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

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

✈️What are the requirements of Cathay Pacific (CX) for pet transportation and pet carriers?

Today, we will explain the regulations to help you better understand Cathay Pacific's policies. We have categorized the most frequently asked questions into 6 categories, and since the content is very long, we have listed different questions in the directory 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 and also serve as a checkpoint for relevant departments in Hong Kong and the destination country. As long as the correct documents are obtained and procedures are followed, there should be no major issues or difficulties. Refer to the document list below for reference.

1.1 List of Pet Health Certificate Documents

• A pet health certificate issued or endorsed by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department of Hong Kong, certifying that the pet's health condition is sufficient for the flight.
• Valid import/export permits and other required supporting documents issued by 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 relevant documents required by the relevant authorities of all transit countries (for layovers).

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

1.2 UK Government Document Requirements

This time, we'll take the UK as an example. The authorities require pets entering the country to have a microchip for identification. There are two types of microchips, AVID and ISO, but not all UK airports have microchip readers that can read AVID chips, so an ISO microchip is generally safer. After microchipping, owners must vaccinate their pets against rabies at least 21 days before departure to arrange exit documents.

After the pet has been microchipped and vaccinated, to meet the "no quarantine" entry requirements, the owner must take the pet, vaccination records, etc., to a Hong Kong veterinary clinic to obtain a pet passport issued by the veterinarian, and then submit it to the UK Animal and Plant Health Agency. The passport will clearly list the owner's information, veterinarian's information, animal microchip information, animal physical description, rabies vaccination records, rabies blood test records, and deworming records.

If the owner chooses to travel to the UK on a different flight than their pet, they must ensure that 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 genuinely cannot arrive in the UK within the time limit, they can also authorize another person in writing to temporarily take 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's health condition is sufficient for the flight. Owners should take their pets for a check-up at a veterinary clinic 5 days before departure, and then submit an application to the AFCD. Furthermore, the UK requires pets to enter within 24 to 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 to HMRC for a ToR (Transfer of Residence) to prove that the pet is migrating with the owner and not a commodity, to avoid being charged VAT.

Upon arrival in the UK, pets will be taken directly for customs clearance, where local veterinarians will examine their health and observe for any adverse reactions. After approximately 6 to 8 hours, owners can collect their pets from the animal reception center.

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

⚠️Please note: The above requirements may vary across different countries and may change at any time. Please check with individual destinations or transit countries for specific inquiries.

Further Reading

• Cathay Pacific Cargo: Pet Transportation Page

2. Pet Carrier Requirements and Regulations

In the previous article, we already specified the regulations of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) (you can read it by clicking the link below). Most of these are similar to Cathay Pacific's terms. For details, please see the terms below:

2.1 Cathay Pacific Pet Carrier Requirements Details

Generally, the carrier must be appropriately sized, well-ventilated, sturdy, secure, and have a leak-proof bottom. It must also comply with the following regulations:

• The carrier must be made of materials such as fiberglass, metal, rigid plastic, or welded metal mesh, but wooden carriers are not accepted.
• Foldable carriers are not considered sturdy enough and will not be accepted.
• Carriers made entirely of welded mesh or wire mesh are not accepted.
• The carrier must be clean and leak-proof.
• A absorbent mat, such as clothing or a blanket, must be placed 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, turn around, and lie down naturally.
• The carrier must have ventilation on three sides, with the main ventilation at the top, equipped with sturdy, breathable metal mesh.
• For dog carriers, the maximum opening size in the welded mesh is 25 mm x 25 mm (1 inch x 1 inch). For cat carriers, the maximum size is 19 mm x 19 mm (¾ inch x ¾ inch). All openings in the welded mesh must 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 drinking water directly from outside the carrier.
• The top of the water dispenser must be open to allow the animal unrestricted access to water, and it must be securely fixed inside the carrier.
• Water bottles or similar drinking devices attached to the inside or outside of the carrier are not considered open drinking 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 your pet with water 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 for handlers to prevent injury from the animal.

If a service dog accompanies you (such as a guide dog), 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 by cargo.

Pet Carrier Size Calculator

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

From tip of nose to base of tail (A) From elbow joint to ground (B) Suitable inner length of pet carrier (A + ½ B):

Recommended Pet Carrier:

Mao Haizhihua Pet Carrier Inner Dimensions Table

There are pet carriers of different sizes for different 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 dimensions of different pet carriers.

Please refer to the inner dimensions of the pet carriers below for reference?

IATA Pet Carrier Size Reference
Type	Appearance	Brand	Model	Inner Dimensions Length x Width x Height	Product Page
Size 1 Carrier		IRIS	ATC-460	cm 39 x 22 x 24 cm	Click to View
Size 2 Carrier		IRIS	ATC-530	cm 45 x 28 x 35 cm	Click to View
Size 2 Carrier		Petmate	21-inch	cm 47 x 34 x 36 cm inch 18.75" x 13.5" x 14.5"	Click to View
Size 3 Carrier		IRIS	ATC-670	cm 56 x 35 x 49 cm	Click to View
Size 3 Carrier		Petmate	28-inch	cm 61 x 46 x 49 cm in 24.25" x 18.25" x 19.5"	Click to view
Crate No. 3		Hoopet	Crate No. 3 | 65cm internal length	cm 65 x 46 x 42 cm	Click to view
Crate No. 4		Petmate	32-inch	cm 74 x 50 x 59 cm in 29.5" x 19.75" x 23.5"	Click to view
Crate No. 4		Hoopet	Crate No. 4 | 75cm internal length	cm 75 x 48 x 53 cm	Click to view
Crate No. 5		IRIS	ATC-870	cm 75 x 49 x 63 cm	Click to view
Crate No. 5		Petmate	36-inch	cm 82 x 57 x 66 cm in 32.5" x 22.5" x 26"	Click to view
Crate No. 5		Hoopet	Crate No. 5 | 85cm internal length	cm 85 x 53 x 62 cm	Click to view
Crate No. 6		Petmate	40-inch	cm 92 x 62 x 73 cm in 36.25" x 24.75" x 28.8"	Click to view
Crate No. 6		Hoopet	Crate No. 6 | 95cm internal length	cm 95 x 60 x 70 cm	Click to view
Crate No. 7		Petmate	48-inch	cm 111 x 73 x 82 cm in 44" x 29" x 32.5"	Click to view
Crate No. 7		Hoopet	Crate No. 7 | 120cm internal length	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, allowing you to check the progress of your preparations as you plan. You can download it using the link below:

Further reading

• Cathay Pacific Regulations: Pet Carrier Guidelines

3. Restricted Pets List

Due to the risk of heatstroke or breathing difficulties in brachycephalic (short-nosed, flat-faced, or snub-nosed) cats and dogs in stressful or hot environments, Cathay Pacific does not accept brachycephalic cats and dogs as checked baggage. For the safety of all passengers, a few other pets are also not allowed on board. The list is as follows:

3.1 Restricted 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 Restricted Brachycephalic Cat Breeds

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

3.3 Restricted Fighting Dog Breeds

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

Further Reading

• Cathay Pacific Regulations: Animal Embargo List
• Cathay Pacific Regulations: Travelling with Pets

4. Pet Transportation Fees

The following shipping fees are calculated based on pets being transported as checked baggage, determined by the total weight of the pet and its carrier, and charged in the equivalent local currency. Please refer to the table below for fee calculation. Remember that Cathay Pacific retains final discretion, so it's essential to inquire before proceeding!

☺️Friendly Reminder: Due to limited availability for pet cargo space from Hong Kong, please contact the Hong Kong reservations office as early as possible to confirm your pet's flight booking.

Cathay Pacific Contact Information:

• Reservations Department (Flight Inquiries): +852 2747 3333
• Baggage Services: +852 2747 7838
• Whatsapp: +852 2747 2747

Cathay Pacific calculates fees based on different flight routes. In general, they are divided into 5 route zones, with 5 different pricing standards. For now, we will list the shipping costs for the 6 regions most frequently chosen by friends: the UK, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada, and Taiwan.

4.1 Taiwan Shipping Fees

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

4.2 UK, Australia, New Zealand Shipping Fees

The UK falls under Cathay Pacific's Zone 4 - Europe, Africa, Southwest Pacific, which also includes Europe, Africa, and the Southwest Pacific. Charges are calculated based on the total weight of the pet and its carrier, at USD 25 per kilogram (approximately HKD 195).

4.3 USA, Canada Shipping Fees

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

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

If the total weight of the pet and its carrier 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 Surcharges

In the following 3 situations, overweight or oversized items will incur additional surcharges:

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

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

Further Reading

• Cathay Pacific Regulations: Calculate Cost

6. Airport Pet Check-in Procedures

Please arrive at the airport and complete check-in at least three hours before your flight's departure. Ensure your pet is in its carrier and you have all original pet travel documents. The check-in procedure is as follows:

1. After your pet is checked in, it will be transported to the aircraft's cargo hold.
2. Your pet's carrier will be carefully secured. We will ensure the temperature is appropriate and there is sufficient 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. Extra: UK Pet Travel Scheme (London, Manchester Airports)

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

Further Reading

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

Summary

Make sure your pet is accustomed to an airline-approved pet carrier, as these are different from wire or sleeping crates. To ensure your pet is ready for travel, obtain the travel carrier at least two to three weeks, or even earlier, before your pet's trip to allow them to properly adapt to it. This process is called the "crate acclimatization period." To reduce stress during travel, it is crucial for your pet to feel comfortable and secure in its carrier.

The pet carrier must be lined with an absorbent pad, such as a towel or blanket, to prevent pet waste from spilling out.

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

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

🔥🔥🔥Latest News: Purchase a pet travel crate now and get a 20% discount on a water dispenser or other pet travel crate accessories.Discount code: travel20off

Note: You must have both the pet travel crate and the water dispenser or other pet travel crate accessories in your shopping cart to use the coupon.

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 selection
• "2026 Hong Kong Pet Immigration" Cathay Pacific Airways Pet Cargo Regulations
• "2026 Hong Kong Pet Immigration" British Airways Pet Cargo Regulations
• How to choose a pet stroller in Hong Kong? What's the difference between "three-wheeled" and "four-wheeled"? "2026 Update"