Wyndham council is urging cat owners to pay attention to the new 24-hour cat curfew which is now in effect.
As part of the Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAMP) passed last year, cats will now be subject to the same restrictions as dogs and will have to be inside property boundaries at all times.
A phased introduction of the new rules is currently underway to give cat owners time to ready their properties and allow the animals to adjust to the change prior to the enforcement period.
Enforcement of the previous 10pm–6pm curfew will remain in place as a grace period.
Council will be delivering an education campaign throughout the year, to help owners understand options available to contain their cat and keep them occupied indoors and outdoors within their property boundary.
Cat owners can access a growing list of resources and top tips on keeping their cats safe at home on Wyndham’s website, including cat-proof fencing, cat enclosures, fence-top devices and enrichment activities to keep cats mentally and physically active.
Cat containment is recommended by the RSPCA as the best way to keep cats safe from harm, including injuries from vehicles, fight and disease and to protect wildlife.
A council spokesperson said cat containment also reduces nuisance cats roaming and annoying neighbours with spraying, fighting and digging in gardens.
Details: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/cat-containment
