I want to bring my cat to sxm. I understand I need a health certificate 2 weeks prior to trip and rabi shot proof. What about getting back into the us? so i need something else? also micro chip? if it can not be read why do they want it... thanks.

I don't know if SXM has a quarantine period (if so it could be long than your stay.) I haven't travelled from out of the country with a cat; only within USA and I had to have all papers and proof of shots etc.

You should check with immigration services.

Here is a link to the Animal Hospital of St. Maarten. You could download the application for the import permit on their website. Follow the instructions. You'll basically need the import permit along with your USDA health certificate and rabies vaccination certificate to enter St. Maarten.

Coming back to the US, you will need nothing, although the Airline you are travelling on might require an health certificate saying your pet is ok to travel, check your airlines requirement for details. We brought back a cat 3 years ago. Coming back in to the US, CBP told us they don't need any paperwork for cats. They only check paperwork on dogs.

Gee thanks. I had a hard time trying to get info on coming back to the states with the cat.... very apprecitated

How long will you be staying? All winter? Otherwise, I really would not put a cat through the trip and unfamiliar house...they freak out.
So many things could go wrong.

Agree. Could turn into a lost or runaway cat and the island doesn't need anymore homeless cats.

You are correct. I would NEVER put any of my kitties through a trip. I get a pet service.

One door ajar, a cleaning lady, the cat bolts as it is freaked over new surroundings.

Bad country for a lost kitty cat. Not only a homeless cat....there is a very unsavory element that throws them into dog fighting pits.

The OP here owns a home on the island so I’m guessing she’s probably staying for a lengthy visit. I agree though, that I will never understand why people would put their pets through the trauma of travel for a short stay of a month or less unless the pets are small enough to be cabin travelers, but even that is questionable.

Many airlines won't allow checked animals anymore. Only service animals with proper papers and smaller ones in carry on crates that will fit under a seat. They also restrict how many on each flight too.

The reason I want to bring her is!!! Would stay for at least 3 months. Yes home there. I have left her behind a few times, as my daughter lives above me and can take her, but she is very attached to me, and would not be good idea to leave her alone just for daughter to feed in our space.I feel the same about putting her through a very long day in a carrier, just not sure whats worse...Ok well back to drawing board I guess... i thought she would be better with me than withoug. She is an indoor cat, and would be very careful that she not get out... Jet blue takes cats, with specific regulations on carrier . and I already know what she needs from the vet... thanks,

Sasasal, if you are going to gone at least 3 months, I would say take your cat. Both your and your cat will be better off.

ESK is a member here and takes his cat for extended stays. Perhaps he could answer your questions if you send him a PM.