Cats Protection’s online petition seeks to encourage cat owners to back the campaign, and put pressure on the government to update the law on air guns. Both Northern Ireland and Scotland already have air gun licensing laws in place, and with a lack of UK-wide regulation, it has been reported that 90% of air gun attacks on cats happen in England and Wales.

Cats Protection’s Advocacy Manager Jacqui Cuff says: “The reality of an air gun attack on a cat is horrific, and around half die as a result of their injuries. Those that survive will endure considerable suffering and may be left with life-long disabilities. Owners can face a great deal of upset and huge vet bills and whole communities can be left deeply worried about attacks of this kind in their neighbourhood.”

Northern Ireland led the way in restricting gun ownership and since 2004, anyone who buys, owns or uses an air weapon in Northern Ireland is now required to have a licence. Scotland adopted similar legislation earlier in 2017.

To watch Cats Protection’s campaign video and sign the petition, or find out more about the campaign, please click here

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