I have faced heart-wrenching moments in the past year, with two of my beloved cats falling victim to vehicles on the roads. Today, on the 25th of October, one of my cherished pets was seriously injured. With a broken back and in immense pain, it's a nightmare I wouldn't wish upon anyone. Yet, most disturbingly, the driver drove away, unconcerned about the suffering and the life-changing impact such a hit can have on pet owners.

In Scotland, it is a legal requirement for drivers to stop if they hit a dog. However, cats are not afforded the same legal protection. It seems inconceivable that a distinction is made between these beloved household pets. Why is the life and well-being of a cat any less significant than that of a dog? Without a legal mandate, many drivers inconsiderately ignore the trauma they cause to both the animals and their owners, leaving them distraught, often with their lives irreparably changed.

According to a report by The Cat Welfare Association, thousands of cats are injured or killed on UK roads each year, with a significant number of these accidents occurring in places like Scotland. The absence of a legal obligation to stop and report hitting a cat only exacerbates the suffering of these animals and their owners.

By making it a legal requirement for individuals to stop if they hit a cat, and report the accident, we can ensure that injured animals receive the urgent care they need, potentially saving their lives and easing the emotional distress on their owners. Encouraging responsible driving helps create safer communities and shows our compassion for all creatures that coexist with us.

I urge the legislative powers in Scotland to consider this change. By taking this step towards strengthening animal welfare laws, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of cats and their owners. Let's ensure every voice is heard and every life is valued. Please sign this petition to help protect our feline friends.

Please help by signing, sharing and donating if you can. I will work my absolute hardest to get this law changed, and I won’t stop until it is, at the very least, considered. We all want justice for our precious babies, please help today.