Can I bring a cat home from Puerto Rico?

Regulations for Importing Pets to Puerto Rico

For dogs and cats traveling to or from Puerto Rico to or from any part of the Continental US, this is not considered an international shipment. Pets will only need regular domestic health certificates as well as proof of current vaccinations (if any).

Can I bring a cat back from Puerto Rico?

Because Puerto Rico is a Commonwealth of the United States, animal travel from Puerto Rico to the continental U.S. is considered State to State travel. All that is needed is a travel certificate and flight costs in order to take your new pet home.

Can I bring a cat back to the US?

As a general rule, there are no restrictions on bringing domestic cats into the United States. A general certificate of health is not required by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Can I just bring a cat home?

When you first take them home, you'll need to help them gently settle into their new life. A change of environment is often stressful for a cat and it can take a few weeks for them (and you) to feel relaxed. The first few hours after welcoming your cat home can affect how they'll adapt to their new life.

Can you bring cats to Puerto Rico?

Dogs and cats do not need a PRDA import permit for interstate movement. All dogs and cats entering Puerto Rico shall be accompanied by an official interstate health certificate, stating that the animal did not originate from an area quarantined for rabies.

Welcome a CAT to Your HOME 🐱 🏠 How long does it take to adapt?

What can you not bring back from Puerto Rico?

USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) prohibits or restricts the entry of many agricultural products from Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands into the U.S. mainland, including most fresh fruits and vegetables, certain types of plants and flowers, and certain pork and pork products.

Why are there so many stray cats in Puerto Rico?

Cats were brought to San Juan, Puerto Rico, by the early Spanish settlers, in order to control the rat population in the city. Not all cats that roam the streets of San Juan are ferals.

Do I need a carrier to bring a cat home?

Carrier or Crate

The first thing you need is a cat carrier or crate; you will need this to take your new friend home in. It should be safe and sturdy with plenty of ventilation and easy access for you to get your kitty in and out.

Where should a cat sleep on first night?

This means that the best place for a kitten to sleep is a secure spot, sheltered from draughts and warm enough is the best set up. It is a good idea to have the kitten close to you for the first few nights. Find a cosy place next to your bed and you can even choose a spot up off the floor if possible.

Can my cat stay home alone for a week?

However, cats should not be left alone unattended for more than one day. While each cat's individual needs vary, it's important to not leave them alone for prolonged periods of time to minimize risk of separation anxiety, medical issues, and frantic attempts to escape or avoid abandonment.

How much does it cost to fly a cat to USA?

Example Estimate: The cost of flying your cat as manifest cargo will depend greatly on the destination. The cost of flying one small cat domestically as manifest cargo will likely range between $275 to $300. However, the further the destination, the more the rate will increase.

Can I bring a cat on a plane?

Most airlines will allow you to take a cat or small dog in the cabin for an additional fee. But you must call the airline well in advance; there are limits to the number of animals allowed in the cabin. If you are transporting your dog, make sure they meet the size requirements.

Do cats need a passport to travel?

You probably have a plan for your own passport, but your animal companion needs one too. All pets traveling to and from the United States need a passport. Keep in mind, a “pet passport” in the U.S. refers to the extra documents you need to travel to other countries with your pet.

Why are there so many stray cats and dogs in Puerto Rico?

Puerto Rico's stray dog crisis is a result of many years of infrequent spaying/neutering, which leads to unwanted litters of puppies and a never-ending cycle of reproduction.

Can I bring a stray dog home from Puerto Rico?

Regulations for Importing Pets to Puerto Rico

For dogs and cats traveling to or from Puerto Rico to or from any part of the Continental US, this is not considered an international shipment. Pets will only need regular domestic health certificates as well as proof of current vaccinations (if any).

Can I bring my pet back to USA?

NO: Dog is not allowed to enter the United States. If you attempt to import your dog into the United States, the dog will be denied entry and returned to the country of departure at your expense.

Do cats like to be held when sleeping?

Young kittens all sleep together in a bundle to keep warm and safe. And adult cats continue to crave this later in life too. Thus, your kitty instinctively looks for warmth, protection and security when it comes to nap in your lap.

Should you leave a new cat alone?

(Kittens younger than four months should not be left alone for more than four hours. Older than that, they can handle another hour or so. When they reach six months, they can tolerate an eight-hour day without company.)

What is the first thing to do when you bring a cat home?

Initially, confine your new cat to one room. Your bedroom or the living room often works well for this. Make sure that you provide your new cat with food, water and a litter box (see below), and that you regularly spend time in this room with her, so that she is not alone.

Do cats prefer hard or soft carriers?

Soft-sided carriers are more comfortable for your cat.

They are designed with plenty of padding, which allows your kitty to have a nice space to lay down, nap, and feel at ease.

Can I use a cat backpack instead of a carrier?

Yes. Cat backpacks are a safe and reliable way to transport your cat. Whether you are going to the vet or enjoying recreational walks and hikes, cat backpacks are good options for both you and your pet. Backpacks keep your cat secure, while also letting them take in the scenery around them.

What do I need to do before I bring my cat home?

Be prepared so your new cat can start feeling at home right away. Your cat will need a litter box, cat litter, food and water bowls, food, scratching posts, safe and stimulating toys, a cushy bed, a brush for grooming, a toothbrush and nail clippers. Cat-proof your home.

What pets are illegal in Puerto Rico?

Per the USDA website: All breeds of Staffordshire bull terrier, American Staffordshire terrier, American Pit Bull terrier, and hybrids produced by crossbreeding with dogs of other breeds are prohibited to be introduced or imported to Puerto Rico.

Are there wild big cats in Puerto Rico?

The island has no large native mammals, and its small mammals include bats and shrews. Although they are not native, mongooses also live in Puerto Rico. The island has a high number of amphibians and reptiles, including nonpoisonous snakes, lizards, frogs and iguanas.

What is the most special animal in Puerto Rico?

The most recognizable and famous animal of Puerto Rico is probably the common coquí, a small endemic frog, and one of the 86 species that constitute Puerto Rico's herpetofauna.