DEFRA Launches Code of Practice for the Welfare of Cats

Poisonous to cats - anti-freeze

The Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has launced a code of practice for the welfare of cats under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

The main requirements of the code are:

• to provide a suitable environment
• to provide a healthy diet
• is protected from pain, suffering, illness and disease
• ensuring that a cat has the ability and environment to behave normally
• has appropriate company
• has safe transportation equipment
• has it’s own litter tray
• has access to clean water
• to be fed at least once a day
• to include meat products in it’s diet
• to microchip their pet or put a quick-release collar containing their contact details around it’s neck
• to ensure the cat is kept away from potentially harmful substances
• to ensure the cat is kept at a healthy weight
• has opportunity to exercise each day
• you must arrange for your cat’s needs to be met if you are away from home
• you should regularly examine your cat for signs of injury or illness
• your cat should be properly groomed 

Defra said: “Owning and caring for a pet is great fun and very rewarding, but it is also a big responsibility and a long-term financial and caring commitment. You control your pet’s lifestyle; it is your responsibility to make sure that its needs are met, whatever the circumstances.”

They recommend that cats should be provided with a scratching post and toys.  Particularly recommended are ‘puzzle’ feeders.

To read the full document, go here www.defra.gov.uk/corporate/consult/welfare-cats-cop/consultation.pdf