Rise in number of domestic cats in Brussels

The number of registered cats in Brussels has increased by 10,000 compared to figures for 2024, according to the minister responsible for animal welfare, Bernard Clerfayt (Défi).

In 2025, 75,982 cats were registered in the Brussels region. The most common cat breed in the Belgian capital was the European Shorthair, also commonly known as the “street cat”.

The most popular cat names last year were Simba, Milo, Cookie, Yuki and Leo for males; Luna, Nala, Mia, Mimi and Bella for females.

While the number of felines has risen according to the statistics, Brussels’ dog population remains relatively stable. In 2025, 85,990 were registered. However, some changes were noted among the top five most popular breeds.

Chihuahuas and German Spitz remain the most popular dogs, while the Canis Vulgaris - a mixed-breed dog - takes third place. The Belgian Malinois and the poodle follow in fourth and fifth place.

The French bulldog and the dachshund, which were third and fifth respectively last year, have disappeared from the rankings. 

As for dog names, the most popular for males are Max, Teddy, Pablo, Lucky and Léo. The most common monikers for females are similar to their feline counterparts: Luna, Bella, Nala, Maya and Lola.