Cat lovers urged to back microchipping

Cat lovers are being urged to support planned legislation for microchipping of pet cats to become compulsory.

Cats Protection has called on cat lovers to support the legislation by taking part in a Government consultation on the issue.

The charity has set up an online tool to make it easier for animal lovers to back proposals that would make microchipping a legal requirement for cats – as it already is for dogs.

Cats Protection says compulsory identifcation devices would significantly improve the welfare of cats – making it easier to find the owner if they are lost, injured or killed while outdoors.

The consultation into making microchipping of cats compulsory was announced in December.

The charity’s head of advocacy and government relations, Jacqui Cuff, said: “Pet cats are a much-loved part of the household for millions of people. Over the past year especially, we’ve seen just how important their companionship can be.

“It can be devastating when a cat goes missing, and having a microchip is the best way of ensuring they can be returned home.

"Making microchipping compulsory would ensure it becomes a routine part of responsible pet ownership, enabling lost or injured cats to swiftly be returned to their owner.”

Cat lovers have until February 16, to take part in the consultation.

You can register your support by using Cats Protection’s online tool at www. cats.org.uk/microchippingcampaign