Pet&Taxes 2026: 10% VAT on therapeutic food for dogs and cats and pet bonuses
Adelchi Rainone
Since 2021, there has been talk of reducing the VAT on pet food and veterinary services from 22% to 10%, recognizing animal care as an essential good. After almost five years, the Italian tax landscape has finally seen the first changes, but in a partial and selective way.
In this article, we analyze the updates in the 2026 Budget and what they mean for Italian families and dog and cat owners.
10% VAT on therapeutic food for dogs and cats
The VAT reduction to 10% applies to dietary and therapeutic food for pets, used for chronic or acute conditions (kidney, urinary, or gastrointestinal problems).
Conditions for the reduced VAT:
- Mandatory veterinary prescription.
- Only products recognized as therapeutic or dietary.
This measure is a concrete step towards recognizing animal care as a health priority rather than a luxury.
Pet Bonus and ISEE: benefits for families
The 2026 Budget also introduces a state fund for animal welfare dedicated to families with an ISEE below 16,215 euros.
The benefits include:
- Contributions for veterinary expenses.
- Partial coverage for therapeutic food and specific medications.
- Practical reduction of the 22% tax burden on standard food.
This incentive provides concrete support for low-income families and promotes responsible pet ownership.
Standard food and veterinary services: what remains at 22%
Despite pressure from associations like Assalco and ANMVI, standard maintenance food and routine veterinary visits remain subject to the ordinary 22% VAT.
Italy remains one of the European countries with the highest taxation on pet products, equating standard kibble to luxury goods like electronics or jewelry.
Why the VAT reduction is important
Reducing VAT on food and veterinary care brings tangible benefits:
- Public health (One Health): prevention of zoonoses and protection of human health.
- Combating abandonment: lower costs encourage care and responsible ownership.
- Inflation: the 22% tax pressure increases the economic burden for many families.
Summary table: 2026 VAT rates for pet food and veterinary services
| Product / Service Category | VAT Rate | 2026 Legislative Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Therapeutic and Dietary Food | 10% | Only with veterinary prescription |
| Maintenance Food (Standard) | 22% | Still equated to ordinary/luxury goods |
| Veterinary Services | 22% | Reduction to 10% under evaluation |
| Food for Farm Animals | 10% | Rate for feed intended for production |
| Hygiene Products and Accessories | 22% | Shampoos, leashes, beds, and toys |
| ISEE Support (<16,215€) | Exemption / Bonus | State coverage for basic veterinary expenses |
How to get the reduced VAT on therapeutic food
- Request the specific veterinary prescription for therapeutic foods.
- Keep the detailed receipt showing the 10% VAT rate.
- Check your ISEE: if you fall within the protected bracket, inquire at your Municipality or CAF about the available vouchers.
