In Western Australia, pet cats are causing chaos as local councils grapple with ineffective control measures, according to recent research.

Numerous cats are found wandering the streets without registration or microchips.

The issue is compounded by the fact that a significant number of these animals are not desexed, potentially increasing the population of stray and feral cats in the region.

A survey conducted across 103 of Western Australia’s 139 local government areas (LGAs) highlighted a lack of community understanding regarding the responsibilities of cat ownership.

Under the Cat Act of 2011 in Western Australia, it is mandatory for pet owners to have their cats desexed, microchipped, and registered by the age of six months.

Cats should also wear an identification in public places.

But only 14 of the 139 LGAs reported high registration and microchipping compliance.

Just 17 reported high desexing compliance, and only five reported high levels of responsible pet cat ownership awareness.

As well as putting cats at risk of illness and injury, low rates of responsible cat ownership in WA threatens the welfare and conservation of native wildlife.

But is permanent cat containment legislation (banning cats from roaming outdoors) the right solution?

An increasing body of research has shown that keeping cats indoors full-time and limiting outdoor access to enclosed areas or while on a leash is better for the cat’s welfare.

It’s also better for the welfare of other animals domestic cats often prey upon.

But many owners who allow their cats to roam are staunchly against such measures.

According to the research, only three LGAs in WA have been successful in introducing permanent cat containment laws to keep cats indoors.

Others have tried but failed.

Despite this, 80 of the 103 LGAs surveyed said they would introduce permanent cat containment laws if there was a clear pathway to implementation.

“Many LGAs in WA want to (and many have tried to) implement restrictions to prevent pet cats from roaming, with limited success and considerable frustration,” the report read.

“Addressing these legislative, community education and enforcement needs will ensure that feline, native wildlife and human values are improved in WA.”