Dog & Cat Air Travel Rules | Flying With Pets From Paris Airports

General Regulations you plan to travel with your pet by air from or to France, you must comply with both European Union animal trans- port regulations and the specific policies of each airline. These rules ensure the safety and well-being of your pet during the journey.Pets allowed on most French and European airlines include dogs and cats. Other animals (birds, rabbits, etc.) may be accepted under cargo conditions onlyAugust 14, 2025 by Ana Kovalsky

Identification and Microchip

For travel within the EU / EEA:A European Pet Passport is required, issued by an authorized veterinarian.The passport must include the pet’s identification details, owner information, and vaccination records. For travel from outside the EU:A veterinary health certificate following EU format is mandatory.A rabies antibody titration test (blood test) may be required, performed in an approved laboratory at least 30 days after vaccination and 3 months before entry into the EU.

Vaccinations & Health Conditions

Rabies vaccination is compulsory and must be up-to-date.Your pet must be at least 15 weeks old to travel internationally.Some destinations require parasite treatments (worms, ticks, fleas) before entry or return.A certificate of good health issued by a vet within 5–10 days before departure may be required by certain airlines or destinations.

Airline Transportation Rules

Each airline applies its own pet policy, but most follow these common guidelines. In the Cabin Allowed for small cats and dogs (usually up to 8 kg, including carrier).The carrier must be leak-proof, ventilated, soft-sided, and fit under the seat.Typical dimensions: 46 × 28 × 24 cm (may vary slightly).Only one pet per passenger is generally allowed.The pet must remain inside the carrier throughout the flight. In the Hold (Checked Cargo) For pets over 8 kg and up to around 75 kg (including crate).A rigid crate must comply with IATA standards:Hard plastic or fiberglass shell.Secure locking mechanism.Ventilation openings on at least three sides (four for snub-nosed breeds).The pet must be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.Label the crate with your pet’s name and contact details. As Cargo (Air Freight) For very large animals or when airlines cannot accommodate pets in the passenger aircraft hold.Requires booking through a specialized pet transport service Restricted and Prohibited Breeds Under French law, certain dog breeds are classified as dangerous and are subject to strict restrictions. Category 1 (Banned for air transport and import):Dogs resembling Pitbulls, Mastiffs, and Tosas without pedigree recognition. Category 2 (Restricted):Recognized American Staffordshire Terriers, Rottweilers, and Tosas with pedigrees.May be accepted only under specific conditions and with full documentation.Brachycephalic (Snub-Nosed) BreedsBreeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs, Shih Tzus, and Persian cats often cannot travel in the cargo hold due to respiratory risks. Some airlines only allow them in the cabin or refuse transport entirely during warm seasons. Required Travel Documents Checklist Before flying, make sure you have: European Pet Passport or Veterinary Health Certificate, Rabies vaccination proof (minimum 21 days old), Microchip certificate, Certificate of good health (if required), Import/export permit for certain destinations, Airline confirmation for pet reservation (usually 48 h in advance), IATA-approved travel crate matching airline specifications.

General Regulations you plan to travel with your pet by air from or to France, you must comply with both European Union animal transport regulations and the spe- cific policies of each airline. These rules ensure the safety and well-being of your pet during the journey.Pets allowed on most French and European airlines include dogs and cats. Other animals (birds, rabbits, etc.) may be accepted under cargo conditions onlyAugust 14, 2025 by Ana Kovalsky

Identification and Microchip

Vaccinations & Health

Conditions

Rabies vaccination is compulsory and must be up-to- date.Your pet must be at least 15 weeks old to travel internationally.Some destinations require parasite treatments (worms, ticks, fleas) before entry or return.A certificate of good health issued by a vet within 5–10 days before departure may be required by certain airlines or destinations.