old before entry.
Note: If traveling from the USA, UK, Canada, or the EU, the titer test is not required.3. Veterinary Health Certificate
A veterinary health certificate is required to confirm that your cat is healthy.
What’s Needed on the Certificate?
Issued within 10 days before travel. Signed and stamped by a licensed veterinarian. Approved by the government veterinary authority (e.g., USDA for the U.S., DEFRA for the UK). Confirms:
Microchip details
Rabies vaccination details
Cat is free from contagious diseases
Cat is fit for travel
Tip: Some airlines require an additional airline-specific health certificate, so check before flying.4. Import Permit (If Needed)
If you are bringing more than two pets, you must apply for a pet import permit from the Israeli Ministry of Agriculture.
Where to Apply?Visit Israel’s Ministry of Agriculture website for updated regulations and application forms.
Tip: Permit applications take several weeks, so apply early.5. Airline Policies for Flying with a Cat
Different airlines have different rules. El Al, Israel’s national airline, has strict pet travel guidelines.
El Al In-Cabin Pet Travel Rules
If your cat qualifies for in-cabin travel, it must meet these requirements:
Total weight limit (cat + carrier): 9kg (19.8 lbs) maximum Carrier size:
40 cm (length) × 40 cm (width) × 21 cm (height)
Must fit under the seat
Carrier type:
Must be soft-sided, well-ventilated, escape-proof
Must have leak-proof bottom
The pet must remain in the carrier for the entire flight.
Additional fee applies—contact El Al for pricing.
Tip: Book early, as El Al only allows a limited number of pets in the cabin per flight. El Al Cargo Travel Rules (If Over 9kg)
If your cat and carrier exceed 9kg, it must travel in the cargo hold.
Carrier must meet IATA (International Air Transport Association) standards, which means:
Hard-sided with secure locking mechanisms
Ventilation on at least three sides
Leak-proof bottom with absorbent material
Cargo hold is temperature-controlled and pressurized.
Tip: Attach contact details and "Live Animal" stickers to the carrier.6. Arrival in Israel: What to Expect at Ben Gurion Airport
Once you land in Israel, your cat will go through customs and veterinary inspection.
Customs Declaration: Declare your pet upon arrival. Veterinary Inspection:
Officials scan the microchip to confirm it matches the paperwork.
They verify the health certificate and rabies vaccination records.
Quarantine (if required):
If paperwork is correct, no quarantine is required.
If there’s a problem, your cat may be held for further inspection.
Tip: To avoid delays, bring printed copies of all documents.7. Settling Your Cat in Israel
Helping Your Cat Adjust
Cats may take time to settle into their new home.
Bring familiar bedding, toys, and food for comfort. Stick to a feeding schedule to maintain routine. Cat-proof your home, especially balconies and open windows. Where to Buy Cat Supplies in Israel?
Pet food brands: Imported brands (Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet) are available. Local pet stores: Israel has chain stores like Pet Buy and Zoog. Veterinary clinics: Offer pet food, supplies, and medical care.8. Registering Your Cat in Israel
Once settled, consider:
Registering with a local vet for check-ups and vaccinations. Getting pet insurance (optional but useful). Learning municipal pet laws—some cities require pet registration.Final Thoughts
Bringing your cat on Aliyah requires meticulous planning, but with the right preparation, your furry friend will settle into Israel with ease. By following all regulations, securing the proper carrier, and choosing the right airline, you’ll ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Need Help With Aliyah?
Easy Aliyah provides expert guidance on all aspects of moving to Israel, including pet importation. Contact us today to make your Aliyah seamless for you and your cat!
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