The Western Australian Government is undertaking a statutory review of the Cat Act 2011 and is seeking feedback from veterinarians, animal welfare organisations, local governments and the wider community. The review covers key aspects of cat management, including registration, identification, sterilisation, breeding, enforcement and broader cat management approaches.
The AVA will prepare a submission to inform the review. The AVA’s position will be underpinned by existing AVA policy, including the Management of Cats in Australia , which promotes responsible cat ownership, cat welfare and protection of wildlife and public health.
To ensure our submission reflects the practical experience and expertise of veterinarians working with cats, we are inviting member feedback.
Why this review matters
The Cat Act 2011 establishes requirements for the identification, registration and sterilisation of domestic cats. The review will consider whether the current framework remains effective and identify opportunities for improvement. The review is also taking place alongside proposed legislative reforms that would enable local governments to introduce cat containment local laws.
Input is invited on the following questions
Registration, microchipping and identification
Under the Cat Act 2011, cats aged six months and over must be microchipped, registered with their local government and wear a registration tag when in public places. Under the Cat Act Regulations 2012, a person can register their cat for either one year, three years or for the cat’s lifetime.
Should the sterilisation requirements change? If yes, what changes would you suggest and why?
Sterilisation
Under the Cat Act, cats must be sterilised by six months of age unless exempt.
Should the sterilisation requirements change? If yes, what changes would you suggest and why?
Breeding
Under the Cat Act, any person who wishes to breed cats must apply for and obtain approval to breed. Only approved cat breeders are permitted to breed cats.
Should any aspects of the breeding approval requirements under the Cat Act change? If yes, what changes would you suggest and why?
Enforcement
Do you have any suggestions to improve cat owners’ compliance and local governments’ enforcement of the Cat Act? If so, what are they?
Additional suggestions
Are there other changes that would improve the Cat Act or its administration?
Are there successful cat management initiatives from other Australian jurisdictions that should be considered in Western Australia?
Helpful resources:
AVA policies
Management of Cats in Australia
Control of native and introduced animals causing damage to agriculture or habitat
Considering welfare of target and non-target animals in planning vertebrate control programs
AVA submissions
Submission to consultation on amendments to the South Australian Dog and Cat Management Act
AVA Submission to Victorian Cat Management Strategy
How to contribute
Members are invited to provide comments and practical insights that can help inform the AVA’s submission. Please email your feedback to: publicvetaffairs@ava.com.au by Monday 27 July 2026.
This timeframe will enable AVA staff and subject matter experts to review member input and complete the AVA’s approval process before lodging the final submission.
Make your own submission
In addition to contributing to the AVA submission, members can make individual submissions directly to the WA Government.
The consultation is open until 31 August 2026. More information and to lodge an individual submission visit the Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and Safety website.
The AVA values members’ engagement and looks forward to hearing your views on how Western Australia’s cat management framework can best support animal welfare, responsible ownership, veterinary practice and protection of the environment.