As of January 1, 2023, it is illegal to own a cat that is not ID marked by a veterinarian and registered with the Swedish Board of Agriculture. The ID marking, which can be done by either a tattoo or a chip, contains a unique number that is valid throughout Europe.
– There is only one cat that has exactly that number, so it is your cat forever, says Niclas Hellström, small animal veterinarian.
The measure hopes to give cats a higher status, and cat owners a clearer sense of responsibility.
Unmarked cats: punishment and care
For those cat owners who, despite the new law, choose not to tag and register their cat, a so-called fine can be issued, i.e. a fine that the cat owner then has to pay. Should a cat that does not have an ID tag or that is not registered in the Swedish Agency for Agriculture’s register become a stray and is taken to a cat shelter – the cat will immediately belong to the cat shelter.
In the clip: Come along when Freddy is microchipped – and hear from the vet about why you who see the law as unnecessary should reconsider.