What does it mean?

The Domestic Animals Act 1994 requires all dogs in Victoria to be confined to the owner’s property. Confinement of cats is up to individual councils.

Introducing a cat curfew would mean that cats would not be allowed outside of your property during curfew hours. We are considering 2 kinds of curfew:

24 hours
Cats would not be allowed outside of your property at all times.

Dusk to Dawn
Cats would not be allowed outside of your property at night time.

If a cat curfew is supported cat owners will be educated and may be fined as part of a cat curfew if their cat is caught out during the hours of curfew.

Impacts on animals

• Cats that are kept inside on average live much longer than cats that are allowed outside.
• Confining cats would help protect our native wildlife.
• Cats that wander are vulnerable to disease and attacks from other cats and dogs.
• If a curfew is introduced, unregistered cats that are found outside will be taken to the Council pound.

Impacts on the community

• A cat curfew aims to reduce noise and other nuisances caused roaming pet cats.
• A cat curfew will not deal with stray or ‘semi-owned’ cats.
• If a curfew is introduced and residents have issues with cats trespassing you can request a cat trap from your Council.

Impacts on pet owners

• Cat owners will be educated and we will offer support for transitioning your cat to indoor life.
• You may be fined as part of a cat curfew if your cat is caught out during the hours of curfew.
• It is important your cat is registered with Council so if it is found outside of your property it can be returned to you.