Cats Protection hosted the event as part of its campaign for the Welsh Government to introduce the measure, which is due to become law in England later this year. 

The reception on 6 February – sponsored by Huw Irranca-Davies MS – was an opportunity for MSs to find out more about compulsory microchipping and lend their support to the campaign. 

Cats Protection Advocacy & Government Relations Officer for Wales Daryl Gordon said: “It has been a legal requirement for dogs to be microchipped in the UK since 2016 and from June this year, it will apply to cats too, but only in England. We don’t want to see Wales lag behind in this important feline welfare issue, so we’re urging the Welsh Government to act now to introduce the measure. 

“Microchipping is a vital part of responsible cat ownership, ensuring cats can quickly be returned home if they’re lost and making it easier for rescue charities to help stray cats. 

“We were thrilled to welcome so many MSs to our event, and it’s great to see politicians taking an interest in cat welfare. We’ll continue to work with politicians to push this measure forward.”

Figures from Cats Protection’s Cats and Their Stats report 2023 shows that a quarter of cats in Wales – around 180,000 – are currently not microchipped. 

Huw Irranca-Davies MS said: “Cats Protection does great work across Wales. I’ve been adopted by two wonderful cats, Mischa and Smudge, who were rehomed with me some years ago with the help of the Cats Protection team in Bridgend. So I’m delighted to sponsor this event, to raise awareness of the importance of microchipping cats, and to highlight other great work the charity is doing to promote the welfare of our furry friends.”

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and has helped an average of 157,000 cats and kittens a year over the last five years through its national network of 210 volunteer-run branches and 34 centres.