When I was young, my beloved cat Sooty was tragically hit by a van. The driver callously continued driving, leaving my furry friend behind, wounded and alone. I found Sooty shortly after, and he took his last breath cradled in my arms. This heartbreaking moment has forever left a deep emotional scar on me.

Cats are cherished members of millions of families across the UK, offering companionship, comfort, and unconditional love. They are not just pets; they are family. Yet, despite their importance in our lives, there is no legal obligation for drivers who collide with them to stop and report the incident. This legal loophole results in countless cats facing unnecessary suffering or tragic ends due to hit-and-run incidents.

In comparison, the law in the UK obliges drivers to stop and report when they hit animals such as dogs, horses, cattle, and donkey. It is entirely reasonable that our beloved cats deserve the same protection. NJW Animal Welfare has reported staggering numbers of cat fatalities due to traffic and many of these incidents could have been prevented if immediate action were taken.

This petition proposes a change in legislation to ensure that cats receive equal legislative protection as other animals, making it mandatory for drivers to stop and report an accident involving a cat. This would enable timely rescue and medical attention, potentially saving thousands of feline lives each year.

Your support could make a huge difference. By signing this petition, we can demand the UK government to amend the Road Traffic Act to include cats in the list of animals drivers must report collisions with. It's time we take a stand and ensure no more families have to share in the grief of losing a cat to a hit-and-run.

Please, sign this petition today to bring about change and protect our feline friends from such tragic incidents. Every signature brings us one step closer to justice for Sooty and countless others.