On Saturday night, my beloved cat was run over and left for dead in the street. The driver never stopped, never reported the incident, and now a member of my family is fighting for his life. This tragedy has left me heartbroken and determined to make a change.

Every year, countless cats are hit by vehicles and left injured or dead on the roads. These are not merely accidents; they result in genuine loss and suffering. Animals, like humans, experience pain and have the right to be protected under the law. It’s time for us to recognize this and take action to prevent senseless suffering.

In the UK, it is mandatory to report incidents involving dogs, but cats do not receive the same legal protection. According to Cats Protection, an estimated 230,000 cats are run over annually on British roads. Many of these incidents are never reported, leaving pet owners in anguish and without closure.

We propose making it a legal requirement to report any incidents involving cats on the road. This law would not only acknowledge the emotional worth of cats to their owners but also encourage drivers to act responsibly and take accountability for their actions. Such a policy would serve as a deterrent and potentially save thousands of feline lives each year.

Implementing this change involves no heavy lifting—just a simple addition to existing vehicular laws similar to those for dogs. By enacting this legal obligation, we affirm the value of all pets and create a more compassionate society.

Sign this petition to urge lawmakers to make the roads safer for our feline friends and to ensure that no pet owner has to experience the grief of losing a beloved pet due to negligence. Together, we can ensure that cats receive the respect and protection they deserve.