Liverpool City Council will implement its Urban Cat Management Plan 2021 to address increasing community concern around nuisance cats and uncontrolled cat populations in the local government area.
The plan provides a set of actions aimed at reducing cat roaming, soiling and noise complaints as well as promoting responsible pet ownership and improving the welfare of cats.
Liverpool Mayor Wendy Waller said the plan takes a holistic approach to managing domestic cats, including semi-owned and unowned cats and reinforces the importance of responsible pet ownership.
“Statistics reported by the RSPCA highlight there are almost 24,000 owned cats and 10,000 – 20,000 unowned or semi owned cats in the Liverpool local government area,” said Mayor Waller.
“Council recognises there are excessive numbers of stray cats and kittens as well as large numbers of owned and unregistered cats. Undesexed cats are responsible for thousands of unwanted litters every year.
“Under the NSW Companion Animals Act, cats can roam where they like, except in prohibited areas, which is why pet owners need to be mindful of the welfare of their pet and the impact their pet has on neighbours.
“The Urban Cat Management Plan explores ways Council can support pet owners by facilitating desexing programs; offering free microchipping and vaccination events, creating awareness of responsible pet ownership and helping residents take care of their pets,” Mayor Waller said.
Key elements to the Urban Cat Management Plan include:
- Desexing;
- Education about containment and responsible pet ownership;
- Identification and registration;
- Educate the community and improve the welfare of humans and cats.
