These are the four pets you must already legally register.
In Spain, most people cherish their pets as family members. A recent study indicates 92% of Spaniards consider their animals part of the household. A new Animal Protection and Welfare Act is set to change daily life for pet owners by forbidding certain animals from living at home. The aim is to curb abuse, protect native species, and prevent the spread of invasive ones, with a detailed list of pets that cannot be kept as household animals. The changes will reshape how animal lovers care for their companions.
This newly approved legislation strengthens protections against mistreatment and introduces new obligations for owners. It also includes measures to safeguard native wildlife and prevent the introduction of species that could become invasive. As a result, millions of households may need to adjust their pet choices and routines.
Pets banned by the new Animal Welfare Law in Spain
Over the next five months, households with restricted pets will need to adapt to the new rules. The restricted list includes certain birds such as parrots and budgies, exotic reptiles like snakes, iguanas, lizards, and chameleons, various rodents such as rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and chinchillas, along with Vietnamese pigs, turtles, and hedgehogs. Spiders are also included because of potential health concerns. The following is a summarized catalog of species prohibited as pets under the new law:
- Birds: lovebirds and other species from outside the country
- Exotic reptiles: snakes, iguanas, lizards, chameleons
- Rodents: rabbits, guinea pigs, mice, hamsters, chinchillas
- Other species: Vietnamese pigs, turtles, hedgehogs, spiders
Beyond the restricted species, the legislation prohibits animal fighting and the continuous keeping of animals in patios, basements, or vehicles. It also states that an animal should not be left unattended for more than three days, and for dogs specifically, no more than 24 hours. The rules extend to commercial breeding, which must be conducted only by licensed breeders registered with the appropriate registry. The law does not apply to animals used for hunting, rescue, security, or certain displays.
Do you have a dog? Find out how the new Animal Protection Law affects canine owners. The standard also lists which breeds are permitted as pets, including dogs, cats, ferrets, falconry, and aquarium animals, while excluding certain wild species. In tandem, an amended Penal Code strengthens penalties for animal abuse, with potential prison terms, fines, and bans from keeping animals for those convicted.
These provisions set the tone for responsible animal care. Pet owners are expected to meet the shelter, care, and attention needs of their animals, taking into account their ecological, ethological, and physiological requirements. The aim is to ensure pets are easy to care for, do not threaten the environment if they escape or are abandoned, and to protect native habitats and species from disruption.
There is also a focus on dog ownership and how the new act may influence daily routines, public perceptions, and municipal responsibilities. Regulations emphasize the welfare of all species and their safe integration into the home environment, while guiding owners to align with ecological balance and ethical treatment of animals.
What happens if a household fails to comply? The new act emphasizes responsible ownership and sets expectations for behavior toward all domestic animals. It promotes a future where ethical treatment and sustainable practices are standard, encouraging households to adapt to the updated norms and avoid adopting prohibited pets. The transition will take time, but the underlying goal is clear: protect animals, safeguard ecosystems, and ensure compassionate care across the country.