Yes, feeding stray cats is legal in Spain, but local governments may impose restrictions under municipal ordinances or animal welfare laws, such as Catalonia’s 2022 Decret 107/2022 or Madrid’s 2021 Ordenanza de Protección Animal. Compliance hinges on adherence to regional and municipal regulations, which often prioritize public health and nuisance prevention. Failure to comply can result in fines or administrative sanctions.
Key Regulations for Feeding Stray Cats in Spain
- Municipal Ordinances: Many cities, including Barcelona and Valencia, require permits for feeding stray animals in public spaces. Unauthorized feeding may lead to penalties under local ordenanzas de convivencia ciudadana.
- Animal Welfare Laws: The 2023 Ley 7/2023 de Protección Animal mandates that feeding must not create public health risks (e.g., attracting pests) or disturb public order. Violations may trigger inspections by Servicios de Protección Animal.
- Hygiene and Public Health: Regional health authorities, such as the Consejería de Sanidad de Andalucía, may restrict feeding in areas prone to zoonotic risks or sanitation issues. Feeding must comply with Real Decreto 1086/2020 on animal hygiene.
Local councils often publish specific guidelines; for example, Madrid’s Oficina de Protección Animal advises feeding only in designated areas to avoid conflicts with urban wildlife management. Always verify current regulations with the Ayuntamiento of the relevant municipality.