The return of cat vaccines to Victoria has resulted in the resumption of cat trapping services in Wyndham.
Wyndham council paused cat trapping services last November following a nationwide cat vaccine shortage.
The service was paused to reduce the number of cats taken to the council-owned pound and the service provider, The Lost Dogs Home, so as to avoid having unvaccinated animals in shared spaces being exposed to and spreading disease.
“At the time, the Lost Dogs Home was also experiencing a critical supply shortage of
cat vaccines that resulted from international production issues,” said Wyndham mayor Jennie Barrera in explaining last year’s decision.
But while cat vaccines supplies have returned to normal, Cr Barrera still urged pet owners to do all they can to keep their cats from ending up in the pound.
“We continue to encourage residents to consider and explore alternative options
before surrendering healthy cats,” she said.
“This may include speaking to your local veterinary practice regarding veterinary
costs, seeking support from friends or family members, or contacting welfare
agencies if you are struggling to meet the costs of pet food.”
For those residents with no other option but to surrender their cats, Cr Barrera said there were a number of steps they needed to take first.
“Residents are encouraged to supply any available vaccination documentation for
their cat when delivering it to a shelter to manage vaccine distribution and prevent
duplicate vaccinations – and also make the process move more quickly if they are
surrendering their cat.”
It’s recommended that cats are desexed and kept indoors to ensure their health and safety.
Residents can request a cat trap by calling 1300 023 411, for more information visit:
www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/services/pets-animals/animal-complaints-pests/dogs-and-
