My beautiful cat Sooty was hit by a car and fell into a ditch where he remained until I found him the next day. He was still alive—barely—but the wounds he suffered were too severe, and despite our desperate hopes, he had to be put to sleep. As a pet owner, the heartache is indescribable, and I can't help but wonder: if the driver had stopped and taken him to a veterinary surgery immediately, might he have survived?

This unfortunate experience is not unique to me. Thousands of cats are struck by vehicles each year, and most of them lie suffering by the roadside because there is no legal obligation for drivers to stop. They are companions, family members, and a beloved part of our communities. When a dog is hit, drivers are required by law to report it and seek help—why should it be any different for cats?

There are over 10 million pet cats in the UK, and each one is loved by families who care for them deeply. We owe it to our feline friends to ensure they are treated with the same care and responsibility as any other pet. Making it mandatory for drivers to stop, provide immediate assistance, and transport injured cats to a veterinary clinic could save countless lives. This small change in legislation would not only protect the wellbeing of these animals but also bring peace of mind to pet owners nationwide.

Implementing such a law would involve amending the current Road Traffic Act to include cats alongside dogs. Educational programs could be rolled out to make drivers aware of their responsibilities, and funds could be allocated to assist with the costs of emergency veterinary care.

By signing this petition, you are advocating for compassionate action and responsible driving that respects and safeguards our cherished pets. Let's create a humane and caring society by revising our laws to reflect the importance of every life's worth. Please sign to ensure no more pets needlessly suffer as Sooty did.