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Travelling with pet and her food

Hi all,


I will stay in Romania for at least 1 month, and will bring my cat. I always store enough food for a few weeks, or even months. Naturally, it contains meat. It is still in its original packaging from the store, bought in Switzerland. We travel by car through Germany, Austria, Hungary, then Romania. Does anyone know if it is OK to bring her cat food?

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Hi all,
I will stay in Romania for at least 1 month, and will bring my cat. I always store enough food for a few weeks, or even months. Naturally, it contains meat. It is still in its original packaging from the store, bought in Switzerland. We travel by car through Germany, Austria, Hungary, then Romania. Does anyone know if it is OK to bring her cat food? - @Maiti Tikka

Welcome,


Yes, you should have no problem.

@Maiti Tikka

Yes. As long as it's purchased in the EU no problem. You can buy most well know brands here though.

@Maiti Tikka

Just realised I'm wrong. You can only bring pet food into the EU from Switzerland in it's original packaging for medical reasons with an exemption certificate. Buy more once you get into the EU.

Hi there. You should be absolutely fine bringing a month's supply of sealed commercial cat food across the border, as you're moving within the EU's pet travel scheme. To be safe, I'd keep it in its original packaging. If you do run out, you can order some brands online, like Hill's Science Plan Adult 1-6 Chicken. I sometimes get it from McGrocer when I'm stocking up on my own bits. Have a great trip.

@Maiti Tikka
Just realised I'm wrong. You can only bring pet food into the EU from Switzerland in it's original packaging for medical reasons with an exemption certificate. Buy more once you get into the EU. - @Robin & Sue


Based on EU regulations, your statement is partially incorrect regarding the source of the pet food. While strict rules apply for bringing animal products into the EU from many non-EU countries, these restrictions do not apply to Switzerland.


Personal imports of pet food (containing meat/dairy) from Switzerland, Andorra, Liechtenstein, Norway, San Marino, or Andorra are generally allowed.


For other non-EU countries, special medical pet food is limited to under 2kg, must be in original packaging, not require refrigeration, and be for medical reasons. Then you need to bring a certificate from your vet.