Should Designer Cats and Dogs Be Outlawed?

What’s the story?

• Scotland is planning to effectively outlaw designer pets – such as munchkin cats and “teacup puppies” – amidst growing concerns about the suffering of the animals due to their genetic defects.

What types of designer pets would be banned?

• Scottish fold cats – popular amongst celebrities such as Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran – are unable to form cartilage, which causes long-term arthritis.

• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, which is often bred to have an unusually small skull which compresses the brain, affecting the dog’s spinal cord.
• French and English bulldogs, which experience breathing problems.

What is Scotland saying?

Scotland’s rural affairs minister Mairi Gougeon said, “The Scottish government believes that irresponsible breeders should be more accountable for their actions, so we will be looking to deter these practices through new licensing conditions, whilst encouraging responsible breeders to continue to follow good breeding practices."

She added:

"We will also be raising public awareness of the problems that irresponsible breeding can create. Ultimately, we want a modern licensing system in Scotland to improve conditions for these animals.”

What do you think?

Should the U.S. consider banning designer cats, dogs, and rabbits? Hit Take Action and tell your reps, then share your thoughts below.

—Josh Herman