Most Popular Pets in Italy
Quick answer
In Italy, cats and dogs are the most popular pets, and Italy is also famous for keeping a very large number of pet birds and fish. Free-roaming community cats have legal protection, especially in Rome.
Pet culture in Italy
Italy has one of the largest pet populations in Europe, with cats and dogs leading the way and an unusually high number of pet birds and fish as well. Italy is especially known for its affection toward cats: free-roaming community cats are protected by law, and Rome's feline colonies, including those among ancient ruins, are cared for by volunteers.
The most popular pets in Italy
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Cats
Hugely popular as house pets, and free-roaming community cats are protected by Italian law.
See the top 10 cat breeds -
Dogs
Kept in homes across the country and a familiar sight in Italy's piazzas and parks.
See the top 10 dog breeds -
Birds
Italy keeps a notably large population of pet birds compared with other European countries.
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Fish
Ornamental aquarium fish are among the most numerous pets in Italian homes.
Interesting facts about pets in Italy
- Italian law protects free-roaming community cats, and they cannot simply be removed from where they live.
- Rome's cat colonies, including those at ancient sites, are cared for by volunteer 'cat ladies' known as gattare.
- Italy keeps one of the largest populations of pet birds and fish in Europe.
Frequently asked questions about pets in Italy
What is the most popular pet in Italy?
Cats and dogs are the most popular pets in Italy. Italy also keeps an unusually large number of pet birds and fish compared with other European countries.
Are street cats protected in Italy?
Yes. Italian law protects free-roaming community cats. In Rome, established cat colonies, including those living among ancient ruins, are recognized and cared for by volunteers.
Are birds popular pets in Italy?
Yes. Italy keeps one of the largest populations of pet birds in Europe, alongside its many pet cats, dogs, and fish.