Cat control laws change next week

THE city’s cat owners will be at risk of receiving a fine if they allow them outside of their home’s boundary from Monday 1 July, unless they’re in a secure harness, held in a cat carrier, or on a leash.

The new 24-hour cat containment order will mean a significant change for some, but City of Greater Bendigo local laws and animal services coordinator Sam Johnston said there will be plenty of pluses too.

“Cat containment reduces the risk of cats suffering traumatic injuries from cars and other animals, contracting common cat diseases such as cat flu, ringworm and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus, accidental poisoning by toxic plants and pesticides, snake and spider bites and getting lost and being exposed to extreme weather,” he said.

Mr Johnston noted there are still many ways for residents’ cats to enjoy being outside.

“By creating your own cat enclosure, you can tailor it exactly to the needs of your cat. There is also a range of both budget and higher end enclosure products available from local pet stores and hardware shops,” he said

“They love the variety that these types of enclosures provide, especially if it is linked to the family home through a cat door.”

Bendigo is said to have one of the highest levels of companion animal ownership in the state, with about 18 dogs and six cats per 100 people.

They currently represent approximately 17 percent of total complaints to the council every year.

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