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Cats Protection welcomes calls for Scottish microchip law
Cats Protection describes the law as a 'game-changer' for cat welfare in Scotland.
The SAWC recommends compulsory microchipping for cats in Scotland.

Cats Protection has welcomed a report that supports compulsory microchipping and the registration of owned cats in Scotland.

The report, published by the Scottish Animal Welfare Commission (SAWC), suggests that legislation and public education could improve cat welfare in the country.

Microchipping for dogs and equines has been a legal requirement in Scotland since 2016 and 2022 respectively. Due to a lack of a consistent database for microchipped cats, the government has yet to make microchipping a requirement for cat ownership.

In June 2024, legislation in England made it a requirement for all pet cats over the age of 20 weeks to be microchipped. Since this is a devolved matter, the legislation was not progressed to Scotland or Northern Ireland.

Cats Protection, alongside other animal welfare organisations, has continued to advocate for compulsory microchipping to become a legal requirement across the UK.

The SAWC says that its evidence-based report was based on concerns about cat breeding, population management and responsible cat ownership.

The report concluded that compulsory microchipping would have direct benefits if a domestic cat becomes lost, stolen or is found injured. It also suggested that a thorough database would have secondary benefits for shelters and improve understanding of the impact of unneutered pet cats on population numbers.

Cats Protection has welcomed the report’s findings and has urged Scottish ministers to prioritise new legislation. It says that, with Scottish microchipping rates the UK’s second lowest at 72 per cent, mandatory microchipping would reduce the burden of its teams at animal shelters.

Alice Palombo, advocacy officer at Cats Protection, said: “The combination of compulsory microchipping and a centralised registration system will be a game-changer for cat welfare in Scotland. A public education initiative will be crucial in raising awareness among cat owners and the wider public about the importance of responsible pet ownership.

“We hope Scottish ministers do take action by implementing these proposals as soon as possible, which we believe are essential for improving cat welfare.”

Image © Shutterstock

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.