It was from last Thursday, January 1st, that the Netherlands began to ban the keeping of hairless cats, such as the Sphynxand folded-eared cats, like the Scottish Foldlike pets. According to animal news portal Pets & Co, the decision aims to prevent suffering caused by physical characteristics selected solely for aesthetic reasons.
The measure applies to both the purchase and sale of these animals and their maintenance at home, with those who do not comply facing fines of 1,500 euros. According to the same source, specimens that already belong to families may remain with their current owners, as long as they are identified with a microchip before the law comes into force.
Extension of the ban
The ban expands existing legislation, which since 2014 has prevented the creation of breeds whose characteristics are directly associated with health problems. The portal writes that, with the new law, it is no longer permitted not only to breed, but also to buy, sell or keep these pet cats as pets. design.
Fold-eared and hairless cats are included in this measure. The publication adds that existing specimens are still allowed in private homes, but will not be able to participate in exhibitions or competitions, even if they were born before the deadline.
Breed-associated health problems
According to the same source, the genetic mutation that causes the dog’s folded ears Scottish Fold It affects cartilage throughout the body, causing pain, early osteoarthritis, difficulty moving around and, in extreme cases, paralysis. Now the cats Sphynx They have difficulty regulating temperature, greater sensitivity to skin and ear infections and risk of burns or cancer due to sun exposure.
These physical changes, selected solely for aesthetics, compromise the animals’ quality of life and led to the extension of the ban beyond breeding, also covering ownership.
Cats born before 2026 and with a microchip can remain with their owners. According to the same source, animals without identification or born after 2026 are immediately subject to the ban, and their keeping as pets must be prevented.
Furthermore, legislation prohibits the participation of these cats in competitions or exhibitions, even when they have been owned by families for several years. The intention is to progressively reduce the presence of designer breeds in the Dutch feline population.
Support from veterinary associations
The decision received support from veterinary organizations, such as the KNMvD association, in the Netherlands, and the UEVP, at European level. Note that these entities consider the measure a firm step in the fight against breeds of designin which appearance is prioritized over health.
According to the portal, the legislation aims to ensure that the selection of animals as companions prioritizes well-being and quality of life, gradually eliminating characteristics that cause suffering or vulnerability. For now, in Portugal there is no proposal for a ban on these two breeds of cats.
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