The first parliamentary group dedicated specifically to cats, APGOCATS is a group of MPs and peers, supported by two of the UK’s leading animal welfare charities, Cats Protection and Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.

At the meeting, Lord Gardiner congratulated the group on creating a voice for cat welfare at Westminster. He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment for cats and spoke about responsible cat ownership.

As well as a keynote speech from Lord Gardiner, APGOCATS also made their plans for the year ahead. The group will be focussing on animal welfare policies with cats in mind, also tackling human issues like loneliness.

Lord Gardiner said: “Given these animals give so much to us; it is important that we give back to them by ensuring they have the highest welfare standards possible.”

APGOCATS Co-Chair, Steve Reed MP, said: ‘Cats are beloved pets in millions of homes across the UK, yet they are often forgotten in making public policy.”

“Tackling issues like cruelty to cats, genetic problems in breeding and highlighting the benefits cats can bring to their owners now has cross-party support; and it’s to be welcomed that cats now have a unique voice in Parliament through APGOCATS.”

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