The European Parliament has voted to make microchipping and registration mandatory for all cats and dogs in the EU. This is to stop illegal trade and improve animal welfare.
Currently, 24 EU countries require pet registration, but the systems are not connected. A private group, Europetnet, links databases in 17 countries. The new law will create common rules for all EU countries.
Dogs and cats brought into the EU from other countries must also be microchipped and registered before they enter. This will help stop illegal breeding and irresponsible imports.
Animal welfare groups are happy with the decision. They say it will ensure better care for animals, including proper food, vet visits, and protection from abuse. It will also stop unregulated breeding and puppy mills.
The law will also limit how many litters a female animal can have in her lifetime. This applies to all breeders, big or small. Small breeders are included in the law, which is important in countries where most breeders have fewer than four litters per year.
There are about 127 million cats and 104 million dogs in the EU. Around 44% of households have a pet. The pet industry is worth €1.3 billion each year.
The law may also protect other pets in the future. A 'Positive List' could be created to decide which animals are suitable to be kept as pets.
The European Parliament and EU ministers will now negotiate the final details of the law.