Rethink your cat roaming

COMMUNITY members are being encouraged to keep their cats safe by keeping them contained to their properties at all times.

The City of Greater Geelong is supporting the RSPCA Victoria’s Rethink Roaming initiative, which aims to help pet owners understand the danger cats face when outdoors.

More than 10,5000 registered cats across Greater Geelong are required to be contained to their owners’ properties from dusk until dawn,but there are many benefits to also containing cats during daylight hours.

With the average cat roaming 6,570 hours and up to 300 kilometres per year, outdoor cats are at risk of being hit by cars, getting into fights or catching diseases, shortening their lifespan by up to 10 years.

Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj said it was time to rethink letting cats roam the streets.

“Cats are beautiful companions – they bring immense joy to our lives, improve our psychological health and reduce loneliness.

“While pet owners can lawfully let their cats roam during the day, we know that containment is the best way to keep your furry friends safe and healthy.

“You may believe your cat doesn’t wander far, but in fact they can stray more than 300 kilometres in a year, get hit by cars, lose their way home, catch diseases and become injured in fights.”

As part of campaign, RSPCA Victoria has created easy to use guides to help people transition their cats to a safer, more enriching lifestyle at home at a low cost.

The charity will also hold a free workshop at Bunnings North Geelong on how to build an outdoor enclosure.

Environment and Circular Economy portfolio chair Cr Elise Wilkinson said helping cats adjust to containment could be challenging.

“The Rethink Roaming website has handy online guides to support this important transition.

“Despite the short-term challenges, it’s better in the long run as it eases pressure on shelters, increases animal welfare for cats and local wildlife, and ensures a longer lifespan for our feline friends.”