Highlighting the importance of responsible pet ownership
It’s kitten season, and shelters across Australia are overwhelmed with unwanted litters and stray cats. This annual influx stretches resources, puts pressure on volunteers, and leads to an increase in euthanasia of cats that can’t be rehomed.
The majority of these issues are preventable. Responsible pet ownership, including desexing, microchipping, and keeping cats safely contained to your property 24/7, not only protects wildlife and reduces shelter intake, but also keeps pet cats healthier, safer, and happier.
Contained cats live significantly longer lives, are less likely to get hit by cars, get into fights, or contract diseases, and they don’t roam into neighbours’ gardens or become a nuisance. Secure outdoor cat enclosures or walks on a lead are great ways to give cats safe access to the outdoors while keeping them and wildlife out of harm’s way.
While many people believe not letting their cat out at night is enough, cat curfews/partial containment doesn’t halt impacts.
Cats allowed to roam during the day simply switch to hunting birds and reptiles instead of mammals, and they remain at risk of injury, illness, and death.
Stray and roaming cats also suffer poor welfare and contribute to rising cat populations, especially during kitten season. Help keep your cat safe and protect wildlife, become a responsible pet owner.