The Global Efforts to Address Dog and Cat Leather Production

The use of dogs and cats in leather production is a controversial and ethically fraught issue that has gained international attention in recent years. While global leather production predominantly relies on bovine, sheep, goat, and pig hides, there is evidence that dog and cat leather is still produced in certain countries. This article explores the issue, current global regulations, and the actions being taken to combat this practice.

What Is Dog and Cat Leather?

Dog and cat leather is made from the skins of these animals, often as a by-product of the meat trade in countries where such consumption is more common. While it is not as widespread as leather from cows or goats, investigative reports from organisations such as PETA have documented instances of dog and cat leather being produced, particularly in China. This leather is sometimes exported under false labels, making it difficult for consumers to determine its origin.

Is It Legal to Use Dogs and Cats for Leather?

The legality of using dogs and cats for leather varies by country:

United States: The Dog and Cat Meat Trade Prohibition Act (2018) explicitly bans the slaughter of these animals for human consumption. Broader efforts, such as the Dog and Cat Fur Prohibition Act, also cover the sale of products derived from these animals¹.
European Union: EU regulations have banned the trade and import of dog and cat fur, as well as leather products made from these animals, since 2008².
China: No nationwide laws prohibit the use of dogs and cats for leather, and reports suggest this practice still occurs in some regions³.

Are Consumers Unknowingly Purchasing Dog and Cat Leather?

One of the most concerning aspects of this issue is that consumers might unknowingly purchase products made from dog and cat leather. In countries where the practice is not banned, leather from these animals can enter global markets without proper labelling. International regulations generally do not require manufacturers to specify the animal species used for leather, except in cases where the species is endangered or protected under laws like the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES)⁴.

What Actions Are Being Taken?

Efforts to address this issue include legislative measures, advocacy campaigns, and increased public awareness:

Legislation: Countries like the US and EU member states have enacted laws to ban the trade and import of dog and cat leather. In South Korea, a new law passed in 2024 aims to phase out the dog meat industry entirely by 2027, reducing the likelihood of these animals being used for leather⁵.
Advocacy: Organisations such as Humane Society International (HSI) and FOUR PAWS have been instrumental in campaigning for change. HSI has reported significant victories in countries like South Korea, while FOUR PAWS has mobilised millions of people worldwide to call for an end to the dog and cat meat trade⁶.
Awareness: Investigations by groups like PETA have revealed the presence of dog and cat leather in international supply chains. Their campaigns encourage consumers to choose synthetic leather alternatives or support brands that are transparent about their sourcing.

How Can Consumers Avoid Dog and Cat Leather?

For consumers concerned about the origin of their leather products, there are steps that can be taken:

Purchase leather goods from brands that explicitly state the origin and species of the leather they use.
Support ethical and sustainable leather alternatives, such as plant-based or synthetic materials.
Avoid products from regions where the use of dog and cat leather has been documented unless the sourcing is clearly disclosed.

Conclusion

The processing of dog and cat leather is virtually identical to that of leather made from cows, sheep, and pigs. The hides of these animals are subjected to tanning, a chemical treatment designed to preserve the skin and make it durable for use in products like furniture, shoes, and clothing. This similarity in processing means that, once treated, it is nearly impossible to distinguish between the types of leather without specific labelling or testing. For readers concerned about the ethical implications of dog or cat leather, it’s worth considering that the production of all animal leather involves slaughter and raises broader questions about animal welfare, environmental impact, and transparency in sourcing.

If this practice is troubling, choosing alternatives like synthetic leather or plant-based materials could be a meaningful way to avoid supporting the leather industry altogether.

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