Cat Control
Unlike dogs, there is no registration requirement for cats, and Council does not provide a direct cat management service. Owners, however are encouraged to identify their cats. Cats can be identified by either a collar bearing details of owner, or a microchip inserted by a vet and the letter 'M' tattooed in the ear of the cat.
Residents may trap nuisance cats on their property. If the cat is unidentified it may be released or taken to an authorised organisation within 12 hours (for example RSPCA). However if the cat is identified it must be returned to its owner.
The law does not require a cat to be identified if it stays on the property of its owner.
Contact the Shire on (08) 9191 0999 or RSPCA on (08) 9209 9300 for guidelines on trapping cats.
Legal protection of cats does not extend to National Parks and Reserves. If any cat is found in these areas, it can be destroyed regardless of whether or not it is identified.
Cats are excellent companion animals, but if not cared for properly can become a nuisance to neighbours and the environment. By being a responsible cat owner, you will not only be making sure that your cat does not suffer unnecessarily, but will strengthen your relationship with your neighbours.
To promote responsible cat ownership the Shire urges cat owners to follow the steps outlined below to ensure that family pets and local fauna are kept safe. - Make sure your cat has regular flea and worm treatments, health checks and vaccinations.
- Sterilise your cat if no plans to breed.
- To discourage hunting, place a collar on your cat with a bell or mirror attached.
- Place an identification tag on your cat's collar.
- Understand your cat's behavior and make your property 'Cat Safe' by having an area that prevents your cat from climbing fences and straying from your yard.
- Train your cat - Cats are independent, but highly intelligent!
- Keep your cat inside at nighttime. This is when most accidents occur. (Car accidents / cat fights) and will assist with neighbourly relations.
- Make sure that there is a responsible person looking after your cat when you go on holidays, and
- Know its whereabouts. If you are unsure about anything contact your local vet.
Remember - being a responsible cat owner not only means looking after the health and welfare of your cat, but also means that your cat's activities are not being a nuisance to your neighbours and the local environment.
How many cats can you have on your property?The Shire of Derby/West Kimberley's Health - Local Laws permits residents to have 3 cats on their property. People wanting to keep more than 3 cats may apply in writing to the Shire of Derby/West Kimberley. For more information please contact the Shires Environmental Health Section by phoning (08) 9191 0999 during office hours. | 
