An internet search for ‘Stray Cats’ may take you down a rabbit hole of 1980s rockabilly music, but it is not ‘Cool for Cats’ to stray.
Redland City Council recognises that pets enrich our quality of life, but straying cats cause impacts for neighbours and wildlife.
Deputy Mayor Julie Talty urged responsible cat owners to keep their animals safe on their property.
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“Council received 240 complaints in relation to straying cats last financial year,” Cr Talty said.
“In addition, 407 cats were impounded at Redland Animal Shelter because of them straying onto neighbouring properties and causing a nuisance.
“Straying cats often have instinctive hunting habits, creating a significant environmental issue given the impacts on local wildlife, particularly birds, reptiles and small mammals.
“They can also be hit by cars, injured by other animals or exposed to feline diseases.
“Keeping cats indoors or in a secure outdoor enclosure helps improve their safety and wellbeing as well as protecting local biodiversity.”
Cr Talty said responsible cat ownership also included registration and microchipping.
“Registration and microchipping help to reunite pets with their owners should they become lost or be impounded,” she said.
“They also help Council plan and deliver animal management services.”
All cats over the age of three months must be microchipped and registered with Council, with Council offering a discounted registration fee for desexed cats.
Redland City residents are required to keep no more than two cats on any property, but a third cat may be considered following an application for a permit.
Stray cats are taken to Redland Animal Shelter in Thornlands.
Images and details of impounded cats are displayed on Council’s Lost and found animals webpage and on Redland Animal Shelter’s Facebook page.
More information on responsible pet ownership is available on Council’s website.
