"2026 Hong Kong Pet Relocation" Cathay Pacific Pet Air Transport Regul

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After discussing IATA pet carrier regulations in the last episode, many friends asked a more in-depth question:

✈️What are Cathay Pacific (CX)'s requirements for pet transport and pet carriers?

Today, we will explain these regulations to help you better understand Cathay Pacific's policies. We have categorized the most frequently asked questions into 6 categories. Due to the extensive content, we have listed the different questions in the table of contents below, allowing you to select the answers you need.

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1. Required Travel Documents

Basically, Cathay Pacific's document requirements align with government regulations. By acting as a checkpoint for both Hong Kong and destination country authorities, as long as you obtain the correct documents and follow the procedures, there should be no major issues or difficulties. Please refer to the document list below for reference.

1.1 List of Pet Health Certificates

• An animal health certificate issued or endorsed by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department of Hong Kong, certifying that the pet is healthy enough to withstand the journey.
• Valid import/export permits and other required supporting documents issued by the relevant authorities of the destination country.
• A valid health certificate (pet passport) signed by a registered veterinarian, stating that the pet is free from rabies or other diseases.
• Valid vaccination records to prove that the pet has received all necessary vaccinations.
• Transit permits or related documents required by the relevant authorities of all transit countries (for layovers).

⚠️Please note: Some countries (e.g., the UK) require pets to be microchipped or undergo quarantine. Please ensure you are fully aware of the specific requirements of your destination country.

1.2 UK Government Document Requirements

This time, let's take the UK as an example. The relevant authorities require pets entering the country to be microchipped for identification. There are two types of microchips, AVID and ISO, but not every UK airport has a chip reader that can read AVID chips, so ISO chips are generally safer. After microchipping, owners must vaccinate their pets against rabies at least 21 days before departure to arrange the necessary exit documents.

Once the pet has been microchipped and vaccinated, to meet the "no quarantine" entry conditions, the owner must take the pet and vaccination records to a Hong Kong veterinary clinic to obtain a pet passport issued by a veterinarian, and then submit it to the UK Animal Quarantine Centre. The passport will clearly state the owner's information, veterinarian's information, animal microchip data, animal appearance description, rabies vaccination records, rabies blood test records, and deworming treatment records.

If the owner chooses to travel to the UK on a different flight than their pet, they must ensure the pet arrives within 5 days before or after the owner's arrival. Pets arriving outside this timeframe will be considered for "commercial purposes" rather than "personal pets," and the required documents and fees will differ. If the owner truly cannot arrive within the specified timeframe, they can authorize another person in writing to take temporary custody of the pet.

When leaving Hong Kong, pets must have a health certificate issued by a veterinarian and the AFCD within 5-10 days, certifying that the pet is healthy enough to withstand the journey. The owner should take the pet for a check-up at a veterinary clinic 5 days before departure, and then submit an application to the AFCD. Additionally, the UK requires pets to enter the country between 24 and 120 hours after deworming, so these two steps must be carefully timed.

Once all entry requirements are met and flights are booked, before arriving in the UK, you must apply for a ToR (Transfer of Residence) from HMRC to prove that the pet is relocating with its owner and not being imported as goods, thus avoiding VAT.

Upon arrival in the UK, pets will be directly sent for customs clearance, where a local veterinarian will check their health status and observe for any adverse reactions. After approximately 6 to 8 hours, the owner can pick up their pet from the animal reception center.

Pet Immigration to the UK Encyclopedia by Amo Invest in 2026.

⚠️Please note: The above requirements may vary across different countries and are subject to change at any time. Please inquire with the specific destination or transit country you wish to visit.

Further Reading

• Cathay Pacific Cargo: Pet Travel Page

2. Pet Carrier Requirements and Regulations

In the previous article, we outlined the International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations (which can be read via the link below), and they are mostly similar to Cathay Pacific's terms. For details, please refer to the terms below:

2.1 Cathay Pacific Pet Carrier Requirements Details

Generally, the carrier must be of appropriate size, well-ventilated, sturdy, secure, and equipped with a leak-proof bottom, and must also meet the following requirements:

• The carrier must be made of materials such as fiberglass, metal, rigid plastic, or welded mesh. Wooden carriers are not accepted.
• Foldable carriers are not accepted as they are not sturdy enough.
• Carriers made entirely of welded mesh or wire mesh are not accepted.
• The carrier must be clean and leak-proof.
• Place absorbent bedding, such as clothes or blankets, on the bottom of the carrier.
• If the carrier has wheels, they must be removed before check-in.
• The carrier must be large enough to allow the pet to stand up naturally, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
• The carrier must have ventilation on three sides, with the main ventilation at the top, and be equipped with a sturdy, breathable metal mesh.
• For dog carriers, the maximum opening size in the welded mesh is 25mm x 25mm (1 inch x 1 inch). For cat carriers, the maximum size is 19mm x 19mm (¾ inch x ¾ inch). All openings in the welded mesh must be small enough to prevent the animal's nose and paws from protruding.
• A water container must be placed inside the carrier, and it must be possible to replenish the drinking water from outside the carrier.
• The top of the water dispenser must be open, allowing the animal unrestricted access to water, and it must be securely fastened inside the carrier.
• Water bottles or similar dispensers attached to the inside or outside of the carrier are not considered open water containers.
• Separate food and water containers should be provided to facilitate easy replenishment of food and water in case of flight delays.
• If the total travel time exceeds 12 hours, you must provide water for your pet and ensure the water container is not overfilled.
• Instructions for feeding and watering must be written and attached to the outside of the carrier.
• The container must be easy for staff to handle and provide protection to handlers from being harmed by the animal.

If a service animal (such as a guide dog) is accompanying you, Cathay Pacific will allow you to bring the dog into the passenger cabin. Otherwise, your pet will need to be transported as checked baggage or cargo.

Pet Carrier Size Calculator

Now, simply enter "A" and "B" to get a recommended pet carrier size.

Nose to base of tail (A) Elbow to ground (B) Recommended internal length of pet carrier (A + ½ B):

Recommended Pet Carrier:

Paw Things Pet Carrier Internal Dimensions Chart

There are pet carriers of different sizes to accommodate various pet sizes, but not all airlines accept large pet carriers, and some airlines may charge extra based on the size of the pet carrier. This must be confirmed with the airline before purchasing a pet carrier. Here, we will list the internal dimensions of various pet carriers.

Please refer to the internal dimensions of the following pet carriers for reference:

IATA Pet Carrier Sizes for Reference
Type	Appearance	Brand	Model	Internal Dimensions L x W x H	Product Page
Size 1 Carrier		IRIS	ATC-460	39 x 22 x 24 cm	Click to View
Size 2 Crate		IRIS	ATC-530	45 x 28 x 35 cm	Click to view
Size 2 Crate		Petmate	21-inch	47 x 34 x 36 cm 18.75" x 13.5" x 14.5"	Click to view
Size 3 Crate		IRIS	ATC-670	56 x 35 x 49 cm	Click to view
Size 3 Crate		Petmate	28-inch	61 x 46 x 49 cm 24.25" x 18.25" x 19.5"	Click to view
Size 3 Crate		Hoopet	Size 3｜65cm inner length	65 x 46 x 42 cm	Click to view
Size 4 Crate		Petmate	32-inch	74 x 50 x 59 cm 29.5" x 19.75" x 23.5"	Click to view
Size 4 Crate		Hoopet	Size 4｜75cm inner length	75 x 48 x 53 cm	Click to view
Size 5 Crate		IRIS	ATC-870	75 x 49 x 63 cm	Click to view
Size 5 Crate		Petmate	36 inch	cm 82 x 57 x 66 cm inch 32.5" x 22.5" x 26"	Click to view
Size 5 Crate		Hoopet	Size 5 Crate｜Internal Length 85cm	cm 85 x 53 x 62 cm	Click to view
Size 6 Crate		Petmate	40 inch	cm 92 x 62 x 73 cm inch 36.25" x 24.75" x 28.8"	Click to view
Size 6 Crate		Hoopet	Size 6 Crate｜Internal Length 95cm	cm 95 x 60 x 70 cm	Click to view
Size 7 Crate		Petmate	48 inch	cm 111 x 73 x 82 cm inch 44" x 29" x 32.5"	Click to view
Size 7 Crate		Hoopet	Size 7 Crate｜Internal Length 120cm	cm 120 x 73 x 82 cm	Click to view

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2.2 Cathay Pacific Checklist

Cathay Pacific has also prepared a checklist for passengers to help them track their preparation progress. You can download it using the link below:

Further reading

• Cathay Pacific Regulations: Pet Carrier Guidelines

3. Prohibited Pets

Due to the risk of heatstroke or breathing difficulties in brachycephalic cats and dogs (including those with flat noses, short snouts, or flat faces) in stressful or high-temperature environments, which poses a health risk, Cathay Pacific does not accept brachycephalic cats and dogs as checked baggage. For the safety of all passengers, a small number of other pets are also not allowed to be carried on board. The list is as follows:

3.1 Prohibited Brachycephalic Dog Breeds

• Affenpinscher
• Boston Terrier
• Boxer
• Brussels Griffon
• Bulldog (all breeds)
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
• Chow Chow
• Dogue de Bordeaux
• English Toy Spaniel
• Japanese Chin/Japanese Spaniel
• Lhasa Apso
• Mastiff (all breeds)
• Pekingese
• Pug (all breeds)
• Shar Pei
• Shih Tzu
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier
• Tibetan Spaniel

3.2 Prohibited Brachycephalic Cat Breeds

• British Shorthair
• Burmese
• Exotic Shorthair
• Himalayan Cat
• Persian Cat
• Scottish Fold
• Sphynx Cat

3.3 Prohibited Fighting Dog Breeds

• American Pit Bull
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Dogo Argentino
• Fila Brasileiro
• Japanese Tosa

Further Reading

• Cathay Pacific Regulations: Prohibited Animal List
• Cathay Pacific Regulations: Travelling with Animals

4. Pet Transportation Fees

The following transportation fees are calculated based on pets transported as checked baggage, determined by the total weight of the pet and its crate, and charged in the equivalent local currency. Please refer to the table below to calculate the fees. Remember that the final decision rests with Cathay Pacific, so it's essential to inquire beforehand!

☺️Friendly Reminder: Due to limited availability for pet check-in on flights from Hong Kong, please contact the Hong Kong reservations office as early as possible to confirm and reserve a pet space.

Cathay Pacific Contact Information:

• Reservations Flight Inquiry: +852 2747 3333
• Baggage Services: +852 2747 7838
• Whatsapp: +852 2747 2747

Cathay Pacific's method for calculating fees distinguishes between different flight routes. In general, it is divided into 5 route zones, with 5 different pricing standards. This time, we will list the transportation fees for 6 regions that most people choose: the UK, Australia, New Zealand, the USA, Canada, and Taiwan.

4.1 Taiwan Transportation Fees

Taiwan is part of Cathay Pacific's Zone 1 - Asia and selected routes, which also includes Asian regions like Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. Fees are calculated based on the total weight of the pet and its crate, at USD 13 per kilogram (approximately HKD 101.4).

4.2 UK, Australia, New Zealand Transportation Fees

The UK is part of Cathay Pacific's Zone 4 - Europe, Africa, and Southwest Pacific, including Europe, Africa, and the Southwest Pacific. Fees are calculated based on the total weight of the pet and its crate, at USD 25 per kilogram (approximately HKD 195).

4.3 USA, Canada Transportation Fees

The USA and Canada are part of Cathay Pacific's Zone 5 - Americas, which also includes Canada, Mexico, and the USA. Fees are calculated based on the number of baggage items. For pets and their crates with a total weight not exceeding 23 kg (50 lbs) and dimensions not exceeding 158 cm (62 inches), the charge is USD 400 per item (approximately HKD 3,120).

⚠️Please note: If the total weight/size of the pet and its crate exceeds 23 kg (50 lbs) or 158 cm (62 inches), you may be subject to additional fees and required to notify relevant Cathay Pacific staff in advance.

If the total weight of the pet and its crate exceeds 32 kg (70 lbs) and/or the total dimensions exceed 203 cm (80 inches), you will be charged four times the excess baggage fee (per item).

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5. Excess Weight Additional Fees

Additional surcharges apply for overweight or oversized items in the following 3 situations:

• Overweight: Not exceeding 32 kg (70 lbs) but less than 158 cm (62 inches), an additional fee of USD 150 per item (approximately HKD 1,170).
• Oversized: Not exceeding 203 cm (80 inches) but less than 23 kg (50 lbs), an additional fee of USD 150 per item (approximately HKD 1,170).
• Overweight and Oversized: Not exceeding 32 kg (70 lbs) and 203 cm (80 inches), an additional fee of USD 300 per item (approximately HKD 2,340).

If the total weight of the pet and its crate exceeds 32 kg (70 lbs) and/or the total dimensions exceed 203 cm (80 inches), you will be charged four times the excess baggage fee (per item).

Further Reading

• Cathay Pacific Regulations: Calculate Cost

6. Airport Pet Check-in Procedures

Please arrive at the airport and check in at least three hours before your flight's departure. Ensure your pet is in its crate, and you have all original pet travel documents. Here's the check-in procedure:

1. After your pet is checked in, it will be transported to the aircraft's cargo hold.
2. Your pet's crate will be securely fastened. We will ensure adequate temperature and ventilation.
3. Upon arrival, your pet will be treated as special baggage, and Cathay Pacific will reunite you with your pet as quickly as possible.

Further Reading

• Cathay Pacific Regulations: Airport Check-in Procedures

7. Special Feature: UK Pet Travel Scheme (London, Manchester Airports)

The Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) allows ferrets, cats, and dogs from eligible countries to enter the UK via London or Manchester airports without undergoing the usual 6-month quarantine period.

Further Reading

• Cathay Pacific Regulations: Pet Travel Scheme, London and Manchester Airports

Summary

It is crucial to ensure your pet is accustomed to airline-specific travel crates, which differ from wire or sleeping crates. To prepare your pet for travel, it's recommended to acquire the travel crate at least two or three weeks, or even earlier, before the trip, allowing your pet to properly adapt to it. This process is known as the "crate acclimatisation period." To minimise stress during travel, it's essential for your pet to feel comfortable and secure in its crate.

The pet crate must be lined with absorbent material, such as towels or blankets, to prevent any leakage of pet waste.

If your pet shows any signs of not adapting to the crate or appears to be under extreme stress during check-in, the airline may determine that your pet is not ready for travel and may refuse to accept the pet for boarding.

Finally, we wish everyone a smooth relocation, and good health to both pets and their owners!

🔥🔥🔥Latest News: Purchase any airline carrier and receive a 20% discount on a water dispenser or other airline carrier accessories.Discount Code: travel20off

Note: To use the coupon, you must add both the airline carrier and the water dispenser or other airline carrier accessories to your shopping cart.

Revisit Good Reads:

We have written a series of articles to help you.

• "2026 Hong Kong Pet Immigration" How to choose a pet airline carrier? 5 major criteria for choosing a carrier
• "2026 Hong Kong Pet Immigration" Cathay Pacific Airways Pet Air Transport Rules
• "2026 Hong Kong Pet Immigration" British Airways Pet Air Transport Rules
• How to choose a pet stroller in Hong Kong? What is the difference between "three-wheeled" and "four-wheeled"? "2026 Update"