Yes — you can include pets in a prenup, and many couples do. It is sometimes called a "pet-nup", and it sets out who would keep a pet if the relationship ended.
In law, pets are property
It may sound unromantic, but in England & Wales pets are legally treated as property, not like children. A court will not decide pet "custody" or contact the way it does for children — so without an agreement, who keeps the pet can become a surprisingly bitter dispute.
What a prenup can say
A prenup can record who owns a pet, who would keep it on separation, and even who covers its costs. Setting this out calmly in advance avoids a painful argument later (see what to include). It is a small clause that can save a lot of heartache — one more reason a prenup is worth considering.
How pets work in a prenup
You can include pets in a prenup — it is sometimes called a "pet-nup". In England & Wales pets are legally treated as property, not like children, so a court will not decide pet "custody" the way it does child arrangements. Without an agreement, who keeps the dog or cat can become a surprisingly bitter dispute. A prenup can record who owns a pet, who would keep it on separation, and even who covers its costs — settling calmly in advance what could otherwise turn painful.
Related questions
Are pets treated as property in a UK divorce?
Yes — there is no pet "custody" in law.
What can a pet-nup cover?
Ownership, who keeps the pet, and who pays its costs (see what to include).
Create your prenuptial agreement online
UK Prenup lets couples in England & Wales create a clear, fair prenuptial agreement online from £199, with your document generated instantly as a PDF. See how it works or get started.
UK Prenup is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. A prenuptial agreement in England & Wales is not automatically binding, and both partners should take independent legal advice before signing.