Cat Management in Wattle Range

Wattle Range Council invites community members to complete a short survey to help shape the future of cat management in our area.

We want to understand local experiences with cats, including how many are contained and whether uncontained cats are causing issues in the community.

The survey also seeks your views on the most effective and affordable ways to manage cats in our area, including the balance between education and regulation. It covers topics such as experiences with cats in your area and preferred approaches to cat management.

Background and why your input matters

South Australian legislation requires that all cat owners desex, microchip and register their cats. In Wattle Range, it is free to register cats however there is no legal framework to assist with managing nuisance cats at a local level.

Councils play a key role in encouraging responsible pet ownership. Our Plan of Management Relating to Dogs and Cats 2024-2029 outlines our approach to cat management and responsibilities around ownership.

Visit the Owning a dog or cat in the Wattle Range Council Area to find out more.

Nuisance cats are a growing issue in the Wattle Range Council area and the lack of a legal framework can lead to inconsistent outcomes. The cost of managing cats is currently borne by all rate payers as it is currently free for cat owners to register cats.

Council is reviewing its approach to cat management which is largely education‑focused, to consider a consistent regulatory and compliance framework.

Your feedback will help determine whether a cat by‑law should be introduced.

Next Steps

This consultation is now CLOSED.

Feedback was received until 5 pm on Tuesday, 24 March 2026. Council considered the consultation feedback report in April 2026. The report can be found here.

Council provided in-principle support for the development of a new cat By-law. A draft will now be developed and shared for further community consultation prior to adoption.