Adopting a cat from the Azores

Would you like to open your home to a cat from the Azores? Whether you would like to adopt one of our fosters or need help figuring out how to transport a cat you have rescued over the Atlantic, we can help. Besides offering some helpful tips and resources here, we can simplify the whole process and ensure the cat has all vaccinations and paperwork for you ahead of time.

Adopt one of our fosters

We have many lovely cats and kittens looking for a forever home. We take care that our fosters are well-socialized and we have a deep understanding of each of their characters - meaning, we make sure that the match is suitable in terms of temperament, home environment, etc. As our space is limited (we usually have a waitlist), an adoption very simply means that we can help more cats in need.

If you’re considering adopting a cat and bringing them home with you abroad, get in touch and we can set a time for you to meet. All of our cats are essentially travel-ready: vaccinated, microchipped, neutered/spayed, dewormed and have their rabies shot.

You wish to adopt a cat you rescued

If you have found a cat that you wish to bring back home with you, we can help you with the needed steps. The first step is to head to a veterinary clinic to be sure the cat does not already have a microchip (and therefore owner) and to check its health.

The cat will likely need to board at the clinic for a time, in order to get sterilized, dewormed, and treated for any ailments. They will also need vaccines and may need a rabies shot. Regulations vary, depending on the airline and your destination.

The most common requirements in our experience are:

  • A rabies vaccine 21 days before for travel

  • Pet Passport

  • Vaccination and booster (booster is typically 21 days after the first vaccine)

  • Microchip

  • Deflea/deworming within a couple days of travel

  • Health certificate within a couple days of travel

A few points to keep in mind for your flight booking:

  • When possible, book a direct flight

  • You need to inform the airline in advance that you’d like to travel with a pet

  • It is not permitted to transport a pregnant or breastfeeding animal

  • Airlines charge an additional fee for pet transport

  • Upon check-in, you’ll need to present documents such as health certificate, Pet Passport and proof that you booked the pet transport. It’s advisable to print these out rather than only have digital copies

Airlines

  • SATA Azores Airlines (allows transport of animals)

  • TAP Air Portugal (allows transport of animals)

  • Delta (allows some transport of animals)

  • Ryanair (does not allow transport of animals, except for some service animals)

  • Transavia (allows transport of animals)

  • TUI (allows transport of animals)

Other resources

  • Pet travel (helpful website that outlines each airlines’ policy and gives tips for your travel)

Preparing a cat for transport

  • If possible, make sure you’re already set up for your new cat at home

  • Allow your pet to get used to the carrier in the days before your flight, putting in a comfortable blanket and some treats inside

  • Keep your cat active in the hours before the flight

  • Feed your cat a light meal and water 2 hours before the flight is due to depart

  • The use of sedatives is typically discouraged due to health risks. If you feel it may be necessary to sedate your pet for travel, consult a veterinarian ahead of time to be sure it’s safe for the animal and that you have the right dose

  • Take extra food with you on the flight, especially in case of delays

Cats of Eden