Losing a pet is heartbreaking; losing them under preventable circumstances is devastating. My 11-month-old kitten, a vibrant soul full of life, tragically died after being struck by a car. The driver, who completely ignored their responsibility, didn't stop, leaving me devastated, both emotionally and financially. I was left with nearly £20,000 in vet bills and a broken heart, all because someone was driving too fast in a 30 mph zone and chose not to stop.

In the UK, it's illegal to hit and run certain animals, such as dogs, horses, and cattle, but currently, this law does not extend to cats. This gap in the legal system devalues the lives of our feline family members, leaving many pet owners without recourse when such tragedies occur.

According to Cats Protection, there are approximately 10.9 million owned cats in the UK, cherished by families nationwide. These pets often roam outside homes, potentially crossing roads. Without the legal obligation to stop and report, drivers can escape accountability, and pet owners are left to cope with the aftermath alone.

We can change this by amending the Road Traffic Act 1988 to include cats in the list of legally recognised animals when it comes to road incidents. Such a legal change would make it mandatory for drivers to stop and report hitting a cat, ensuring that pet owners have crucial support and the chance at justice. Not only does this help grieving families, but it also encourages responsible driving, making our communities safer for everyone.

Our beloved pets deserve protection, and their loss deserves recognition. By signing this petition, you can help drive legislative change, putting pressure on lawmakers to address this oversight in the Road Traffic Act. Together, we can strive for a safer, more compassionate society for all our animal companions. Please, sign this petition and help us make a difference.