First-ever EU rules for cats and dogs welfare

For the first time, the EU has agreed on common rules for the welfare of cats and dogs. They have also decided on new regulations regarding traceability, which include mandatory registration and microchip identification.  

− These rules recognise the intrinsic value of cats and dogs – an important advancement for animal welfare. Project 1882 views stricter EU legislation positively, but the success depends on how well the rules are implemented and whether Member States fully use the opportunities available, says Benny Andersson, CEO of Project 1882.  

The new rules mean, among other things, that breeders must follow minimum requirements for animal welfare. This includes feeding, veterinary care, housing conditions, and protection against neglect. The goal is to prevent mistreatment and put an end to puppy and kitten mills. However, there is a limitation: the rules apply only to larger breeders with more than five litters per year.  

Unfortunately, many animals are left entirely outside the new rules. Dogs in hunting and agriculture, as well as cats and dogs living on farms, are exempt from basic welfare principles. This means that around 2 million dogs and 18 million cats remain unprotected − corresponding to 3% and 23% of the EU population, respectively.  

− Remarkably, the legislation only applies to certain types of dogs and cats. Naturally, more animals need to be given this protection, concludes Benny Andersson.  

More information about the rules

The EU reached this agreement in a trilogue meeting, which is a meeting between the European Commission, the European Parliament, and the Member States to agree on the final form of legislation. They have agreed on measures to combat illegal trade in companion animals and to regulate breeding more effectively. In the new rules, the EU takes steps forward to reduce the suffering of dogs and cats with extreme physical traits − such as flat noses, bulging eyes, and excessive skin folds. These animals will no longer be allowed for breeding or participation in shows, due to the negative impact on their health and welfare. 

Another important part of the rules is the introduction of full traceability. All dogs and cats sold must be microchipped and registered, making it more difficult for illegal actors to operate. This is a major step forward in countering both illegal trade and abandoned animals. However, there is also a shortcoming here: for privately owned cats, the requirement will not be introduced in the EU for another 15 years. In Sweden, legislation on microchipping cats and dogs already exists − something Project 1882 has previously helped advocate for.  

Despite these advances, the EU has chosen not to include rules for other companion animals, such as tropical species. A so-called positive list – allowing only certain species as pets—could have strengthened animal protection by prohibiting species unsuitable as companion animals.