Written question WQ84733
- Asked by
- Jane DoddsLib Dem
- To be answered by
- Minister for Rural Affairs and North Wales, and Trefnydd
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 7 days
Question
Will the Minister outline the Welsh Government’s timeline to extending compulsory microchipping to include owned cats?
Answer
Answered by Minister for Rural Affairs and North Wales, and Trefnydd
Our Animal Welfare Plan for Wales (AWPW) includes a commitment to consider extending compulsory microchipping to include kittens and cats in Wales. Proposals in this area will draw upon research published in 2021 which was joint-funded with other GB administrations. Following completion of our analysis of the research, we will consider whether any amendments are required on the current microchipping regulations for dogs and possible new measures for kittens and cats. Any proposed changes would be subject to a full public consultation process.
We cannot commit to a specific timeline at this point but the AWPW covers the period from 2021-26.
We are aware England are considering their approach on this policy issue and, similar to previous policy development, my officials will endeavour to align our policies wherever possible to ensure enforcement requirements are not compromised, especially on the borders between England and Wales.