European Parliament Mandates Microchipping for All Cats and Dogs

The European Parliament has approved mandatory microchipping for all cats and dogs across the EU. The measure, supported by MEPs, aims to combat illegal trade and improve animal welfare standards. Approved on Thursday (19.06.2025) with 457 votes in favor, 17 against, and 86 abstentions, the legislative proposal establishes the first uniform EU standards for breeding, housing, and tracking of dogs and cats. Animal protection organizations hailed the decision as a significant advancement, noting that the law will ensure basic standards, including proper nutrition, veterinary care, and protection from abuse, helping eliminate uncontrolled home breeding and abusive puppy and kitten farms. Additionally, MEPs proposed that dogs and cats imported from third countries for sale must be microchipped before entry and registered in a national database. With nearly 44% of Europeans owning a pet, the trade in dogs and cats has seen substantial growth recently, reaching €1.3 billion annually, according to the Commission. Approximately 60% of pet owners buy dogs or cats online. Today, there are 127 million cats and 104 million dogs in the EU, with about 44% of households owning a pet.