RSPCA NSW is set to work with ten local councils over the next four years onKeeping Cats Safe at Home.

The project aims to reduce the negative impacts that cats have on wildlife andencourages cat owners to keep their cats safely contained at home.

RSPCA NSW Project Manager Dr Gemma Ma said the mammoth project was designed tochange attitudes and behaviours in the community towards responsible catownership.

“We are excited to be working closely with our council partners to initiatereal change in the way people care for cats as companion animals.

“Our job is to help people help animals, and in doing that we can ensure ourbeloved pets live longer, happier and healthier lives and so too will ourunique native birds and wildlife.”

Consultation with stakeholders, including councils, veterinarians, wildlifegroups, cat owners and the general community is currently underway. Communitymembers, including people living outside of the participating councils, areencouraged to submit their views about cats and how they are managed via oursurvey link below

Click below to take the survey

Your answers will help us keep cats and wildlife safe.

The $2.5 million grant, announced by NSW Environment Minister Matt Kean, comesfrom the NSW Environmental Trust’s Major Projects Prospectus.

“The program will help protect our unique wildlife, with domestic catsestimated to kill around 53 million reptiles and 61 million birds in Australiaeach year,” Mr Kean said.

“While many cat owners are already incredibly responsible, others appearunaware of best-practice when it comes to keeping wildlife safe.

“This vital program will help us all protect our unique wildlife, especiallyin areas such as bushland habitats on suburban fringes.”

The participating councils include: Blue Mountains City Council, Byron ShireCouncil, Campbelltown City Council, City of Parramatta Council, Hornsby ShireCouncil, Northern Beaches Council, Shoalhaven City Council, Tweed Shire andKyogle Councils, Walgett Shire Council and Weddin Shire Council.

RSPCA NSW CEO Steve Coleman said, “We commend the local councils and stategovernment for demonstrating their commitment to wildlife protection andcaring for companion animals.”

“Cats and wildlife need our help, and this project is a big step in the rightdirection.”

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