New California Pet Laws for 2026 Every Pet Owner Should Know

California pet owners have a few important legal changes to be aware of in 2026. These new laws focus on animal welfare, transparency in pet sales, and better protections for families bringing a new pet into their home. For dog and cat owners in Anaheim and throughout California, understanding these changes can help you make smarter, safer decisions for your pets. According to the Governor of California’s summary of new laws taking effect in 2026, the biggest pet-related updates involve a statewide ban on non-therapeutic cat declawing, new disclosure requirements for pet sellers, a ban on third-party pet brokers selling certain animals for profit, and new dog import certificate rules.

1. California now bans non-therapeutic cat declawing

One of the most talked-about new California pet laws for 2026 is the statewide ban on non-therapeutic cat declawing. Under AB 867, declawing or similar procedures on cats are no longer allowed unless a licensed veterinarian determines the procedure is medically necessary for a therapeutic purpose. The law also requires documentation when such a procedure is performed for medical reasons. In simple terms, elective declawing is now off the table in California.

For cat owners, this change is important because it reinforces a broader shift toward humane, welfare-focused care. If scratching is becoming an issue at home, the better path is now what many veterinarians have already been recommending: behavior guidance, scratching posts, nail trims, nail caps, and environmental management rather than surgery. For families considering adopting a cat, this law is also a reminder to plan ahead for normal feline behaviors and set up the home accordingly.

2. Pet sellers must disclose more information

Another major 2026 change is aimed at helping pet buyers know more about where an animal came from and what health history may already be known. Under AB 506, pet sellers are required to disclose the pet’s origin and health information. The Governor’s office also noted that the law voids contracts containing non-refundable deposits, a change intended to reduce bait-and-switch situations involving unhealthy pets and deceptive sales practices.

This matters because many families fall in love with a puppy or kitten before they have a clear picture of the animal’s background. More disclosure means more transparency before a purchase is finalized. For California pet owners, that can make it easier to ask informed questions, compare sellers, and avoid situations where important medical or sourcing details are withheld until it is too late.

3. California is cracking down on third-party pet brokers

AB 519 is another important law taking effect in 2026. It prohibits third-party pet brokers, especially online brokers, from selling cats, puppies, and rabbits bred by others for profit in California. This law is designed to reduce the “puppy mill pipeline” and make it harder for brokers to present mass-bred animals as if they came from small, transparent, responsible sources.

For pet owners, this means extra caution is still wise when shopping online for a new pet. A polished website or social media profile does not always tell the full story. These new restrictions make California’s standards tighter, but buyers should still look for reputable, transparent sources and be careful about any seller unwilling to share veterinary records, health details, or the pet’s true origin.

4. New dog import health certificate requirements

California also updated the rules for dogs entering the state for sale, transfer of ownership, or change of custody. Under SB 312, importers must submit a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection, or CVI, electronically to the California Department of Food and Agriculture. CDFA says this rule took effect January 1, 2026, and that paper submissions are no longer accepted for those covered dog transactions. The submitted certificates are also available to the public upon request.

This law mostly affects sellers, importers, rescues, and others moving dogs into California for transfer, but it still matters to everyday pet owners. If you are adopting or buying a dog that is coming from out of state, this is one more reason to ask questions and confirm documentation is in order. A legitimate seller or transfer organization should understand these requirements and be prepared to comply.

What these new California pet laws mean for Anaheim pet owners

The bigger picture is clear. California is pushing for stronger animal welfare protections, more transparency in pet sales, and more accountability in how pets are brought into homes. For pet owners in Anaheim, these laws are a good reminder to work with trusted veterinarians, ask questions before bringing home a new pet, and stay current on legal and health-related updates that may affect your family.

At CASE Animal Hospital, we believe informed pet owners make better decisions for their animals. Whether you have questions about a new kitten, are evaluating a breeder or rescue, or want guidance on preventive care for a new dog, our team is here to help. As California’s pet laws continue to evolve, we are committed to helping Anaheim pet families stay informed, prepared, and confident in the choices they make for their pets.