[2026 Updated Edition] Guide to Pet Grants and Subsidies | Comparison of Shibuya Ward and the 23 Wards

Last Updated: August 1, 2026

What kinds of pet-related grants and subsidies are available?

The most common type of pet-related grant or subsidy is a program that helps cover the costs of spaying and neutering cats. Many cities, towns, and villages operate their own programs, and the details vary by municipality. Some municipalities also offer subsidies for microchip implantation or grants to support the adoption of rescue dogs and cats. Since the amounts and eligibility requirements differ significantly from one municipality to another, it’s important to first check the programs available in your area (e.g.,Shibuya Ward Programs Page）。

How much is the subsidy for spaying and neutering in Shibuya Ward?

In Shibuya Ward, the subsidy for neutering and spaying pet cats is capped at5,000 yen, female cats (spayed) are the maximum7,000 yenYou are eligible for this grant (confirmed in July 2026).

Shibuya Ward sets the eligibility criteria for cats, such as their age and health status. For the latest eligibility criteria and application status, please visitShibuya City Official WebsitePlease check here (verified in July 2026).

As of July 2026, based on the information available, Shibuya Ward’s subsidy programs appear to focus primarily on cats, and we were unable to find any information regarding subsidies for dogs. Since these programs are subject to change, dog owners may want to check with the Shibuya Ward office just to be safe.

How much does the grant amount vary across Tokyo's 23 wards?

Even for the same “spay/neuter subsidy,” the amount varies by several thousand yen depending on the municipality. Below are the subsidy amounts for the four wards as of July 2026.

Source:Shibuya Wardinterpoint (interword separation)Setagaya Wardinterpoint (interword separation)Shinjuku Wardinterpoint (interword separation)Nerima WardOfficial websites of each organization; verified in July 2026. Amounts and conditions are subject to change based on the fiscal year’s budget and revisions.

In Setagaya and Shinjuku wards, there are also subsidy programs specifically for “stray cats,” separate from those for pet cats. Since the eligibility criteria and amounts differ from those for pet cats, please check the official websites of each ward separately to see if you qualify.

Shinagawa Ward also has its own subsidy program, but our recent review was unable to confirm the most up-to-date amounts. Since the figures may have changed, we have not included them in this article. For more details,Shinagawa Ward Official WebsitePlease check with the

Minato Ward operates a slightly different program that provides subsidies for the cost of neutering and spaying stray cats (community cats). Maximum amount for males:17,000 yen, Maximum number of females25,000 yenThis is a system that supports community cat initiatives (Source:Minato Ward Official Website(Confirmed in July 2026). Please note that the eligibility criteria differ from those for subsidies for pet cats.

Even if you live in a ward not listed here, many cities, towns, and villages offer similar subsidy programs. If you search for “name of your municipality + spaying/neutering + subsidy,” you’ll usually find the page for the relevant department. If you can’t find it, the quickest way is to call the Public Health Division or the Public Sanitation Division.

The reasons for the differences in the amounts vary by municipality, but it is believed that several factors are at play, including the local cat population, the extent of cooperation with the local veterinary association, and the budget allocation for that fiscal year. It is not a matter of which municipality is “right” or provides “more generous” support; rather, it is best to understand that these systems are designed to suit the specific circumstances of each region.

Is there a subsidy available for microchip implantation costs?

In some cases, local governments or regional veterinary associations provide their own subsidies to cover the cost of microchipping. However, the availability of such subsidies and the amount vary significantly by region, so it is not possible to specify a uniform amount.

A microchip serves as a link between you and your pet in the event of an emergency, such as if your pet gets lost, is caught in a disaster, or is stolen. When traveling abroad, some countries require your pet to have a microchip as a condition of entry. Even within Japan, some local governments offer subsidies to cover the cost of microchipping. If you plan to travel, please check the detailed requirements, such as standards and procedures,quarantine station for animalsPlease check the official website.

Subsidies generally fall into the following three categories: direct subsidies, where you apply to your local government after the microchip is implanted to receive a partial refund; discounts available when the microchip is implanted at the same time as spaying or neutering; and subsidies provided by local veterinary associations as part of limited-time campaigns. Even if you cannot find a direct subsidy program offered by your local municipality, asking your regular veterinary clinic, “Do you have a microchip subsidy campaign?” may lead you to discover initiatives organized by the local veterinary association.

The following article provides a detailed explanation of the microchip implantation procedure and how to care for your pet when traveling abroad.

Essential for pet travel abroad! A Thorough Guide to Microchipping Dogs and Cats

Are there any grant programs that support activities for rescued dogs and cats?

Yes. Nationwide public interest organizations and some local governments offer grant programs for volunteer groups and registered organizations that rescue dogs and cats from public health centers and other facilities and find them new homes.

Support is primarily directed toward organizations and individuals continuing their rescue efforts, rather than the new owners themselves. The scope and amount of support—including medical expenses, vaccination costs, and the costs of holding adoption events—vary significantly depending on the organization or local government. If you are looking for support programs for animal rescue activities, please contact the relevant office in your local government or inquire directly with active rescue organizations. National trends in the number of animals taken in and adoption activities areStatistical Data from the Ministry of the EnvironmentBut it has been made public.

Thanks to this system, rescue organizations can ensure that dogs and cats receive essential initial medical care—such as spaying, neutering, and vaccinations—before placing them with new families. It’s a system that’s worth knowing about for anyone considering adopting a rescue dog or cat.

4 Key Points to Keep in Mind When Applying for Grants

The application process for grants varies depending on the program. Here, we’ve summarized four common pitfalls to watch out for when applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Summary: 3 Key Points for Taking Advantage of Pet Subsidies

So far, we’ve looked at grant and subsidy programs designed to support pet owners. Let’s summarize the key points in three items.

Domestic subsidy programs are one of the systems designed to support you and your pet’s lifestyle. On the other hand, if you plan to travel abroad with your pet, you’ll need to go through entirely different procedures, such as quarantine and preparing the necessary documents. If you’re planning a trip, please also check out the article below.

Learn More About Traveling Abroad with Your Pet

Written by: PetAirJPN Editorial Department (International Pet Transportation Operations Team)

*The information in this article is current as of August 2026 (specific grant amounts were confirmed in July 2026). The details of grants and subsidies are subject to change or termination even during the fiscal year, depending on local government budgets and policies. Be sure to check the official websites of each local government or organization for the latest information before applying.