Will the Minister outline whether the Welsh Government’s timeline to introduce compulsory microchipping of owned cats is in line with the UK Governments plans to address these needs?
Our Animal Welfare Plan for Wales 2021-26 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 amendments are required to 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.
The timeline to deliver the Animal Welfare Plan is during this term of Government.