Check CDC animal-health restrictions, USDA guidance, the destination jurisdiction and airline acceptance for the exact species.
Small mammals entering the United States
Start with the exact species and the final destination.
“Small mammal” is a convenient category, not one government rule. Rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, chinchillas, ferrets, hedgehogs and sugar gliders can face different federal, state, territorial and airline restrictions.
Ownership or import restrictions can apply at state, territorial or local level even when the animal is permitted elsewhere.
California does not allow sugar gliders as ordinary pets. Other destinations may require permits or prohibit possession, so confirm legality before making any travel arrangements.
California Department of Fish and Wildlife guidance ↗Your small-mammal starting checklist
- Identify the animal precisely.Record the common and scientific name. Similar-looking species can be regulated differently.
- Confirm that possession is legal at the destination.Check state, territorial, county and city rules before researching flights or certificates.
- Check federal animal-health rules.Review CDC and USDA guidance for the exact species and country of origin.
- Check wildlife and protected-species rules.U.S. Fish and Wildlife permits or inspection may apply to wildlife and CITES-listed species.
- Ask the airline about acceptance.Many carriers do not accept every small-mammal species, and acceptance may differ between cabin, baggage and cargo.
- Check the departure country.An export permit, health certificate or government endorsement may be required before the animal can leave.
The animal’s exact species and destination determine whether the movement is simple, permit-controlled or prohibited.