"Over recent years, Cats Protection has become increasingly concerned by the number of much-loved pet cats that are handed into us for rehoming simply because their owner cannot find rented housing that accepts cats.

"We also hear regularly from all sorts of renters who have sadly given up on ever owning a pet cat, including young families and elderly people living alone, all of whom would benefit enormously from the joy a cat can bring to a household.

“We launched our Purrfect Landlords campaign to help encourage more landlords to accept cats. As part of our research, we found that 94% of private tenants with a cat said cat ownership has a positive impact on their lives with benefits such as improving mental health, providing company, happiness and affection. This clearly shows why it is so important that everyone is given the chance to own a pet cat, regardless of whether they rent or own their homes.

“We’re delighted the Government has made this important step towards helping more renters enjoy sharing their home with a pet cat.”