NSW Inquiry into the management of cat populations

28 Nov 2024

The AVA lodged a submission to the recent NSW Legislative Council's Inquiry into the Management of Cat Populations. The AVA submission emphasised a balanced, evidence-based approach to cat management, focusing on the welfare of cats and wildlife alike. It highlights the importance of collaboration between veterinarians, local councils, animal welfare groups, and the broader community to achieve effective and humane outcomes.

A summary of key recommendations from the submission is provided below, with the full submission viewed here.

  1. Definition and Classification: The AVA advocates for clear and holistic definitions of cat populations—owned, semi-owned, unowned, and feral—emphasising the need for national consistency. This is critical for developing targeted and effective management strategies. Collaboration with stakeholders, including researchers and welfare groups, is recommended to establish these definitions.
  2. Containment Policies: While cat containment is recognised for its benefits, such as protecting wildlife and improving cat welfare, the AVA cautions against blanket mandatory policies without robust evidence. Instead, containment strategies should prioritise enrichment to meet cats' physical and mental needs and avoid unintended consequences, such as increased abandonment or euthanasia.
  3. Desexing Programs: The AVA supports, targeted desexing initiatives, to address overpopulation. However, these programs should be funded by the government to ensure they do not financially strain private veterinary practices. Evidence from successful programs shows reduced impoundment and euthanasia rates alongside improved community outcomes.
  4. Community Education and Support: Effective cat management must integrate education on responsible pet ownership with practical support to address barriers like cost and access to desexing services. The AVA calls for behaviour change programs that encourage containment and desexing, particularly targeting semi-owners who care for unowned cats.