Legal Aid: A Blog About Laws And Legal Processes

Pet Laws: 3 Key Legal Requirements for Cat Owners

4 March 2021

Renee Bates

Many people love to keep pets and become pet parents. Before getting a kitten from the rescue centre or a friend's home, the job of caring for it seems easy. However, after taking the little animal home and facing the challenges of being a pet parent, many people get overwhelmed and may neglect the animal. The state provides stringent laws to protect these innocent animals from human cruelty and neglect. 

Before owning a pet, you need to understand the necessary legal requirements. Failure to comply with the laws can lead to hefty fines, jail time and even getting banned from owning a pet. Here are three key legal requirements you have to meet before becoming a cat owner. 

You Should Microchip and Register the Cat

Some pet parents do not provide favourable living conditions for their cats, forcing the little animals to wander off. Your cat can also leave your home in search of a mate or play companions. A microchip helps you find your cat when it gets lost. 

The law requires you to implant a microchip in your cat containing details of the animal and your contacts. Microchipping is an excellent safety feature because it minimises the chances of losing your pet completely. 

You Should Protect Your Cat From Trespass

Owning a pet is wonderful, but it should not be a source of stress to your neighbours, their children and pets. Before getting a cat, ensure that you have installed a fence and other barriers around your property to prevent them from wandering off to nearby properties. 

Your neighbour has a right to seize and have your cat impounded if they form a habit of trespassing into their yard. Another smart way to keep your pet within your home is by ensuring they always have interesting things to do around the home.

You Should Take Care of the Cat's Health and Welfare

Another legal requirement for cat owners is to ensure proper health and welfare of the pets. In some places, the local council demands that you neuter or spay the cat to reduce the chances of unplanned reproduction. You should also ensure that your pet receives all the recommended vaccines before bringing them home.

When your cat falls ill, the law requires you to take them to the vet for treatment. Another fundamental obligation is to feed the animal properly to avoid malnourishment.

By following these legal requirements, you will provide your pet with the best care possible and avoid getting into the wrong side with the authorities. Check with local councils and other legal bodies to learn and understand all the pet laws in your region. 

Share