I-CAD is the biggest database dedicated to carnivorous pets in France and in Europe - mainly meaning dogs, cats and ferrets.
It is the only place to store complete data on these animals’ identification in France, including their microchips and the details of their owners.
I-CAD falls under the remit of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food in France.
It is used by various services including animal shelters, pounds, the police, animal associations, veterinarians, breeders and pet shops.
Is it also used by pet owners, who can report a pet missing, stolen or found, track missing pets or update their owner details.
I-CAD also tracks pets’ health status and the behaviour of dogs.
It is free to register a pet with I-CAD (though there is a set fee of €9.23 in the case of a dog imported to France from elsewhere).
This can be done by going to a vet in France and asking to have a pet registered. There may however be a consultation fee to pay for the appointment.
In order to get an EU pet passport in France, the animal must be first registered on the I-CAD database.
This applies to residents in France as well as second-home owners.
You can read more about how British people with second homes in France can apply for an EU pet passport in France here: How to get a French EU pet passport as a British second-home owner
Find out more about I-CAD on its website here.
Article edited March 28, 2022 with registration tariff for an imported animal
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