City responds to cat management concerns

In response to community concerns about the impact of cats on native wildlife, the City of Gosnells is asking local residents to complete a short survey about the management of cats.

Mayor Terresa Lynes is encouraging residents to complete the survey, to ensure any future changes to the City’s Cat Local Law reflect community preferences.
“We know many residents have strong views about how cats are managed in the City of Gosnells,” she said.

“The City’s current Cat Local Law was made in 2014 and Council is keen to gauge community sentiment before deciding whether the law should be strengthened.”

The survey covers a range of issues including whether or not there should be a limit on the number of cats residents can keep, and whether cats should be prohibited from places such as environmental conservation areas and children’s playgrounds.

Mayor Lynes said community feedback was crucial to determining whether amendments to the local law were required.

“Wandering cats are more likely to be injured or contract diseases, hurt or kill native wildlife and may be a nuisance to neighbours, and this survey is an important opportunity for residents to provide feedback about cat management in the City,” she said.

The survey will be open on yoursay.gosnells.wa.gov.au from Friday 23 September to Friday 4 November and at the end of the consultation period City officers will review all feedback and prepare a report to Council for further consideration.

Under the State Government’s Cat Act 2011, all cats aged over six months are required to be sterilised, registered and microchipped.

Click here for more information about keeping cats in the City of Gosnells, or call 9397 3000.