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Are exotic pets illegal in Russia?

Partly. Exotic pets are restricted in Russia. 121 kinds of animals banned at home since Sep 2025; others legal.

Law 498-FZ on responsible treatment of animals; Government order 1163-r of 8 May 2025 (in force 1 Sep 2025, replacing Decree 795/2019): 121 kinds of animals banned from flats and houses (big cats, bears, primates, crocodiles, venomous snakes...); Decree 681 of 19 May 2025 sets exceptions.

Source: Order 1163-r (1 Sep 2025)

• Russia is one of 11 countries where exotic pets are banned, and 48 more restrict them.
• Its neighbours: banned in 2 of 14 (Lithuania and Norway).
• In Europe: banned in 5 of 39 countries.

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Other countries that ban exotic pets

SingaporeCosta RicaBoliviaCyprusLithuaniaLuxembourgSouth KoreaNorwayAustraliaBelgiumNetherlandsAll 11 on the map ›

What else is banned in Russia