Overview

This bill aims to improve the welfare of cats in commercial breeding establishments in England and Wales by introducing a licensing system, setting standards for cat care, and providing for inspections and penalties for non-compliance.

Description

The Welfare of Cats Bill introduces a licensing scheme for commercial cat breeding establishments in England and Wales. Local authorities will grant licenses, subject to inspections by veterinary professionals and council officers.

Licensing Conditions

Licenses will be conditional upon meeting specific standards, including suitable accommodation, adequate food and water, disease prevention, emergency preparedness, and responsible transportation. The bill also restricts breeding practices, specifying that queens (female cats) should not be mated before one year of age, have more than one litter per year, or more than three litters in their lifetime. Kittens must be at least 56 days old before sale. Accurate record-keeping and socialization programs are also mandatory.

Inspections and Enforcement

Local authorities can inspect licensed premises and, with a warrant from a magistrates' court, premises suspected of illegal breeding activities. Obstruction of inspections is an offense. Penalties for offenses range from fines to imprisonment and include license cancellation and disqualification from breeding or owning cats.

Appeals

Individuals can appeal license refusals or conditions to a magistrates' court.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't provide specific figures for government spending. However, it will likely incur costs related to licensing administration, inspections, and enforcement by local authorities. The costs of inspections will be met by the local authorities involved. Local authorities can also charge fees for applications and inspections in order to recoup reasonable costs.

Groups Affected

• Commercial Cat Breeders: Will be required to obtain licenses and comply with stringent welfare standards, potentially increasing their operational costs. Non-compliance could lead to penalties.
• Local Authorities: Will be responsible for administering the licensing scheme, conducting inspections, and enforcing the law. This will require additional resources and staffing.
• Veterinary Professionals: May be involved in inspections of breeding establishments.
• Cats: The bill aims to improve their welfare in commercial breeding settings.
• Buyers of kittens: The requirement that kittens are at least 56 days old before sale may affect availability and potentially increase prices.

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