Pets make our lives happier and more enjoyable. Many people choose a dog, cat, rabbit, or bird as a loyal companion. Animals can offer comfort, company, and provide more exercise and structure in daily life. In Belgium, there are regulations for keeping pets. Not every animal is permitted as a pet. In this blog post, we explain which animals are allowed and provide useful information for each animal.
Why keep a pet?
Owning a pet is something very special for many people. Animals provide love, companionship, and never make you lonely. They’re always happy to see you and often bring a smile to your face. A dog gets you out for a walk every day. A cat snuggles up with you when you need a break. Children learn responsibility by caring for an animal. Pets also add structure to your day, as you have to feed, walk, or groom them at set times. Some people also keep an animal simply because they find it beautiful or fun. Whatever the reason, pets add warmth to your home.
Which animals can you keep as pets in Belgium?
In Belgium, there’s a list of animals you can keep as pets. This list is called the “positive list.” So, you can’t just keep any animal. Below, we discuss the most common and popular permitted pets.
1. Dogs
A dog is a loyal and sociable pet. It loves attention, walks, and playing. Dogs are intelligent and can learn many things, such as sitting, coming, or giving paws. They need daily exercise and love to be with their owners. There are many breeds, from small dogs like Chihuahuas to large dogs like Labradors. Each dog has its own unique personality. Dogs are suitable for people with time, patience, and love. Remember: a dog needs proper care with healthy food, annual vet checkups, and plenty of exercise. Therefore, dog insurance is a very smart move. A dog is a true lifelong friend.
2. Cats
Cats are calm and independent pets. They love cuddles, but like to decide when to leave. Cats are smart, clean, and can easily be left alone at home. They use a litter box and groom themselves by licking their fur. However, it’s important to brush their fur occasionally and check their nails. Consider cat insurance so you’re always covered. Cats love a cozy spot in the house where they can sleep or look out the window. Some cats can even go outside, if it’s safe. Cats are a good fit for people who want a loving pet but aren’t home all day. They give lots of love back.
3. Rabbits
Rabbits are gentle and friendly animals. They prefer to live with another rabbit, as being alone makes them unhappy. Rabbits need a spacious hutch and a place to run and jump. They primarily eat hay, supplemented with vegetables and special pellets. They also always need fresh water. Rabbits enjoy peace and quiet, but can also be playful. With patience, they become tame and will happily sit with you. They are suitable for people who are calm with animals. Pay close attention to their teeth and nails: they continue to grow and need care. Consider rabbit insurance if you want to cover the costs.
4. Guinea pigs
Guinea pigs are cheerful little rodents that love company. They squeak and whistle softly, especially when they recognize your voice or are being fed. They need to live in groups of at least two, otherwise they can become lonely. Guinea pigs primarily eat hay, supplemented with vegetables and special guinea pig pellets. They need a spacious cage with soft bedding and hiding places. Guinea pigs are easy to tame and almost never bite. They make good pets for children, provided they are handled gently. Regular care is important: their cage should be cleaned often and they should receive daily attention.
5. Hamsters
Hamsters are small rodents that are primarily active at night. They like to sleep during the day. They prefer to live alone in their enclosure and love tunnels, wheels, and hiding places. A hamster doesn’t need much space, but its enclosure must be safe and clean. They eat special hamster food and occasionally vegetables or fruit. They are cute and fun to watch, but their nocturnal rhythm makes them less suitable for small children. They usually don’t live very long, often only two to three years. Nevertheless, they can be a fun and sweet pet during that time.
6. Birds (such as parakeets, canaries and parrots)
Birds are colorful, cheerful animals that love to sing, whistle, or mimic each other. Species such as parakeets, canaries, zebra finches, and some parrots are popular pets. They enjoy living with a companion and need a spacious, clean cage with toys, perches, and a bath. Birds eat special bird food, sometimes supplemented with vegetables or fruit. They prefer light and quiet, but also enjoy flying out of the cage into a safe room. Birds need a regular routine and can become very tame if you talk to them often. They bring life and joy to your home. Visit the parrot insurance page for information about insurance.
7. Fishing
Fish are peaceful pets that are beautiful to watch. You can choose from various species, such as goldfish or tropical fish. They live in an aquarium that must be large enough for the number of fish. The water must be kept clean with a pump and filter. It’s also important that the water is the right temperature. Fish eat special fish food and need to be fed at set times. They can’t be cuddled, but their gentle movements do provide a sense of calm. Fish are ideal for people who love animals but have little time for care.
Also consider pet insurance
A pet brings a lot of love and joy, but sometimes also unexpected costs. If your animal gets sick or has an accident, veterinary bills can quickly mount up. Pet insurance helps you cover these costs. This way, you don’t have to worry about the care you’re giving your pet. You can go to the vet with peace of mind, without worrying about the bill. On our website pet-insurance-belgium.be , you can easily compare different insurance policies. This way, you can choose the one that best suits your pet and your budget.
