There has been a distressing increase in pregnant cats and litters burdening our rescues in the UK. The problem is triggered by unneutered or unspayed free-roaming cats, only escalating the population, leading to overcrowding in animal shelters and, tragically, to unnecessary euthanasia of healthy animals.

According to the RSPCA, there are around 1.5 million stray cats in the UK, highlighting the severity of the situation. The ability of cats to produce several litters a year further amplifies the problem, as one unspayed female cat and her offspring can produce up to 420,000 kittens in just seven years (Cats Protection). Euthanasia of healthy animals, which should be an absolute last resort, becomes a sad reality for many rescues when resources are strained.

We believe that mandatory neutering and spaying of all domestic free-roaming cats can turn the tide. It will promote healthier cat populations, ease the load on local rescues, and reduce the number of feral and stray cats in our communities.

It is our responsibility, as a society, to intervene now and implement this necessary change. Please, stand alongside us, sign this petition and urge the UK government to enforce mandatory neutering and spaying for all domesticated, free-roaming cats.