What will happen to my cat?

If your cat is found outside your property during curfew hours our Animal Managment Officers will take the following steps:

• Your cat will be taken to the Epping Animal Welfare Facility,
• The cat will be scanned for a microchip and Council registration,
• You will need to collect your cat from the facility and you will have to pay reclaim fees,
• You may be fined.

It is important your cat is microchipped and registered with Council so we can reunite you.

What if other cats are on my property?

If you have nuisance cats on your property during a cat curfew you can follow these steps:

• Request a cat trap from Council.
• Our animal management officers will give you information on how to use the cat trap safely.
• If a cat is caught it will be picked up by our officers and taken to the Epping Animal Welfare Facility before being collected by its owner.
• The owner of the cat will have to pay reclaim fees and may receive a fine

Support for pet owners

There are many resources to assist cat owners in transitioning their cats to an indoor lifestyle. If a decision is made to introduce a cat curfew we will offer support to assist Merri-bek cats and their humans make the transition.

A cat curfew doesn’t mean your cat has to be only indoors. There are many types of enclosures, cat runs and confinement strategies so your cat can enjoy your backyard or balcony.

Enrichment activities such as cat towers, cat toys and taking your cat outside on a harness and leash can help keep your cat active and happy.

Check out Safe Cat Safe Wildlife for more information. This initiative by Zoos Victoria and RSPCA Victoria aims to help pet cats live their longest and happiest lives.