Despite the benefits of companionship that pet cats can offer, an uncared-for feline population can pose significant health risks and nuisances, including fighting, urinating in public spaces, and the predation of local wildlife. The number of stray cats and kittens taken in by animal shelters is overwhelming, and unfortunately, efforts by well-meaning residents to feed these animals often exacerbate the problem by encouraging reproduction and overpopulation.
To address these issues, the Council will be implementing a trapping program in the coming months. This program aims to safely capture, neuter, and rehome stray cats, thereby reducing their population and the problems associated with it.
“Council staff have received complaints about the increase in unowned cats in the Council area,” said Barunga West Council CEO Maree Wauchope. “Households are allowed no more than two cats under Council’s by-law. In the coming months, Council will be implementing a trapping program, with further details to be provided.
“In the meantime, we urge all cat owners in the Council area to identify their pets with a microchip. This measure ensures the safe return of your beloved pet should it go astray. Convenient microchipping services are available through vet clinics or chip blitz programs.”
By law, an “identified” cat is owned and is therefore legally protected. Your cat can be identified by microchip inserted under the cat's skin by a vet, with an "M" tattooed in the ear (as per legislation) and, a collar bearing the owner's address or phone number.
The legal protection of cats does not extend to national parks and reserves. If any cat is found in a national park, designated sanctuary or Crown lands, or more than one kilometre from any place genuinely used as a residence, then legally it can be destroyed regardless of whether or not it is identified.
Council emphasises the advice of animal welfare advocates around the importance of desexing and microchipping cats, and for owners to keep their pets secure in an enclosed space in their backyards or indoors. Indoor living can provide a safe, enriched life for cats, helping to keep them off the streets and out of harm's way.
Residents who spot stray cats in their neighbourhood are encouraged to contact the Council. Captured cats will be scanned for microchips to facilitate their return to owners, if identifiable. Barunga West Council does not charge cat registration fees, however, you must record your cat in Dogs and Cats Online by its microchip number.
“With the community's help and adherence to Council regulations, we can ensure that cats continue to bring joy and companionship to our homes while minimising their impact on our neighbourhoods and wildlife,” Ms Wauchope said.
Further information: https://www.barungawest.sa.gov.au/services/animal-management/cats