Make it illegal to hit a cat and drive off

Recent signers:
Jane Darby and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

Every cat owner knows that their beloved pet is not just an animal but an integral part of their family, much like a dog or any other cherished companion. Every loss, albeit due to an unfortunate road accident, leaves a void that is deeply felt. Sadly, our current laws do not require drivers to stop or report if they accidentally hit a cat, nor are they obligated to take them to a vet.

Each year, thousands of cats are injured or killed on UK's roads, with most incidents going unreported. Unlike dogs, who are protected under the Road Traffic Act 1988, where drivers are required to stop and report accidents, cats do not enjoy the same legal protection. This discrepancy leaves many cat families unaware of the fate of their pets, unable to seek closure or medical help in emergencies.

This petition aims to change this by making it a legal requirement for drivers to stop, report, and transport a cat to a nearby veterinarian if they accidentally hit one. Scanning a cat's microchip at the vet clinic could quickly identify their owners, ensuring they are informed about their pet's situation promptly, and can make necessary decisions.

We seek to create a safer environment for our feline friends and ensure pet owners have the peace of mind knowing that their cats' lives are valued and protected by the law. By aligning the legal requirements for cats with those that exist for dogs, we move a step forward in animal welfare advancement in the UK.

Help us ensure that no cat goes unnoticed or unassisted after a road accident. We urge the UK government to amend the legislation to include protective measures for cats similar to those already in place for dogs. Sign this petition and stand for the protection and rights of our loving pets. Only we can make the change. 

We need 100,000 signatures for the government to reconsider and for us to receive a new government response. It’s been considered before but we have to fight for change to make them reconsider this. Almost every day I see stories of beloved pet cats being run over and families being left heartbroken.

Very grateful for your time. Please share and like and sign away. 

78

Recent signers:
Jane Darby and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

Every cat owner knows that their beloved pet is not just an animal but an integral part of their family, much like a dog or any other cherished companion. Every loss, albeit due to an unfortunate road accident, leaves a void that is deeply felt. Sadly, our current laws do not require drivers to stop or report if they accidentally hit a cat, nor are they obligated to take them to a vet.

Each year, thousands of cats are injured or killed on UK's roads, with most incidents going unreported. Unlike dogs, who are protected under the Road Traffic Act 1988, where drivers are required to stop and report accidents, cats do not enjoy the same legal protection. This discrepancy leaves many cat families unaware of the fate of their pets, unable to seek closure or medical help in emergencies.

This petition aims to change this by making it a legal requirement for drivers to stop, report, and transport a cat to a nearby veterinarian if they accidentally hit one. Scanning a cat's microchip at the vet clinic could quickly identify their owners, ensuring they are informed about their pet's situation promptly, and can make necessary decisions.

We seek to create a safer environment for our feline friends and ensure pet owners have the peace of mind knowing that their cats' lives are valued and protected by the law. By aligning the legal requirements for cats with those that exist for dogs, we move a step forward in animal welfare advancement in the UK.

Help us ensure that no cat goes unnoticed or unassisted after a road accident. We urge the UK government to amend the legislation to include protective measures for cats similar to those already in place for dogs. Sign this petition and stand for the protection and rights of our loving pets. Only we can make the change. 

We need 100,000 signatures for the government to reconsider and for us to receive a new government response. It’s been considered before but we have to fight for change to make them reconsider this. Almost every day I see stories of beloved pet cats being run over and families being left heartbroken.

Very grateful for your time. Please share and like and sign away. 

The Decision Makers

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Petition created on 8 November 2025