Travelling with a cat or dog is now much easier with the new EU pet passport available from any vet. All cats and dogs must have a passport containing details of a valid rabies vaccination. For a limited time Ireland, Malta, Sweden and the United Kingdom also require proof that the vaccination has been effective. The necessary tests must be carried out at least six months prior to travel to Ireland, Malta and the United Kingdom and 120 days after vaccination in the case of Sweden.
In addition, a tick treatment and a tapeworm (echinococcosis) treatment is required for entry into Ireland, Malta and the UK. Finland and Sweden require a tapeworm treatment. An electronic microchip will be introduced over the next five years to allow easy identification of the animal. In the meantime, a tattoo can be used as identification except in Ireland, Malta and the United Kingdom where a microchip is already required.