Posted Nov. 12, 2008, 3 a.m. EST
In an attempt to curb animal cruelty in the United Kingdom, the government recently unveiled a proposed code of practice for the welfare of felines which reads like an owner’s manual for cat parents.
The Consultation Code of Practice for the Welfare of Cats has been issued by the U.K.’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) as a 28-page resource for cat owners. Obligations for cat owners would include:
- Providing identification such as a microchip or a collar.
- Having at least one litterbox per cat in different parts of the home.
- Ensuring your cat has places to climb.
- Controlling their diet so they aren’t too fat or too thin.
- Supplying a suitable scratching post.
- Supplying toys and playing with them.
- Protecting your pet from pain, suffering, injury and disease.
The guidelines are set to be published on the DEFRA website and in leaflets to help pet owners understand their responsibilities under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. The regulations are also meant to stress the importance of knowing how to provide proper care for cats.
According to the proposal, a person who fails to comply with the provisions will not be liable for proceedings of any kind. However, those who don’t comply may be fined.