This petition was submitted during the 2019-2024 parliament

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Petition Make cat theft a specific illegal offence.

A specific offence for cat theft with serious deterrent is needed. An 8 year minimum sentencing and fine of at least £5,000. Cats are family members. Current laws don't reflect this. Dog fighters steal cats to kill them in practice bate. Demand for cats as pets, due to Covid, is fuelling cat theft.

More details

There have been substantial increases in cat theft recently. There is insufficient deterrent. Cat theft is not currently a specific offence. Cats should be seen to have their own offence, to protect them. Current laws and penalties are not enough justice for families and cats that go through this trauma. They are legally allowed to roam freely so we should protect them.

This petition is closed This petition ran for 6 months

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Pet abduction bill agreed by MPs

The Pet Abduction Bill was approved by MPs in the House of Commons on Friday 19 April. It will now go to the House of Lords who also have to agree to it before it becomes law.

What will the bill do?

The Bill would make dog and cat theft a specific criminal offence in England and Northern Ireland. People found guilty of the offence could be given up to five years in prison, a fine, or both.

You can read more about what the Bill would do in this House of Commons Library Research Briefing.

What happens next?

Having passed the House of Commons it will now go to the House of Lords. If the House of Lords make any changes to it, it will go back to the House of Commons who will decide if they agree with the changes.

When both Houses agree the final text of the Bill, it will go to the King to receive Royal Assent. This means it becomes a law and is called an 'Act'.

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