Mexico City Bans Display of Cats and Dogs in Cages or Display Cases: What You Need to Know

The Mexico City Congress approved a reform prohibiting the physical display of dogs and cats for sale in cages, display cases, or other spaces that restrict their movement or natural expression. This measure aims to enhance animal welfare, combat irregular commercial practices, and establish stricter rules for establishments involved in the sale or adoption of companion animals.

What Exactly is Prohibited?

The reform prevents dogs and cats from being displayed to the public under conditions that restrict their mobility or natural behavior, such as display cases or cages. The objective is to prevent stress, anxiety, fear, and behavioral alterations, effects supported by scientific evidence and international animal welfare criteria.

The initiative was promoted by Congressman Manuel Talayero Pariente (PVEM) and supported by members of his parliamentary group, with a ruling from the Animal Welfare Commission.

Key Changes in Returns and Animal Welfare

An amendment to Article 27 bis was also approved, presented by Congressman Miguel Ángel Macedo Escartín (MORENA), which stipulates that if an animal is returned within the first 72 hours after its acquisition, the establishment must verify that it is in conditions consistent with its welfare. This aims to prevent businesses from receiving injured, neglected, or mistreated animals.

Impact on Commercialization

According to legislator Talayero Pariente, these regulatory changes will curb irregular breeders, as well as clandestine operations, illegal trafficking, and irresponsible breeding of companion animals. For the formal sector, this entails adapting processes, facilities, and protocols in accordance with the guidelines to be issued by authorities.

Fines: Amounts and Sanctioning Authority

The Environmental and Land Use Attorney’s Office (PAOT) will be responsible for supervision and imposing sanctions. Fines range from 150 to 3,000 Units of Measure and Actualization (UMA), equivalent to between 16,900 and 339,000 pesos, according to the current UMA value. Sanctions apply to commercial establishments, shelters, rescue centers, and any space involved in the commercialization or adoption of companion animals.

When Does It Take Effect?

The prohibition will take effect 365 calendar days after its publication in the Official Gazette of Mexico City. During this transition period, authorities must issue technical guidelines on:

• Minimum facility characteristics
• Holding areas
• Handling conditions
• Animal delivery protocols

What Businesses Must Consider

For businesses and organizations, the transition year will be crucial for:

• Redesigning spaces and processes
• Training staff in animal handling and welfare
• Aligning contracts, delivery protocols, and returns
• Avoiding sanctions and reputational risks

The reform marks a structural change in how animal commercialization and adoption are promoted in Mexico City, with regulatory and operational implications that the sector must anticipate.

This entry originally appeared in [Líder Empresarial](https://www.liderempresarial.com).