Scotland Clarifies It Has No Plans to Ban Cat Ownership

The Scottish government refuted rumors after a report on feline impact on wildlife led to public concern.

First Minister John Swinney confirmed that the Scottish government will not ban or restrict cat ownership following public concerns sparked by a report from the Scottish Animal Welfare Commission (SAWC).
The SAWC report highlighted the environmental impact of domestic cats, estimating they kill at least 27 million birds and other wildlife annually in the UK, and suggested containment measures like keeping cats indoors or on leashes.
Some recommendations, such as restricting cats in vulnerable areas, were misinterpreted as proposals for an outright ban, leading to widespread online speculation.
The government stated it would review the report's suggestions but emphasized that no laws restricting cat ownership would be implemented.
Cat advocacy groups, including Cats Protection, advised practical solutions like keeping cats indoors during dawn and dusk to balance ecological concerns with feline well-being.