Published on September 3, 2025
Last updated:
Meet Momo
Momo is a domestic shorthair who relocated this summer from South Africa to Japan using WorldCare Pet’s door-to-door pet relocation services. We coordinated her documentation, flights, and arrival so her pet parents could focus on the rest of their move.
Quick Answer: Can I move my cat to Japan?
Yes, with the right prep. You’ll typically need an ISO-compliant microchip, rabies vaccinations, a rabies antibody (FAVN) test after vaccination, required paperwork/notifications, and to meet any waiting-period and health check rules. A pet‑experienced airline and proper crate training reduce stress for your cat.
Pro tip: Start early. Paperwork, vaccines, testing, and waiting periods can take weeks to months. Planning ahead keeps your timeline on track and avoids unexpected quarantine.
Preparing Momo for Her International Move
We organized every step to keep Momo’s journey smooth and safe:
- Microchip: ISO-compliant, 15-digit microchip (scanned before vaccines/tests).
- Rabies vaccinations: Administered per entry rules; records kept.
- Rabies antibody (FAVN) test: Drawn after vaccination; official lab result retained.
- Waiting period & quarantine: Timeline met to avoid quarantine on arrival in Japan.
- Pre‑travel health exam: Vet confirmation of fitness to fly and no signs of disease (including rabies).
- Parasite prevention: Internal and external treatments in the required windows.
- Flight planning: Two pet‑friendly flights on Lufthansa, whose staff are trained in live‑animal handling.
Choosing the Right Pet Relocation Company
If you’re comparing providers, look for transparent timelines, airline expertise, and country‑specific compliance.
What WorldCare Pet handles:
- Door‑to‑door logistics from your old home to your new home
- Airline and routing selection with pet‑experienced carriers
- Import & export paperwork coordination
- Arrival support in Japan (inspection, customs, and handoff)
Arrival in Japan
Momo completed her two‑leg journey and arrived safely. Our team coordinated with airline staff during transit and on arrival so her handoff in Japan was smooth and timely.
Tips for Cat Parents Moving to Japan
- Start early: Build your plan backward from your move date to accommodate vaccines, FAVN testing, and any waiting period.
- Crate train: Introduce the travel kennel early; make it a positive, calm space.
- Ask questions: A good relocation partner explains each step and sets expectations.
- Double‑check rules: Regulations can change—verify details with official authorities and your pet relocation counselor.
What Cat Parents Say About WorldCare Pet
“Moving to another country with my family has to be the most stressful event of my life and the paperwork involved for the pets was overwhelming but I felt so comfortable in leaving everything with the kind, competent staff. When I was getting more and more nervous Marisa called me to calm me down and walk through everything with so much patience and gentleness. I feel so lucky to have found this company and so happy our cats were so well looked after along the journey.” – E.C., USA to Switzerland
“This was our second time we used Worldcare, and it was even better then the first! Our cats were initially relocated in 2022 to the UK and were relocated back to the US this time around. Reilly was spectacular, prompt, and answered any questions we had. We were even given a WhatsApp group where they sent pictures and gave us status updates. Relocation is expensive, but don’t go anywhere else with your furbabies. We knew from start to finish we were in the right hands!” – T.S., UK to USA
“Thanks a lot for helping with the relocation of Merlin & Eve, it was a really stressful time for me and my family, but all went well and now we are together in Vienna.” – O.A., Mexico to Austria
FAQ on Cat Transport
How long does international cat relocation take?
Timelines vary by vaccines, the rabies antibody (FAVN) test, any waiting period, and flight availability. Many pet parents begin planning 2–4+ months ahead.
Can my cat fly in the cabin to Japan?
Cabin eligibility depends on the airline, aircraft, route, and your cat’s size and carrier. Your pet relocation counselor can confirm options and book accordingly.
Do I need a health certificate for Japan?
Most moves require a pre‑travel health exam and specific forms. Your vet and counselor ensure documents match entry rules.
Which airlines are best for cats?
Choose carriers with live‑animal training and reliable pet policies. We often work with pet‑friendly airlines and pick routes with the best timing.
Ready to Move Your Cat Abroad?
Whether you’re relocating to Japan, New Zealand, South Africa, or anywhere in between, our trained pet relocation counselors can guide you.
▸Download: ABCs of Pet Travel (PDF)
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Valerie Neyra is the Marketing Coordinator at WorldCare Pet and a proud cat mom to Lucky. She is dedicated to creating resources that simplify domestic & international pet transport. Valerie understands how important pets are to our lives and works to help pet parents feel supported and confident every step of the way during their global moves.