My heart shattered into a million pieces when my beloved cat was recently knocked over and killed by a driver who did not even stop to check on her. She was not just a pet; she was family, a constant source of joy, and her sudden, unjust loss leaves a void that cannot be filled.

Cats, like all animals, deserve respect and consideration when they fall victim to road accidents. Currently, when a vehicle hits a dog, the law often requires drivers to stop and report the incident, but such measures are not always applicable to cats. This disparity in treatment is unfair and needs urgent redress.

In the UK alone, it is estimated that over 230,000 cats are hit by cars each year, yet very few are afforded the respect of being checked on or reported when accidents occur. These incidents are not mere numbers; each represents a family in mourning, a community losing a beloved member.

We call for the implementation of new laws that require drivers to stop and report when they hit a cat, mirroring the current regulations in place for dogs. This would ensure that injured or deceased cats are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve, allowing their families to find closure and, for injured cats, a chance at life-saving intervention.

By signing this petition, you are advocating for equal rights and respect for all animals, ensuring that no more cats have to suffer in silence. Join us in urging lawmakers to take immediate action to protect our feline companions on the road.