In a surprising move, it has been revealed that a European country is considering prohibiting the ownership of domestic cats in certain areas to reduce their impact on biodiversity and protect wild fauna. This initiative arises from a report prepared by the Scottish Animal Welfare Commission (SAWC).
Domestic cats hunt 57 million mammals, 27 million birds, and 5 million reptiles and amphibians annually in the United Kingdom, which clearly poses a risk to the ecosystem.
Analysis and recommendations from animal welfare experts
The Scottish Animal Welfare Commission (SAWC), a group of independent experts advising the government on animal welfare issues, has recommended in Scotland the prohibition of domestic cats in some areas to preserve wildlife.
Currently, the Scottish National Party is evaluating the recommendations and analyzing the consequences of making this decision, as reported by the media outlet Paris Match.
The behavior of cats can lead to a decrease in populations of small vertebrates, disrupting the natural balance of ecosystems.
The report highlights that the problem is much more severe in rural areas and habitats where vulnerable species reside. For this reason, the Scottish government is considering the possibility of prohibiting cat ownership in certain areas.
Alternatives to the cat ban
Although implementing this decision would be extreme, there are other alternatives to address the issue. One proposal suggests that new urban developments in rural areas include restrictions on cat ownership as a condition.
On the other hand, it has been proposed that cats should only be allowed to live indoors or go outside under strict conditions, a measure already in place in countries like Australia.
Given that cats have a strong presence in society in Scotland, the proposal has sparked opposition in many sectors, particularly among animal rights advocacy organizations.
Many argued that these animals provide companionship to the elderly, children learning, and individuals living alone, as well as emotional support to those facing health issues.
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