Mandate Equal Treatment for Cats and Dogs Under UK Traffic Law

The Issue

As a cat owner, I have two much-loved senior cats who enjoy the outdoors. Recently, I was shocked to discover an unfair discrepancy in the UK law that leaves cats unprotected on our roads. Under Section 170 of the Road Traffic Act 1988, drivers are required to stop and report accidents involving specific animals - including dogs - but not cats. This means that there is no legal obligation for drivers to stop or slow down to avoid hitting a cat with their vehicle.

This law not only discriminates against cats but also puts them at risk every day. It's deeply concerning for those of us who love our feline friends as much as dog owners love theirs. Why should our pets be treated any differently under the law?

In 2016 alone, it was estimated that over 230,000 cats were killed on UK roads (Source: Cats Protection). Yet these incidents go unreported due to this loophole in the law.

We urge lawmakers to urgently amend Section 170 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 so that it includes cats among protected animals in traffic accidents. By doing so, we can ensure equal treatment for all pets under UK traffic laws and provide better protection for our beloved feline companions. Thank you so much for your support. 

Please sign this petition and help us bring about this necessary change in legislation.

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The Issue

As a cat owner, I have two much-loved senior cats who enjoy the outdoors. Recently, I was shocked to discover an unfair discrepancy in the UK law that leaves cats unprotected on our roads. Under Section 170 of the Road Traffic Act 1988, drivers are required to stop and report accidents involving specific animals - including dogs - but not cats. This means that there is no legal obligation for drivers to stop or slow down to avoid hitting a cat with their vehicle.

This law not only discriminates against cats but also puts them at risk every day. It's deeply concerning for those of us who love our feline friends as much as dog owners love theirs. Why should our pets be treated any differently under the law?

In 2016 alone, it was estimated that over 230,000 cats were killed on UK roads (Source: Cats Protection). Yet these incidents go unreported due to this loophole in the law.

We urge lawmakers to urgently amend Section 170 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 so that it includes cats among protected animals in traffic accidents. By doing so, we can ensure equal treatment for all pets under UK traffic laws and provide better protection for our beloved feline companions. Thank you so much for your support. 

Please sign this petition and help us bring about this necessary change in legislation.

Petition Updates