The Government acknowledges the Committee’s concern for the welfare of breeding cats and partially accepts the Committee’s recommendation. The health and welfare of kittens and cats commercially bred for sale as pets is already protected under the LAIA Regulations. Licence holders must meet and maintain the general and specific conditions for selling animals as pets. Local authorities are assisted through statutory guidance to enforce these licensing conditions. In response to concerns about cat breeding conditions, we have commissioned the AWC to conduct a comprehensive and independent review into the welfare implications of feline breeding practices. This report, which is due to be published shortly will provide scientific advice on the welfare impact for the breeding cats and their offspring, including any long- term health and welfare issues associated with their breed characteristics or with poor breeding practices. Further, as part of the PIR of the LAIA Regulations, we requested views from a cohort of sector bodies to seek views on the need to regulate the breeding of cats. Following the PIR report and AWC opinion, the Government will be able to consider whether further steps are needed to protect breeding cats in line with the Committee’s recommendation.