Responsible Cats Ownership and Nuisance Cats

Cat owner responsibilties

As a cat owner, you must ensure your cat is:

• Microchipped, sterilised and registered with the City of Cockburn*

• Is not causing a nuisance to the community

• Is not negatively impacting on the environment.

*If aged six months or over.

You are responsible for the welfare and management of your cat. In addition to the above, please ensure you understand your obligations under the Cat Act 2011.

Failure to comply may result in infringements in excess of $200 and possible further legal proceedings.
Find out about:

• Cat registration and renewals
• Cat microchipping and sterilisation.​

Keeping cats inside

Did you know that cats allowed to roam free, have a life expectancy of much less than half that of indoor cats?

In addition to protecting our local native animals and not being a nuisance to your neighbours, cats are happiest and healthiest at home with you.

For advice on the importance of keeping your cat(s) indoors and how to give them a happy and healthy life, visit the South West Group and RSPCA websites.

Protecting our native wildlife 

The City of Cockburn has many native bushland and wetland areas that are home to birds, reptiles, possums and bandicoots.
Our native animals are at risk due to the predatory nature of domestic cats.  

Studies have shown that for each hectare of urban land, there are two domestic cats on average who will each kill eight birds a year. In most suburban areas, only 20 birds hatch per hectare per year.
Cats have also been found responsible for 16 mammal and 8 reptile deaths each per year.

To help protect our wildlife, please make sure your cat:

• Wears a collar with bells
• Does not roam at night. 

Number of cats allowed 

Each property owner is allowed to have up to three cats.

If you have four or more cats, you will need to apply for a cattery license. Please contact us for more information.

Breeding cats

You will require approval from the City of Cockburn to breed cats. This includes the intent to only breed one litter from your cat.

Please contact the City's Ranger Services on 08 9411 3444 or email for further information.

Nuisance cats

Uncontrolled household and feral cats can create a nuisance in our community.

The City relies on cat owners ensuring their cat remains indoors where possible (especially at night).

If you have a nuisance cat on your property, the City recommends you discuss your concerns with the cat’s owner in the first instance. If you continue to experience issues, please contact us.

If the nuisance cat is feral, it can be trapped and humanely euthanised by a vet or other authorised person. 

Rehoming your cat

If you are unable to care for your cat, contact Cat Haven or the RSPCA for help.

More information and contact

For more information on the City’s approach to the management of feral and domestic cats, please refer to the document below:

For more information on cat owner responsibilities, please call 08 9411 3444 or email.