Former Penrith and The Border MP David Maclean, now known as Lord Blencathra, advocates for a ban on cat flaps in efforts to preserve the dwindling population of garden birds in the UK. Expressing concern over the laissez-faire attitude of cat owners towards their pets’ outdoor activities, Lord Blencathra suggests mandatory collars and bells for outdoor cats to mitigate their impact on bird populations.
Citing research indicating that outdoor cats contribute significantly to the decline of garden birds and mammals, Lord Blencathra underscores the necessity of implementing measures to safeguard avian species. He emphasizes that cats equipped with bells kill significantly fewer mammals and birds, as supported by studies published in the journal of Applied Animal Behaviour Science.
In addition to advocating for collars and bells, Lord Blencathra proposes a complete ban on cat flaps, arguing that such measures are imperative to protect vulnerable wildlife. He urges cat owners to take responsibility for their pets’ whereabouts, emphasizing the potential risks cats face when roaming freely outdoors.
Furthermore, Lord Blencathra extends his support to the proposed law aiming to establish new offences of cat and dog abduction in England and Northern Ireland. The Bill seeks to address concerns regarding the theft of pets, recognizing the emotional value of animals and the distress caused by their abduction.
Receiving widespread support in the House of Lords, the Bill aims to impose stricter penalties for pet abduction, including fines and imprisonment for offenders. Environment minister Lord Douglas-Miller expresses the Government’s endorsement of the Bill, reaffirming its commitment to advancing animal welfare legislation.
While the Bill progresses through legislative procedures, Lord Blencathra’s advocacy for stricter measures to protect garden birds resonates with animal welfare organizations and lawmakers alike. As the debate continues, the focus remains on promoting responsible pet ownership and mitigating the impact of outdoor cats on vulnerable wildlife populations.
