Yesterday, Luke Pollard MP  joined an online event to pledge support for Cats Protection’s campaign for compulsory microchipping of pet cats. Luke pledges support for Cats Protection’s campaign for compulsory microchipping of pet cats. Luke is also looking forward to his one-on-one meeting with Cats Protection next month, to discuss what more can be done for animal welfare in the UK.

The virtual drop-in event on 20 October discussed how the measure could significantly improve feline welfare in the UK. Cats Protection, the UK’s largest cat charity, has been calling for microchipping to become compulsory for pet cats, as it already is for dogs. 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.

Luke said:

“I’m pleased to support Cats Protection’s campaign for compulsory microchipping of pet cats. Ensuring all pet cats are microchipped would be an important step in improving the welfare of one of the nation’s best-loved pets.”

Head of Advocacy & Government Relations Jacqui Cuff 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.”

Cats Protection is the UK’s largest cat charity, helping around 200,000 cats every year through a network of around 230 volunteer-run branches and 37 centres. To find out more about the charity, please visit www.cats.org.uk