Public Consultation on Proposed Cat Management Framework

Animal & Veterinary Service, Education and Engagement

Consultation Period: 08 Dec 2023 - 01 Feb 2024

Status: Closed

Detailed Description

Background

The Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS), a cluster of the National Parks Board (NParks), launched a public survey in September 2022 on its proposed approach to improve the management and welfare of cats in Singapore. The public survey, which received over 30,000 responses, was part of the larger Forward Singapore movement that aims to refresh our social compact and build a more endearing home. Focus group discussions were also held in 2023 with diverse stakeholders including cat owners, non-cat owners, community cat caregivers, cat fosterers and rescuers, veterinarians, representatives of animal welfare groups, and relevant agencies. The discussions covered details of the proposed cat management framework, and potential impact on pet cats and their owners, as well as community cats and their caregivers.

AVS has reviewed the responses from the public survey and focus group discussions and taken into consideration the wide-ranging views of stakeholders and members of the public in the development of the proposed cat management framework. While we strive to improve the welfare and management of pet and community cats, we are also mindful of the need to strike a balance between accommodating some residents’ desires to own pet cats and the need to maintain a harmonious living environment for all.

The proposed cat management framework comprises:

1. A licensing and microchipping scheme to enhance the welfare and traceability of pet cats

2. A Trap-Neuter-Rehome/Release-Manage (TNRM) programme for community cats*

3. Education and outreach on responsible pet cat ownership and community cat caregiving

*Currently, TNRM is only for free-roaming dogs

Request for feedback

AVS would like to seek your views on the proposed cat management framework, including the proposed cat licensing scheme, through an online survey.

AVS- Public Consult on Cat Management Poster [PDF, 2,044 KB]