Cat owners urged to comply with new law

The State Government passed the WA Cat Act legislation in 2011, with the aim of promoting responsible cat ownership.

The new law will require all domestic cats, over six months old, to be sterilised, micro chipped and registered with their local council.

The cats must also wear an identification tag at all times.

It is the first time a cat law has been introduced and residents are being urged to follow the guidelines to avoid penalties.

Kalamunda council chief executive Rhonda Hardy said the purpose of the act was to encourage and promote responsible cat ownership, reduce the number of unwanted cats being bred and allow cats found in public and private areas to be reunited with their owners.

Cat registration in the Shire of Kalamunda will be available by 1 November. Micro chipping and sterilisation services are available at all local vets. For further information on the Cat Act 2011, email cats@dlg.wa.gov.au.