Tag: cats

New opportunity for local groups to lease windfarm sites

Sharing the gains of clean energy

Local communities are to get new opportunities to benefit from renewable energy developments under a pilot scheme announced by the Scottish Government.

Community groups, from South Lanarkshire to the Highlands, will be given the chance to lease one of 10 publicly-owned Forestry Land and Scotland (FLS) sites with windfarms as they approach repowering.

The pilot, which makes changes to the Community Asset Transfer Scheme (CATS), will provide a protected window for local groups to make an asset transfer request to lease FLS sites to extend the operational life of the windfarms.

The new approach, developed with FLS, will help strengthen the community asset transfer process which enables communities to request to buy or lease publicly owned land they feel they could make better use of.

Other changes to CATS will see community groups given: 

  • advance notification of upcoming lease opportunities, so they have time to prepare asset transfer requests before sites go to market 
  • dedicated guidance for repowering projects, including support on financing projects, evaluation and governance  
  • targeted support through the Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES), including help to develop proposals

Energy Secretary Gillian Martin said: “Ownership and control of land is a powerful tool for communities to drive change and can help to develop local economies, provide activities and services, and boost community identity.  

“These new measures will make it easier for groups across Scotland to reap the rewards from renewable energy projects on Forestry Land Scotland sites with the potential to deliver real benefits to a local area.  

“It is yet another way that we are ensuring that communities can benefit from Scotland’s transition to renewable energy and that we are helping provide a just transition to net zero for people across the country.” 

Community Energy Scotland CEO Zoe Holliday said: “We have seen time and time again the transformation impact of land ownership and ownership of energy assets on communities across Scotland. 

“Right now, repowering of private developments represents one of the biggest opportunities to upscale the community energy sector at pace and meet the Scottish Government’s community energy targets; community energy groups are increasingly ambitious but gaining grid access continues to be a challenge, which is why taking on existing sites has so much potential. 

“Today’s announcement is a promising first step by the Scottish Government in starting to open up the public estate for large community energy projects and we look forward to working with them to continue to unlock opportunities for the community energy sector going forward.”

Updates to the Community Asset Transfer Scheme will be implemented by the end of the year, following further engagement with stakeholders, including Community Energy Scotland, community groups and developers. 

These measures will apply to projects with a maximum generation capacity of 50MW, reflecting the current scale of community energy initiatives.

The ten sites approaching the need for repowering are:

Scheme NameIndicative Repowering yearLA
Black Law2032South Lanarkshire
An Suidhe2033Argyll & Bute
Camster2035Highland
Myres Hill2036East Renfrewshire
Stroupster2038Highland
Burn of Whilk2038Highland
Clashindarroch2041Aberdeenshire
A’ Chruach2043Argyll & Bute
Beinn An Tuirc 32047Argyll & Bute
West Benhar2048North Lanarkshire

Petplan partners with Fern Britton and Cats Protection to promote cat rehoming across the UK

Petplan, the UK’s No.1 pet insurer, is proud to collaborate with Fern Britton and Cats Protection to shine a spotlight on the number of cats in need of a forever home, as the numbers of cats in rescue centres across the UK increases.

Following the success of the TV series; Fern Britton: Inside the Vets, where Fern saw first-hand how much of a pet loving nation we are as she goes behind the scenes at The Grove veterinary practice, this initiative highlights the essential work done by rehoming centres to rescue and rehome cats across the country.

Cats Protection currently has around 2,000 cats in their centres. They take in cats for various reasons, including strays, unwanted litters, and changes in owners’ circumstances.

Each year around 3,000 cats are given up to Cats Protection due to behavioural issues. 66% (2,000) will have had difficulties settling into their home often because they aren’t getting along with the existing cat in the household. And 10% (300) are due to urinating or spraying in the home.

During a visit to the Cats Protection North West London Cat Centre, Fern witnessed the dedication of employees and volunteers working tirelessly to improve the lives of cats in rescue centres.

With thousands of cats awaiting new homes, the partnership encourages the public to consider adopting a cat and providing them with a loving forever home as well as offering advice to help reduce cats being given up and keep cats and their owners happy.

All cats rehomed from Cats Protection receive 4 weeks free Petplan insurance to help cover the cost of any vet bills that arise as they settle into their new surroundings.

Fern Britton is delighted to be working on the campaign and said: “As a proud cat mum, I’m thrilled to work alongside Petplan and Cats Protection to bring attention to the wonderful work being done in rescue centres across the UK.

“Every cat deserves a chance at a happy life, and by raising awareness, we hope to inspire more people to open their hearts and homes to these incredible animals.”

Mike Elliott, Cat Welfare & Operations Director for Cats Protection emphasised the importance of this initiative, and said: “We are delighted to have the support of Petplan and Fern Britton in our mission to find loving homes for the cats in our care.

“With so many cats in need, it is crucial to raise awareness and encourage adoption. Preventing cats coming into our care can be aided by following a gradual integration program at the cat’s pace, neutering cats when they are four months old, and ensuring pet cats are microchipped with the contact details kept up to date.”

Jo Maclennan, Director of Trading at Petplan, said: “Petplan is proud to have been working in partnership with Cats Protection for over 20 years and are committed to supporting animal welfare and helping pets get access to the care and love they deserve.

“We provide 4 weeks free insurance for every cat rehomed by Cats Protection to help cover the cost of any vet bills that arise as they settle into their new surroundings.

“We hope together with Fern Britton we can help Cats Protection rehome even more pets this summer”

Cats Protection welcomes call for compulsory microchipping in Scotland

Cats Protection welcomes the Scottish Animal Welfare Commission (SAWC)’s recently published report on responsible ownership and care of domestic cats in Scotland, supporting its microchipping recommendations to improve cat welfare across Scotland.

Advocacy Officer for Cats Protection, Alice Palombo, said: “We are delighted that SAWC has recommended the introduction of legislation for compulsory microchipping and the registration of owned cats in Scotland.

“This would be a vital step in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of pet cats, one that Cats Protection has long campaigned for.

“Animal welfare charities take in thousands of unchipped cats every year, and Scotland has the second lowest microchipping rates in the UK at 72%. This legislation will help reunite lost cats with their owners, reduce the number of unowned and stray cats, while also reducing the burden on our teams.

“Trying to find the owners of unchipped cats often takes up valuable space in our pens – space that could otherwise be used for cats in urgent need.”

The charity further supports the development of a centralised database to simplify the registration process, giving an efficient way for pet owners, veterinary professionals, and animal welfare organisations to search for cats when needed.

In addition to legislative measures, SAWC has recommended that Scottish Ministers implement a public education programme to encourage voluntary microchipping and registration ahead of legal requirements.

Alice continues: “The combination of compulsory microchipping and a centralised registration system will be a game-changer for cat welfare in Scotland.

“A public education initiative will be crucial in raising awareness among cat owners and the wider public about the importance of responsible pet ownership.

“We hope Scottish Ministers do take action by implementing these proposals as soon as possible, which we believe are essential for improving cat welfare.”

As Larry the cat gains a new housemate in Downing Street, a leading vet charity shares its tips on introducing pets to one another 

As the Prime Minister and his family take up residence in Downing Street, the nation’s celebrated chief mouse-catcher, Larry, will no longer be the only kit-on-the-block, as JoJo, Sir Keir Starmer’s cat, moves in.  

Welcoming new furry family members can be an exciting moment for any pet owner, but it’s important that they are introduced to everyone in the household – especially existing pets – in an appropriate and calm manner.  

To help pet owners, national pet charity, PDSA, has shared its top tips on welcoming new and existing pets to one another to ensure a friendly first impression. 

PDSA Vet Nurse, Gemma Renwick, says: “Cats are naturally solitary animals and, like Larry appears to feel at Downing Street, they are usually quite happy being the only pet in the household.

“However, there are some steps you can take should you be looking to introduce a second pet into the family to help create a peaceful and orderly transition.”

  1. Create separate constituencies   

“According to PDSA’s 2024 PAW Report, almost a fifth (17%) of cats that co-habit together don’t always get along, so it’s important to make sure you have prepared the purr-fect environment to create the best opportunity for both furry family members to stay happy and healthy. Setting up separate safe spaces (ideally in a quiet room) for each pet will provide each of them with a private place they can call their own and hide, should there be any disruptions in household politics.  

“As well as each furry family member having their own safe place, make sure there are options for both of them to relax around the house without getting in each other’s way. Cats like to be up high so tiered cat trees or wall-mounted cat shelves provide an ideal escape route for your newly introduced puss and will help them feel safer settling into their home as they’ll be able to survey what’s going on in their party. 

“In general, cats prefer to eat on their own and well away from their toileting area, so consider setting up separate food and water stations, well away from litter trays. Make sure they’re out of the reach of other pets to help stop them from becoming stressed. Consider a microchip feeder to prevent them from stealing each other’s food! Each cat will need a litter tray each plus one extra, again in separate areas of the house. If you are introducing a dog to an existing cat household, make sure you clean up your cat’s litter tray as soon as possible and that it’s out of your pup’s way. 

  1. Scent swapping 

“In an ideal world, new and existing pets should be given a few days to get used to each other’s scent before they meet. If you’re bringing your pet home from a rescue centre or breeder, you may be able to take blankets with your current pet’s scent on. This can be introduced to your new pet so that they can familiarise themselves with your current pet’s smell before they arrive at their new home.   

“Another way of ‘scent swapping’ is to collect your pet’s scent on a new cloth and place this in your new furry family member’s bed. To do this, take a clean, soft cloth and gently rub it around your cat’s cheeks via their scent glands, or under your dog’s armpits. This simple trick will help each pet get used to each other before they meet – a bit like having a phone call with someone before you greet them face-to-face.   

  1. Building a coalition 

“When they first come home, if possible, keep both pets in separate safe spaces by using a baby gate, where each furry member of the household can have their own space to explore freely and start to familiarise themselves with their surroundings.  

“Once your new furry family member is well-adjusted, allow your pets to become aware of each other from their individual safe spots. Use food to reward them for calm behaviour, along with plenty of fuss and praise. If you are using food as a reward, make sure that both pets receive equal amounts and that they’re not close together when eating – that way they won’t be worried about the other stealing their treats! Give them both time to adjust and settle – the time this takes can vary and will be based on the individual pets. You should notice them gradually getting used to each other in a calm and comfortable manner. 

“Once your pets seem happy in each other’s company, you could remove the barrier while continuing to maintain safe spaces they can retreat to if needed. If you are introducing a dog and cat, it’s best to put your dog on a lead at first and ensure your cat has escape routes. Keep the area calm, avoiding unnecessary noise such as the TV/radio. 

“Although your pets may seem comfortable with one another, remember to always keep an eye on their body language to make sure they are continuing to get along.” 

For more information on introducing cats into households with existing pets, visit: www.pdsa.org.uk/StressInCats  

Lothian MSP supports Hugo’s Law to give cats the same protection as dogs and other animals

Scottish Conservative & Unionist MSP Miles Briggs is supporting calls for ‘Hugo’s Law’ to pass in the Scottish Parliament, making it law that drivers must contact a vet, the police and the RSPCA in the event that they hit a cat.

The calls come after Hugo, a much-loved cat that stalked the streets of Edinburgh’s West End, sadly died last month after being struck by a car. Those who loved Hugo are now leading the calls for a change in the law.

At present, motorists are obliged to inform the authorities if they hit dogs, horses, sheep, pigs, foxes, badgers, mules, cows and goats with their vehicle, under a section of the Road Traffic Act 1988, which applies to England, Scotland and Wales. A vet must also be contacted to look over the animals and treat them for injuries, however this section does not apply to cats.

Mr. Briggs has already written to the Scottish Government requesting a meeting so that discussions around the law change can begin.

Lothian MSP Miles Briggs said: “I wholeheartedly support the campaign for ‘Hugo’s Law’ to change the law on stopping for animals to include cats.

“A cat’s life is worth no less than a dog’s and a change in the law would increase the chances of survival for cats who are struck by vehicles.

“It is imperative we include cats so that more people are not left bereft like Hugo’s family.

“A change in the law would bring comfort to Hugo’s family and other cat owners who will be safe in the knowledge that tragic incidents such as Hugo’s passing can be avoided, and that is why I am seeking a meeting with government officials to push this through”. 

Letters: Give a cat a new home

Dear Letters Editor,

I am writing to encourage your readers to consider a moggy when thinking about giving a cat a new home.

Our latest survey revealed 38% of cats acquired in 2022 (or 600,000 cats) were pedigrees, such as Ragdolls or Scottish Folds, while 47% (or 750,000 cats) were moggies (cats produced through non-selective breeding such as a domestic short or longhair). This is the narrowest gap that we have seen between pedigrees and moggies in memory.

As a result, Cats Protection is celebrating moggies this spring and encouraging would-be owners to look past a breed or current social media led trends. Moggies have just as much personality and affection to share as pedigrees, they also tend to be less expensive both at the outset and over the course of their lifetime.

There are thousands of moggies needing new homes across Cats Protection’s network of branches and centres who are all vet-checked, microchipped, neutered if old enough, and arrive in their new homes with four weeks’ free insurance.

Further details of the benefits of welcoming a moggy into your life can be found at www.cats.org.uk/morethanjustamoggy; we also have lots of good advice about acquiring a pedigree cat including some potential pitfalls at www.cats.org.uk/pedigrees.

Yours faithfully

Dr Kit Sturgess

Chair of Trustees, Cats Protection

Cat lovers urged to support compulsory microchipping

Cats Protection has urged Scottish pet lovers to join its campaign for compulsory microchipping of pet cats – a measure which is already in place for dogs.

The charity says compulsory microchipping would be a major step forward in feline welfare in Scotland, yet there are currently no plans for it to be introduced. This is in contrast with England, where the measure is due to become law.

Scottish animal lovers are now being asked to join the charity’s campaign by using an online form on its website to contact their MSP to ask they support the move.

Cats Protection’s Advocacy & Government Relations Officer for Scotland Alice Palombo said: “Microchipping is an important part of responsible pet ownership and is already compulsory for dogs in Scotland. It is also due to become compulsory for pet cats in England, so we’re keen to make sure cats in Scotland are not left behind.

“Compulsory microchipping of pet cats would ensure more cats can be reunited with their owners if they are lost or missing. It also helps to identify cats which have sadly died in road accidents, and helps to reduce the pressure on animal charities which may find it impossible to trace the owner of an un-microchipped stray or lost cat, despite their best efforts.

“We’re asking for the help of cat lovers in Scotland to send a message to MSPs that cats deserve the same level of protection as their canine counterparts.”

Animal lovers can fill in a simple form on Cats Protection’s website which will send an email to their local MSP telling them to support compulsory microchipping of pet cats.

To find out more, please visit: www.cats.org.uk/scot-chipping

Expert guide to feeding fussy felines

Pet behaviourist shares their top five tips for getting your furry friend eating again

Cats have gained a bit of a reputation for being fussy, particularly when it comes to food, but sometimes their eating habits (or lack thereof)  can be a sign of something bigger. Cats can be fussy eaters at the best of times but sometimes their unwillingness can be a sign of something bigger.

Hunting activity is ingrained in a cat’s DNA and when we take this activity away by simply providing food on a plate, it can have a knock-on impact.

So, to get your fussy feline eating enthusiastically again, Bella & Duke’s  pet behaviourist Caroline Spencer shares her top tips:

  1. Understand your cat’s eating habits

Cats are naturally suspicious animals and new food can cause anxiety initially.

Keep them interested by incorporating play, especially chasing or hunting activities, before mealtime.

Cats also prefer their food at the same temperature as “prey” would be in the wild. Before placing their food down on a feeding board or plate  pop your cat’s meal into a bowl and place in warm water to replicate this.

  1. Find the right feeding location

Cats tend to be private creatures who like the quiet and generally don’t like to be watched while eating.

Try to make sure the room they eat in is peaceful and free of activity during mealtime. No children running around, no radio playing or dishwasher running.

  1. Add tasty additions

Adding a favourite natural, dehydrated treat like our Supreme Sprats or a little bit of beaten raw egg to their food will encourage many fussy cats to get stuck in. 

You could also sprinkle your fussy cat’s meal with antler powder, drizzle some bone broth over the top or even add a small amount of tinned sardines in spring water to enhance the aroma.

  1. Work out the best time to feed

Cats are mostly active at dawn and dusk and eat best in the early morning or late at night.

Have you noticed your cat has an increased amount of energy just about the time you settle down for the evening? Give them a meal after this expenditure of energy and also put food out around dawn.

  1. Find the right feeding surface

Many will be surprised to hear that cats don’t like the smell of plastic or their whiskers touching the side of a bowl while they’re trying to eat.

Try serving their food on a wooden board, glass or ceramic plate instead. Make sure it’s spotlessly clean too – cats don’t like to smell old food while they eat.

Caroline Spencer, Pet Behaviourist at Bella & Duke added; “Cats are notorious for being independent pets and that doesn’t stop when it comes to their food.

“Feeding a picky eater can be frustrating when they turn their nose up at mealtime, try to understand what might be affecting this, it could just be something as simple as the placement of where the food is put.”

Fat Cats: One in three cats ch-eating on their pet parents

  • Over two million1 kitties are eating away from home with potentially devastating effects on their health
  • One in six pet parents (14 per cent) have put their cat on a diet because they get fed seconds – and thirds! – by their neighbours
  • Cat behaviourist, Nicky Trevorrow, shares her tips for ensuring a healthy and happy cat

Cats are courting more than just other people’s affections according to a new survey which found that nearly a third of cat caregivers (30 per cent) suspect their neighbours of feeding their beloved kitty titbits, treats and even full meals2.

Makers of proper food for pets Lily’s Kitchen, which commissioned the poll, is urging people to serve up ‘tough love’ instead. With findings showing that one in six owners (16 per cent) believe their cat is overweight because of being fed by well-meaning neighbours, it highlights that ‘dining out’ can have an impact on our cats’ health.

14 per cent of those surveyed have even admitted to putting their feline friend on a diet as a result.

What is more, it appears our cats are regularly playing away, with nearly two-thirds of pet parents (64 per cent) saying their cat pays visits to ‘other humans’. Admitting their moggies stand them up, staying out all hours of the day and night, a third (34 per cent) say their outings last five or more hours every day.

But our cats’ intrepid nature can end up with more serious consequences than just missing your kitty. Highlighting the impact of treating someone else’s pet, 34 per cent said their cat ‘eating out’ was a real source of stress for them, while 17 per cent have fallen out with neighbours for feeding their feline without permission.

And proving just how damaging this can be, a worrying 19 per cent of owners questioned describe their cat as overweight.

Gaining some extra rolls isn’t the only cause for concern when it comes to feeding cats you don’t know. It’s not uncommon for cats to have allergies or other special dietary requirements related to medical conditions, so falling for the charms of a wide-eyed kitty could lead to more than just disgruntled neighbours.

However, despite pet parents feeling put out by neighbours feeding their own cat, and proving how hard it can be to ignore feline charm, 32 per cent of the same people admitted they themselves have fed local cats, with a whopping 73 per cent feeding them daily or weekly.

Nicky Trevorrow, Cats Protection’s Behaviour Manager, says: “Obesity is a significant welfare issue for our feline friends that can affect their health and behaviour. All cat caregivers should ensure that they feed a good quality, complete food and avoid feeding too many titbits.

It’s important for caregivers to keep an eye on their cat’s weight. You should be able to feel your cat’s ribs easily when you stroke their body lightly and you should clearly see a waistline when you look at them from above.

“If you are in any doubt, speak to a veterinary professional about your cat’s weight and how best to reduce it if necessary. However, even the most diligent owners can still face difficulties with their majestic moggy and their weight, if their cat has a penchant for scoping out food at the neighbour’s house.

“If a cat spends a lot of time at the neighbour’s house, it is important to consider why that may be. In a lot of instances it can be that they get extra food and treats there – this, of course, is very enticing and reinforces the cat’s inclination to visit. 

“However, many cats will avoid their homes if there are a lot of stressors present, for example, non-socially bonded cats, toddlers or other stressors. It is therefore always worth evaluating your home set-up to see if it is actively encouraging your cat to go seeking other homes and additional meals.

“For all cats, but especially indoor-only cats, it is important to provide them with plenty of play and enrichment to keep them active and burning off calories. A few short play sessions, with a good fishing rod toy, spread throughout the day can help with this.”

How much a cat needs to eat depends on a variety of factors, but as a guide, on average, a healthy and active outdoor adult cat needs around 275 calories a day3. And it doesn’t take much over-feeding for them to start piling on the pounds.

Feeding your moggy proper, nutritious food could even stop them from popping out for sneaky seconds or hunting for ‘takeaways’. According to a recent study by the University of Exeter4, feeding a delicious meal rich in meat protein, such as Lily’s Kitchen recipes, resulted in a 36% reduction in hunting.

Samantha Crossley, Marketing Director at Lily’s Kitchen, comments: “As much as we love our cats, they are rebels whose affections often spread beyond their owners – and their food bowls. Outdoor cats can roam and do as they please, which can often mean neighbours find themselves at the mercy of a loveable kitty begging them for scraps; when they turn on the charm, it’s hard to resist!

“At Lily’s Kitchen we know the importance of good nutrition, and that means not only proper food and complete recipes, but the right quantity of that food. Lots of owners will know all too well that cats can very easily become overweight, and although the extra tummy rolls might mean an extra cuddly hug, it can have a detrimental effect on their overall health.

“As a pet parent, choosing proper food that your cat goes wild for may wellreduce the chance of them dining out, or prowling for a takeaway and piling on the pounds. Exeter University’s recent study found that feeding cats food containing proper meat has a number of benefits including a reduction in hunting behaviours… it may leave them satisfied enough to reduce their visits to no. 31 as well!”

You can find a Guide to Healthy Cat Weight on the Lily’s Kitchen website.

Keep cats cool as temperatures soar, charity warns

Extreme temperatures and unprotected exposure to the sun can be dangerous to pets, the UK’s leading cat charity has warned as the country experiences scorching hot weather.

Cats Protection is keen to remind cat owners of the health risks of sun exposure, such as dehydration, exhaustion and sunburn. In the worst cases, sun-related cancer can be a problem for cats, especially on their ears and noses.

The charity has issued warm weather advice for cat owners:

  • Keep pet cats indoors when the sun is at its hottest, typically between 10am and 3pm.
  • Speak to a vet about suitable sunscreen for pet cats.
  • Provide opportunities for shade outdoors, such as cat hides, large cardboard boxes, or plant plots placed close together.
  • There is a risk of your cat becoming dehydrated in the heat, so always provide an outdoor water source.
  • To stop cats feeling overheated, place a plastic bottle with frozen water inside a towel and place it in an area that the cat frequently visits.

Sarah Elliott, Central Veterinary Officer for Cats Protection, said: “White and pale-coloured cats don’t have a pigment called melanin in their skin, which is what protects humans from sunlight. This can leave them vulnerable to sun damage – usually around the ears.

“Over time, the damage caused by the sun’s ultraviolet rays can increase the risk of developing skin damage and cancer. Cats with unpigmented noses or ears are also much more susceptible to sun damage and require additional sun protection.”

For advice to avoid sunburn, download Cats Protection’s guidance: https://www.cats.org.uk/media/10837/vet_7701-sunburn-information-sheet-web.pdf 

Dehydration is a particular risk during warm weather. Cats need to remain well hydrated to maintain a normal body temperature, remove waste products and maintain proper circulation, and it is important to ensure that fresh water is always available.

To check if your cat is at risk of dehydration, try some of these tips:

  • Look at their gums. If they are tacky, this may be a first sign of dehydration.
  • Check their eyes. Severely sunken, dry eyes could indicate significant dehydration.
  • Feel their paws. If the paws feel cool or cold, this could be a sign of dehydration
  • Test skin elasticity. In a well-hydrated cat, the skin should snap back into place immediately. If it doesn’t, it could well be dehydrated.

Cats Protection’s tips on keeping cats safe in warm weather can be found at www.cats.org.uk/cats-and-warm-weather