Andrew Gwynne, MP for Denton and Reddish, joined an online event to pledge support for Cats Protection’s campaign for compulsory microchipping of pet cats.
Gwynne joined a virtual drop-in event on 20 October to discuss how the measure could significantly improve feline welfare in the UK.
Cats Protection, the UK’s largest cat charity, is calling for microchipping to become compulsory for pet cats, as it already is for dogs.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Cats Protection hosted its microchipping discussion online to update politicians on its campaign.
Microchipping is a safe, permanent and cost-effective method of identification which ensures cats can be reunited with their owner should they go missing. It means lost cats are not mistaken as strays and taken in by rehoming charities.
Andrew Gwynne said:
“I’m delighted to support Cats Protection’s campaign for compulsory microchipping of pet cats.
“This would be in line with legislation for dogs and would make a real difference.
“Ensuring all pet cats are microchipped would be an important step in improving the welfare of one of the nation’s best-loved pets.”
Jacqui Cuff, Head of Advocacy & Government Relations at Cats Protection, said:
“Microchipping is an essential part of responsible pet ownership, and ensuring it is compulsory for cats would give them the same protection as dogs.
“We were delighted to welcome so many politicians online to discuss this important animal welfare issue, and look forward to working together in the future.”
Cat lovers can back Cats Protection’s campaign for compulsory microchipping of owned cats by signing its petition at www.cats.org.uk/microchippingpetition
