The Scottish government wants everyone to know it does not plan to ban cats. First Minister John Swinney was forced to issue the statement after a report by independent experts branded felines a threat to Scotland’s wildlife and suggested “containment” measures be considered to reduce the damage.

Exasperated Swinney forced to deny he plans to ban cat ownership in Scotland - Independent report says domestic cats kill 27 million birds in the UK each year

The first minister rules out the idea after experts suggest ways to reduce the impact domestic cats have on wildlife.

The country's first minister was forced to issue the statement after a report branded felines a threat to Scotland’s wildlife and suggested “containment” measures be considered.

It has been estimated that cats across the UK kill tens of millions of wild animals each year - including birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians. Countries such as Australia have set up initiatives including curfews and containment areas in response to the problem.

The Scottish Animal Welfare Commission (SAWC) has recommended a ban on cats in Scotland as well as the introduction of curfews and leads for the animals

The SNP are considering banning domestic cats in a bid to protect wild animals, it has been reported. Under new proposals owners could be ordered to keep moggies indoors or even be stopped from owning a feline altogether in some areas.

An SNP report about cat ownership has produced a flurry of headlines over an approaching “cat ban” in Scotland. But is it true?

First Minister John Swinney issued the statement after a report by independent experts suggested felines be contained to reduce threats to local wildlife.

The Scottish Animal Welfare Commission said cats kill at least 700 million birds and other animals each year in the U.K.