The cats out the bag...Nation’s favourite famous felines revealed

A new survey has revealed the nation's favourite famous feline as 1970s cartoon character, Garfield.

A poll on 1,000 cat owners found that Garfield was the number one famous feline (18%), beating a whole host of well-known kitties.  Hapless cat Tom of cartoon series 'Tom & Jerry' came in second place (15%), followed by big cat Simba from the 'Lion King' in third (10%). 'Bagpuss' - who celebrated 50 years in February this year - came in fourth place (9%).

The findings are part of research commissioned by Pet Health Club, a preventative health plan for pets which is run by the UK's leading vets and conducted by Censuswide, to highlight the impending cat microchipping law changes in England coming in effect from 10 June 2024.

With less than one month now remaining, it is a crucial deadline for cat owners across England.  From that date, it will be a legal requirement to have cats microchipped from the age of 20 weeks. Owners can be fined up to £500 for failing to comply.

The research also highlighted a curious disparity in cat owner attitudes.  More than a third (35%) believe it's more important to microchip dogs than cats, even though 90% admit they would worry if their cat went missing for more than 24 hours.

Senior veterinary surgeon Amelia Battersby, at Pet Health Club (who undertook the research), commented: "With just one-month to go until the laws change in England, now is the time for cat owners to take action and ensure their beloved pets are protected, while avoiding fines of up to £500."

"As vets, we've been highlighting this change in the law for several months, but it looks like we still have some way to go. It's worrying to see so many people unaware of the new rules, especially as the deadline looms."

Microchipping is a simple, safe, and essential procedure that not only complies with the law but also provides peace of mind for owners.  A one-time procedure that offers a lifetime of benefits, owners who join Pet Health Club get microchipping as part of their benefits.

Pet Health Club vets have prepared a detailed resource hub ahead of the cat microchipping law change, with Q&As, step-by-step guides, and more information, which you can visit by clicking here.

 

The top 5 famous felines according to UK cat owners*... 

  1. Garfield (18%) 

  2. Tom (from Tom & Jerry) (15%) 

  3. Simba (from the Lion King) (10%) 

  4. Bagpuss - (9%) 

  5. Puss in Boots (from Shrek) (8%) 

 

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Amelia has two pieces of advice for owners taking their cats to the vets to get microchipped: 

  • "Cat carriers can be stressful as they are often stored away until it's time for a trip to the vets. It's much better to allow your cat to get used to the carrier by leaving it out in the house so it becomes a normal part of the furniture, " said Amelia. "Covering the carrier during transport is also helpful and should mean that your cat arrives to see me feeling relaxed and comfortable."  

  • "We love using food as it helps form a bond, so bring a bit of something they really like. Some kittens are so busy eating, they don't even notice the microchip going in."

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