As of August 18, 2026, Morocco's new law on stray animals has officially come into force. The legislation, which was published in the Official Bulletin earlier this year, establishes a legal framework for the management and protection of stray animals, including dogs and cats. It mandates local authorities to implement humane population control measures, such as sterilization and vaccination campaigns, and prohibits the killing of healthy animals.
The law also introduces penalties for animal abandonment and mistreatment, with fines ranging from 500 to 5,000 Moroccan dirhams. Additionally, it encourages the creation of animal shelters and the adoption of stray animals. This move aligns Morocco with international animal welfare standards and has been welcomed by animal rights organizations.
Local municipalities are now tasked with developing action plans to enforce the law, including the establishment of dedicated teams for animal management. The government has allocated funds to support these initiatives, aiming to reduce the stray animal population humanely over the coming years.
