Feline management in focus

WATTLE Range Council is inviting community members to share their views on the future of cat management across the council area through a short online survey.

Council’s director of development services Emma Clay said the survey would aim to build a clearer picture of local experiences with cats and assist the council to determine if a by-law should be introduced with increased cat controls.

“Community feedback will help council understand the communities view on approaches to managing cats, balancing both education and regulation,” Ms Clay said.

As part of the process, the survey explores community views on matters such as cat containment, possible limits on the number of cats per household, cat registration and broader approaches to cat management.

Council’s Dog and Cat Management Plan outlines the responsibilities of pet owners around microchipping, desexing and general animal management, and this education–based approach may evolve to include greater compliance measures depending on community feedback.

“The majority of cat owners act responsibly and provide hygienic living conditions for their cats as well as managing their animals to avoid undue environmental nuisance,” Ms Clay said. “Unfortunately, nuisance cats are an increasing issue across Wattle Range, demanding significant Council time and resources.

“The cost of managing cats is currently borne by all rate payers as cat registration currently has no fee.”

A legal framework would enable council to address issues that are emerging in the community regarding cats.

“The growing cost to ratepayers of managing unwanted cats, together with the survey results, will help determine whether Council pursues a new cat by–law,” Ms Clay said.

Community insights on cats in the area will ensure any future decisions are shaped by the people who live, work and care for animals in the Wattle Range Council area.

The survey is open now, will close at 5pm on Tuesday, March 24, and takes approximately five minutes to complete, with the option to provide more detailed feedback.

The information gathered will guide council’s decision on whether a cat by-law is required for the Wattle Range Council area and if development of a by-law proceeds, a draft will be created and shared with the community for further consultation before any adoption.

Visit www.engage.wattlerange.sa.gov.au/cat-management to access the survey.