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Spain animal welfare and regulation

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2026-09-28 13:41 UTC → 2026-10-03 12:35 UTC · added ~~removed~~

In Spain, reports indicate high rates of feline vulnerability, with a Sanicat study finding that 8 out of 10 cats in households were rescued from the street or adopted from shelters. In regions such as Navarra, over 51% of owners reported pets that were abandoned or without owners. Additionally, Ministry data shows that 95% of cats entering collection centers lack microchips. Animal welfare associations across 38 provinces are calling for the enforcement of Law 7/2023, specifically requesting government funding for the Capture-Esterilize-Return (CER) method to manage feline colonies. Law 7/2023 establishes various regulations for pet owners and businesses. Under the law, owners are prohibited from leaving animals unsupervised in public or protected spaces to prevent environmental or safety risks. The legislation also bans the use of injurious handling tools, such as electric or choking collars. Furthermore, the law regulates animal access to hospitality businesses, allowing establishments to permit animals in non-food preparation areas while maintaining the right to prohibit entry based on local health regulations. Recent developments clarify the management of urban cat populations under the Law for the Protection of Animal Rights and Welfare. The law recognizes the “community cat” as a specific legal figure, distinguishing them from domestic cats and feral cats. Community cats are defined as animals living in free colonies that may include a mix of feral individuals and abandoned cats that tolerate human presence. To manage these populations, the law establishes the CER method (Capture, Sterilization, and Return) as the only ethical and scientifically supported approach. Consequently, the regulation prohibits removing these cats from their colonies, except for veterinary reasons or during the socialization and adoption of kittens. Several municipalities have begun implementing local initiatives to support these welfare standards.

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