How to Travel with Exotic Pets (hamster, rabbit, ferret, snake, bird…)?

Traveling abroad with exotic pets presents certain challenges due to the wide variety of species involved and their specific needs. These animals, often sensitive to temperature fluctuations, travel-related stress, or handling, require careful preparation, as well as thorough knowledge of national and international regulations.

The complexity of administrative procedures, combined with health requirements and transport standards, demands meticulous planning from both pet owners and professionals to ensure the comfort and safety of exotic pets during transit. This guide aims to outline the main challenges about traveling internationally with exotic pets and to present the applicable rules and best practices for flying with exotic animals.

Which Animals Are Considered Exotic Pets?

Exotic pets are species that, unlike traditional domestic animals such as dogs and cats, have unique characteristics and are less commonly kept as household pets.

Common categories include:

• Small mammals: hamsters, rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, rats, mice
• Birds: parrots, parakeets, canaries, lovebirds
• Reptiles: snakes, lizards, turtles, iguanas
• Amphibians: frogs, salamanders
• Ornamental fish
• Invertebrates: tarantulas, stick insects

These animals often have specific physiological and behavioral needs, as well as regulatory requirements related to animal welfare, public health, conservation, and species protection.

Some species are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Traveling abroad of these animals is strictly regulated and requires the appropriate export and import permits.

For detailed information on protected species and international transport procedures, refer to the official CITES website.

Regulations may vary by country. We strongly recommended to consult the relevant national authorities or government agencies responsible for animal welfare and import/export controls.

Can You Travel with an Exotic Pet by Plane?

Flying with exotic pets is possible under specific conditions, which vary depending on the species, airline pet policy, and the requirements of the countries of departure and arrival.

General Airline Policies

Exotic pets may be transported in the cabin, as checked baggage, or via air cargo, depending on their size, species, and the airline’s pet policy. For example:

• In-cabin: some airlines may allow certain small species, such as small birds or rodents, to travel in the cabin if they are placed in an airline-approved carrier or cage and if their presence complies with the airline’s regulations.
• In the hold: In most cases, exotic pets must travel in the hold, in approved cages, under strict safety and welfare conditions.
• By air cargo: For larger, fragile, exotic, or strictly regulated species, transport via specialized air cargo is often required. This method provides optimal control over transport conditions, including temperature, ventilation, and handling.

Exotic Pets Allowed to Travel by Plane

Common types of exotic pets generally allowed to travel by air include small mammals (hamsters, rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, small rodents…) as well as reptiles (turtles, small lizards) and birds (parrots, parakeets, canaries, lovebirds…).

We strongly encourage you to verify requirements before traveling with your pet. Airline policies vary; some species may need CITES permits, health certificates, or import/export authorization.

Prohibited or Restricted Species

Some species are prohibited from air transport for health, safety, or regulatory reasons, including:

• Dangerous or venomous species (certain snakes, spiders, insects)
• CITES-protected animals without prior authorization
• Exotic pets whose possession is prohibited in the destination country

What Are the Requirements for Traveling with Exotic Pets?

Transporting exotic pets internationally is subject to strict administrative and health regulations, outlined below:

Required Documents

To travel abroad with your exotic pet, the following documents are generally required:

• Health certificate confirming that the animal is fit to travel, usually issued within 7 days prior to departure
• Proof of vaccinations and parasite treatments
• Electronic identification certificate, if applicable
• Import permit, if required
• CITES certificate for protected species

Health Protocols

Exotic pets must be up to date with vaccinations, according to a schedule appropriate for their species. For example, rabies vaccination may be required for certain exotic pets depending on local regulations. Internal and external parasite treatments are also generally required in the days preceding travel.

Before departure, it is recommended to:

• Have the animal examined by a licensed vet
• Verify that vaccinations and parasite treatments are up to date
• Ensure that the quarantine requirements of the destination country are known and followed
• Respect the waiting periods between vaccination and travel (g., 21 days for rabies vaccination)

Identification and Traceability

Exotic pets can be identified using a Pet microchip (ISO 11784/11785 standard), which is mandatory in many countries to facilitate health monitoring and traceability. Some exotic pets may also be identified via tattoo.

Quarantine

Depending on the destination country, quarantine may be required, particularly in cases of non-compliant documentation or suspected health issues. The duration and conditions vary according to local legislation.

How to Choose a Crate for Your Exotic Pet?

Selecting the right transport crate is critical for ensuring your exotic pet’s safety and comfort during air travel. It is essential to follow the International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards, which govern crate dimensions, ventilation, and structural integrity.

Key criteria to consider include:

• Size: The crate should allow the animal to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, while not being so large that the pet risks injury during transport.
• Ventilation: Adequate airflow is essential. Crates should have openings on at least three sides for proper ventilation.
• Durability: The structure must be robust and equipped with secure locking systems to prevent accidental openings.
• Materials: Use durable, easy-to-clean materials such as hard plastic or metal with a waterproof base.
• Integrated accessories: Crates should include fixtures for a water dish and, in some cases, a food dish.

Most airlines and health authorities require IATA-compliant cage, so it is essential to verify compliance before purchase.

How Much Does It Cost to Transport an Exotic Pet?

The cost to travel with exotic pets depends on multiple factors: transport method, pet size and weight, crate size, distance, and additional services (personalized assistance, door-to-door transport, etc.).

Indicative price ranges by transport mode:

• Checked baggage (cabin or hold): Typically €100–€500 depending on airline and animal size.
• Specialized air cargo: Rates range from €800–€3,000 depending on total weight (pet + crate), distance, and services provided.
• Additional costs: Purchase or rental of an IATA-approved crate (€80–€300), veterinary fees (health certificate, vaccinations, treatments), import permits, and airport handling fees.