The responsibilities of cat owners are established under the Companion Animals Act 1998.
Kittens born after 1 July 1999 and any cat changing owners after that date will be required to be microchipped and registered. Existing cats must wear some form of identification such as a collar and tag or a microchip.
When applicable, cats are to be microchipped from 12 weeks of age or at the time of sale, and be registered from 6 months of age.
Cat owners are not required by the Act to keep their animal inside at night, however they are encouraged by Council to keep cats inside at night to protect native wildlife and the cat. The majority of car accidents and cat fights that injure cats occur at night. Any person may lawfully seize a cat if necessary to protect a person or other animal (other than vermin) from injury or death, as well as for protection of the cat.
A cat which repeatedly causes a problem, such as excessive and continuous noise or destruction to property may be declared a nuisance. Continuing offences can then result in the issue of on the spot fines by Council.