In 2023, it enacted the new Animal Welfare Law in Spain, a piece of legislation aimed at protecting domestic animals and promoting more ethical and responsible pet ownership. Although it has sparked controversy over what it excludes—such as wild or purpose-specific animals—this pet-focused law represents an important step toward animal rights and respect in Spain.
But what about cats? Many of the new measures seem to focus mainly on dogs, which can give the impression that felines are left out of the conversation. However, if you have a cat at home, it’s important to know how this new regulation also applies to you. For example, one of the law’s key changes affects the adoption process for pets. That’s why, in this blog, we review the most relevant parts of the law from a cat lover’s perspective and explain how you can adapt to its requirements as a responsible owner.
What Does the Animal Welfare Law in Spain Establish?
The Animal Welfare Law in Spain sets out a number of obligations for cat owners, along with new restrictions and penalties for non-compliance. The central goal is to ensure the physical and emotional well-being of companion animals and to curb the alarming rates of abandonment.
From now on, having a cat comes with specific legal responsibilities: it’s not just about feeding them or taking them to the vet when they’re sick, but about ensuring their overall quality of life.
Why Was This New Legislation Created?
Spain has one of the highest rates of animal abandonment in Europe. Each year, thousands of cats and dogs end up in shelters or, worse, on the streets (in that year alone, 285,000 pets were reported abandoned). The Animal Welfare Law is an attempt to reverse this trend by establishing stricter rules for responsible pet ownership.
It also seeks to align the country with European guidelines on animal rights, which view pets as sentient beings—not objects.
What Does This Law Have to Do with My Cat?
Although the law has been criticized for its “dog-centered” approach, it does include important provisions for cats as well. As an owner, you are now legally required to meet certain minimum care standards—and failing to do so can lead to penalties.
New measures that directly affect cats include mandatory sterilization, registration in an official database, supervision of how long they are left alone, and the prohibition of certain practices that may have previously gone unnoticed.
Mandatory Sterilization: A Key Measure
One of the most controversial—and at the same time most necessary—parts of the pet legislation in Spain is mandatory sterilization. All cats not registered as breeding animals must be sterilized before they are six months old.
This measure aims to prevent unwanted litters and, in doing so, reduce the number of abandoned cats. It also helps improve the cat’s health and reduce aggressive or territorial behaviors.
At Sepicat, where feline well-being is our top priority, we understand that this measure may seem restrictive. However, we also know that a sterilized and well-cared-for cat will live a longer, calmer, and happier life—and, of course, will appreciate a clean, suitable litter box for their daily routine. At Sepicat, we help you choose the perfect litter and offer plenty of tips on our blog.
What Penalties Should I Be Aware Of?
The new cat regulations in Spain include penalties for owners who fail to meet their responsibilities. Some of the punishable actions include:
- Failing to provide food, water, or basic veterinary care. Be sure to recognize signs of illness and take your cat to the vet at least once a year.
- Leaving your cat unsupervised for more than three consecutive days.
- Allowing breeding without legal authorization.
- Abandoning your cat (with fines ranging from €10,000 to €50,000).
Additionally, maintaining proper hygiene is mandatory. In this sense, keeping a clean litter box that suits the number of cats in your home is more than just a recommendation—it’s part of your responsibility for their well-being.
What Are People Saying About This Law?
The law has received mixed reactions. While animal welfare organizations welcome the recognition of animal rights in Spain, some sectors criticize the law as excessive—especially due to breeding restrictions and the financial demands it may place on pet owners.
As for cat owners, many have praised the law’s preventive approach but also call for greater visibility and educational campaigns specifically for felines, since their needs are often less understood than those of dogs.
Toward a More Mindful Way of Caring for Our Cats
The implementation of the Animal Welfare Law in Spain marks a turning point in how we understand our coexistence with pets. As cat owners, we now face both the challenge—and the opportunity—to elevate the level of care we provide.
Understanding our responsibilities not only helps us avoid penalties: it improves our cats’ lives and strengthens our bond with them. Sepicat supports this vision by offering products designed to improve feline hygiene and comfort, contributing to compliance with this new law in our everyday routines.
Educate, care, and respect: this is the new normal for cat lovers in Spain—and it’s good news for everyone.
Is it mandatory to register my cat somewhere according to the Animal Welfare Law in Spain?
Yes. According to the Animal Welfare Law in Spain, all cats must be registered in an official regional database. This is done through a microchip inserted by a veterinarian, which then allows for their identification and tracking. While this used to be more common for dogs, it now also applies to cats as part of pet legislation.
Can I leave my cat alone if I go on a trip?
The regulations for cats in Spain state that cats cannot be left alone at home for more than three consecutive days without supervision. This means that if you’re going to be away, you must leave someone in charge of the animal or hire a cat care service. This measure aims to prevent neglect, even if it is unintentional.
Are there penalties for not sterilizing my cat?
Yes. If your cat is not sterilized and you are not a licensed breeder, you could receive a fine. Penalties under the Animal Welfare Law vary depending on the severity of the violation, but failure to comply with the feline sterilization requirement can be considered a minor or serious offense, with fines ranging from €500 to €10,000.
Is it prohibited to give cats as prizes in raffles or contests?
Yes. This new pet legislation prohibits giving cats (or any other animals) as prizes, gifts in raffles, contests, or promotions. The law seeks to prevent the impulse acquisition of animals without prior reflection on the responsibilities of cat ownership and the animal’s welfare.
What happens if I find and abandoned cat on the street?
If you find a seemingly abandoned cat, the first step is to take it to a veterinarian or an authorized center to check if it has a microchip. Authorities must be notified so they can handle its protection. Under the Animal Welfare Law in Spain, abandonment is punishable, and rescued animals must go through a protection protocol before being relocated or adopted.