The Scottish government has clarified that it has no intentions of banning cats following a report by independent experts that labelled them a risk to wildlife in Scotland. First Minister John Swinney responded to growing concerns after the Scottish Animal Welfare Commission revealed that cats are responsible for the deaths of around 700 million birds and other animals in the UK annually.
The report suggested the government explore measures like keeping domestic cats indoors or on leashes to protect vulnerable species, including the Scottish wildcat. Some interpreted this as a potential ban, prompting alarm in a country known for its love of animals.
Swinney firmly stated, “The government’s not going to be banning cats or restricting cats. We’ve no intention of doing so and we will not be doing it.” Cats Protection, the UK’s largest cat charity, dismissed extreme containment measures, advocating for more balanced solutions like keeping cats indoors during certain times to benefit both pets and wildlife.
Alice Palombo from Cats Protection highlighted Scotland’s affection for cats, noting that nearly one in four households own a cat. She emphasised the positive impact of cat companionship on various segments of the population, reinforcing that those who can care for a cat should be able to enjoy the benefits.