Council approves EU-wide rules on welfare and traceability of cats and dogs

The Council of the EU today adopted new legislation setting, for the first time, harmonised EU-wide standards for the welfare, breeding, identification and traceability of cats and dogs. The measure applies common requirements across breeders, sellers, shelters and online platforms involved in placing cats and dogs on the EU market.

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The regulation introduces mandatory identification and registration systems intended to provide full traceability throughout the Union. The Council said the rules respond to concerns over illegal trafficking, irresponsible breeding practices and the expansion of online pet sales, which it said have exposed animals and consumers to significant risks.

Maria Panayiotou, Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment of the Republic of Cyprus, said the adoption sends a clear message that animal welfare matters in Europe. She said the new rules aim to protect millions of cats and dogs, support responsible breeders and owners, and close the door on illegal operators.

The legislation progressively introduces mandatory identification and registration requirements for dogs and cats placed on the market or kept in the European Union, including privately owned animals. It includes phased implementation periods for some provisions and is expected to improve transparency in the pet trade while helping authorities tackle fraudulent practices and illegal trafficking networks operating across borders.

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The regulation will enter into force 20 days after publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

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