Perth Voice Interactive

VINCENT will have another try getting cat containment through a powerful Upper House committee.

Mayor Alison Xamon successfully moved a notice of motion at this month’s meeting asking the admin to get legal advice on whether the state Cat Act can be interpreted in a way that would allow the council to mandate that cats be kept on an owner’s property, unless under control such as a leash.

Vincent will also request the Cook government to bring forward the review of the Act to enable local governments to implement cat containment laws.

“Cats, particularly feral ones, are known to be predators to various mammals, reptiles and birds in WA,” Ms Xamon said.

“Roaming domestic cats in residential streets and public areas can also pose a risk to not only themselves and other cats but local wildlife and people.

Ms Xamon said there needed to be a uniform law for all household pets.

“Whether you have a cat, dog, miniature pig or rabbit, they should not roam unsupervised in public areas and in neighbours’ backyards,” she said.

Previous attempts have been shut down by the Joint Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation which says the clash with the state Cat Act.