Purrfect! Scotland Has No Plans to Ban Cats, Leader Says

The Scottish Animal Welfare Commission (SAWC) urged ministers to explore introducing containment zones -- within which there would be restrictions on cats -- to protect wildlife in "vulnerable areas". (AFP)
The Scottish Animal Welfare Commission (SAWC) urged ministers to explore introducing containment zones -- within which there would be restrictions on cats -- to protect wildlife in "vulnerable areas". (AFP)
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Purrfect! Scotland Has No Plans to Ban Cats, Leader Says

The Scottish Animal Welfare Commission (SAWC) urged ministers to explore introducing containment zones -- within which there would be restrictions on cats -- to protect wildlife in "vulnerable areas". (AFP)
The Scottish Animal Welfare Commission (SAWC) urged ministers to explore introducing containment zones -- within which there would be restrictions on cats -- to protect wildlife in "vulnerable areas". (AFP)

Scotland is not planning to ban cats, the leader of the devolved government insisted Monday, after welfare experts gave ministers pause for thought in a new report.

The Scottish Animal Welfare Commission (SAWC) urged ministers to explore introducing containment zones -- within which there would be restrictions on cats -- to protect wildlife in "vulnerable areas".

Such a plan could lead to rules requiring cats to be kept indoors and potentially barring them in "new housing developments in rural areas" near "conservation-sensitive areas", the commission noted in a new report.

But before any fur could fly, Scottish leader John Swinney said Monday that his ministers were not poised to impose a ban, or restrictions, on cats.

"There's a report being produced by an external organization which has come in to the government for consideration," he said.

"Let me just clear this up today -- the government's not going to be banning cats or restricting cats. We've no intention of doing so and we will not be doing it."

In the report, the experts noted that evidence suggests all cats "can have a significant impact on wildlife populations, through predation and competition for resources with vulnerable wildcat populations".

"Some countries already require cats to be contained all the time or seasonally to protect wildlife populations," it said.

"This may be an option to reduce the welfare impacts of domestic cats on wildlife."

The report recommended the Scottish government, which has responsibility for a host of domestic policy areas in Scotland, to instruct its agency NatureScot to produce a report on containment areas.



Ramadan Season in Jeddah : ‘Year of Handcrafts’ Boosts Business Growth

The number of visitors surpassed one million during the first week of the season's launch (SPA)
The number of visitors surpassed one million during the first week of the season's launch (SPA)
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Ramadan Season in Jeddah : ‘Year of Handcrafts’ Boosts Business Growth

The number of visitors surpassed one million during the first week of the season's launch (SPA)
The number of visitors surpassed one million during the first week of the season's launch (SPA)

The historic Jeddah area (western Saudi Arabia) blends authentic heritage with the modernity of the city during Ramadan nights, offering visitors a unique experience to explore traditional Ramadan atmospheres.
Visitors are immersed in unforgettable moments of charm and inspiration in this historic area, which has transformed into a vibrant living artwork and a tourist destination for locals, residents, and visitors from around the world.
Organized by the Ministry of Culture, Ramadan Season is being celebrated across cities nationwide, highlighting Saudi traditions through cultural and community events.
Under the slogan “Our Nights Have Returned,” the streets and public spaces have been adorned with decorative lights and installations, creating a magical atmosphere.
Ramadan Season in Jeddah offers a variety of events and activities that provide visitors with an immersive experience full of joy, set against the backdrop of cafes adorned with designs inspired by the region's heritage.
This creates a unique atmosphere where the rich past meets a thriving present.
Additionally, traditional crafts take center stage as a key element of Saudi culture, with specialized workshops held to teach these age-old skills, promoting awareness and highlighting their cultural significance.
In this regard, artisan and soap maker Hashim Al-Shawi told Asharq Al-Awsat: “The designation of 2025 as the Year of Handcrafts has had a positive impact on us, both in terms of support and empowerment, helping us reach more customers.”
“This has contributed to the expansion of our business and increased our participation in the workforce,” added Al-Shawi.
He explained that all of his soap-making tools and materials are 100% locally sourced, noting that the soap is made from seven natural oils.
Al-Shawi also highlighted that he has created 21 different scents, driven by his passion for the craft that has, over the past nine years, evolved into a steady source of income.
Ramadan Season has played a key role in supporting local entrepreneurs by providing small and medium-sized businesses with the opportunity to showcase their products in heritage markets.
This boosts the local economy and offers artisans and artists a platform to display their work.
The Ministry of Culture aims, during the Season, to offer a rich cultural experience that combines enjoyment with knowledge.
It highlights the cherished Ramadan customs and traditions, enhancing cultural awareness and reinforcing the social values that distinguish Saudi society during the holy month.