The Netherlands Just Banned Scottish Folds and Sphynx Cats — And a Global Regulatory Wave for Pets Is Following

The Netherlands banned the breeding, sale, and import of Scottish Fold and Sphynx cats as of January 2026 due to genetic health issues inherent in these breeds, including painful joint disease and temperature regulation problems. The ban is part of a broader European movement, with the EU reaching a provisional agreement on its first comprehensive pet welfare legislation that mandates microchipping, breeding restrictions, and interoperable databases across all member states. Belgium is also considering similar breed-specific bans, signaling a growing global regulatory wave around pet welfare.