Official: Scottish Government ‘Has No Intention’ to Ban Cats

The Scottish government has denied plans to ‘ban cats’ after the Scottish Animal Welfare Commission (SAWC) issued an independent report with recommendations for the government and warned that domestic cats pose a threat to wild birds and mammals. The SAWC advised ministers to consider the pros and cons of proposals to restrict and confine cats in order to conserve wildlife.

The document caused outrage among animal charities. There were also misunderstandings among pet owners. Some media reported that one of the possible recommendations was to ban cats in certain areas to protect wildlife. 

Following the SAWC report, the Scottish government initially stated that it would ‘give full consideration to the recommendations of the Scottish Animal Welfare Commission’. 

However, it was later forced to dismiss any suggestion that a cat ban was possible.

Scottish First Minister John Swinney said on Monday: ‘There is a report prepared by an external organisation that has been submitted to the government.

‘Let me make that clear today: the government is not going to ban or restrict cats.

The SAWC also refuted any suggestion of a cat ban.

While the 56-page document does not mention the word ‘ban’, it does outline some options, which include keeping cats from destroying wildlife populations.

Among its recommendations, the SAWC specifically wants Scottish ministers to pass legislation requiring mandatory microchipping and registration of cats.

It also asks the government to create a campaign promoting responsible cat ownership and care. It did not recommend mandatory neutering of all domestic cats.

The SAWC report also cited Australia's policy where, in some regions, cats are only allowed on land if they are on a leash.

The report states: ‘It is notable that a number of administrations mandate or recommend varying degrees of containment, from keeping cats indoors at all times to allowing them to go out only during the day, or only on a leash, or in a secure outdoor pen. .’

It is noted that while such measures can reduce harmful impacts on wildlife, they have ‘obvious implications for the welfare of cats’ that need to be assessed.