Over 182,000 dogs and cats registered in Flanders last year

Over 182,000 dogs and cats registered in Flanders last year
Credit: Pxfuel

About 85,000 cats and just over 97,000 dogs were registered in Flanders last year – fewer than in 2021 and 2020, but the total number of pets is again higher than in pre-Covid-19 in 2019.

Among dogs, the common street dog is registered most often, with Max and Luna being the most popular names. Among cats, the European shorthair is registered most often, with Simba and Nala as the most popular names.

"I myself have one registered dog Sepp and two registered cats Frisco and Noël at home," Animal Welfare Minister Ben Weyts said. "Faithful friends who provide a lot of animal fun at the Weyts home."

An identification and registration requirement has been in place for dogs since 1998 and for cats since 2017. Before animals are sold, they must be registered in the DogID or CatID databases. This has several advantages, such as easily finding their home when they get lost. The authorities can also get a glimpse of certain evolutions through the databases.

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While the number of cats and dogs registered dropped, the total number of pets last year was higher than before the pandemic. Among dogs, the 'canis vulgaris' – or common street dog – is registered most often. Among cats, the European shorthair is registered most often.

"It only takes a little time to register your animal friend and it is a good investment in your animal's welfare," said Weyts. "If your dog or cat gets lost or stolen, you can be reunited much more easily thanks to proper registration."


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