LONDON -- 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.

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.

The Scottish government has said it will "under no circumstances" be banning cats after being urged to order a report to explore measures for protecting at-risk wildlife.

Cats are great pets for all sorts of reasons, whether it’s providing companionship for elderly people or those living alone, comfort for people with health conditions or help

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.

John Swinney had to issue a statement over the matter after a report from independent experts branded cats as a threat to Scotland’s wildlife. It suggested the government take drastic measures including keeping cats locked inside - and even banning ownership altogether.