Taking the Fight for Cats to the Top

Taking the Fight for Cats to the Top

In recent years, there has been an increased focus on the dangers cats face on our roads with RTA's now the leading cause of cat death in the UK.

Tragically, some people think current laws provide sufficient protection for these beloved animals, but we are dedicated to changing this perception and advocate for legislation that requires drivers to stop and report any incidents involving cats they hit. As caring members of society, we must recognise the gravity of this issue and take proactive steps to safeguard our feline friends.

Legislation mandating drivers to report accidents involving cats will significantly enhance the overall wellbeing of these animals. One immediate impact would be a reduction in the number of neglected and injured cats on the streets, such as those we have all seen being collected by local rescue groups with both old and new injuries from road accidents, such as broken legs or fractured pelvis'. Additionally, a culture valuing compassion and responsibility would emerge, encouraging individuals to think critically about their role in protecting living beings. Many drivers already do do the right thing automatically, others unfortunately need the threat of prosecution or fines to be encouraged to do what should come naturally to us all. Either way, a change in the law, like it has for dogs, would cause people to realise that the Government values cats as a species that deserves help if injured by leading by example. It would also highlight that it acknowledges that cats are an integral part of peoples families and it supports their need to know all has been done should their cat fall into trouble, as well as the important need for closure.

We compiled a letter stating we want a commitment from the Government to investigate legislation change for cats which was signed by numerous, some very well known, animal organisations. In July we, along with Cat Eccles MP, visited Downing Street and personally hand delivered this letter.

''We believe cats deserve to be helped should they sadly fall victim to the road. With dogs, drivers must stop and report incidents when they have hit a dog. With cats, it's perfectly legal to drive on leaving them scared, alone, in pain, or worse, roadside. Asking the Government introduce a law for cats that is similar to that already in place for dogs is simply asking that a bit of decency is legislated for. Should drivers be required to stop and report it if they hit a cat when driving it will minimise suffering, preserve life and give grieving owners the closure they need. There are an estimated 12.5 million cats in the UK, many of which are very much loved and live in homes with people that consider them family members. It is not unreasonable for those people to expect all is done to help their beloved companion should the worst sadly happen, and it's not unreasonable to demand an end to the suffering cats are subjected to when they are left for hours, sometimes days, in crippling pain because no one cared enough to simply stop the car and help.''

You can find the full letter and signee's here https://www.catsmatter.org/single-post/advocating-for-feline-road-safety-and-better-protections-for-cats-on-roads