Pet ownership across Alicante province has risen sharply, with official figures showing 487,587 registered dogs and cats — a 14% increase in just one year. That equates to roughly one pet for every four residents, underlining the growing role animals play in family life.

Dogs remain the clear favourite, with 387,248 registered after 28,467 new additions in 2025. More than 330 breeds are recorded, although mixed-breed dogs form the largest group. Cats, however, have seen the fastest growth, rising by 37.05% with 23,409 new registrations, bringing the total to 96,247.

Alicante city led the way for new registrations last year with 7,924 animals added, followed by Elche with 4,954 and Torrevieja with 2,880. Other municipalities in the top ten include Orihuela, San Vicente del Raspeig, Alcoy, Benidorm, Dénia, Xàbia and La Vila Joiosa.

The registry also includes 1,455 potentially dangerous dogs, 537 reptiles — including a boa constrictor — 158 pet pigs, 18 goats and 8,604 equine animals. All are microchipped and registered under Spanish law, helping authorities safeguard animal welfare and public health.