Northern Rivers cat lovers begrudge ‘attack on our liberties’ as petition for enclosed cat legislation hits region

Readers of both sides of the controversial debate have presented their arguments as to whether cats should be allowed to roam freely outside.

The petition suggest if taken outdoors, cats be on tethers like a leash. Picture: Kris Reichl

Is confinement the purrrfect solution to cat vandalism? Northern Rivers residents have had their say and the verdict is mixed.

It comes following a recent petition was spread around the region, calling for NSW legislation that “prohibits domestic cat owners from letting their cats roam outside the boundaries of the cat owner’s property”.

The petition, founded by retired biologist Allen Greer, suggests laws be enforced to keep cats in their own yards and protect wildlife via keeping them indoors, putting them on a tether when outdoors or keeping them in a cat run.

Northern Rivers residents were quick to have their own say with over 120 readers commenting on our original Facebook post.

Many agreed the measure would help “protect our native wildlife” while others thought the campaign was discriminating against cats and their owners.

Here’s what you had to say:

“Absolutely for indoors only. Mine are indoors, have everything they need and most importantly are safe and healthy. Leaving the wildlife free of one predator they don’t need.” Shauna Martin

“Not all times, they are wildlife, it’s like saying sharks should not swim in the ocean.” — Megan Flynn

“Like all animals we claim ownership over, we are responsible for their actions. Pets are fed & fenced, dependent animals not free. Pet owners must also respect the life of free animals, wildlife.

Keep cats as all pets contained.” – Mo Bo

“There has been studies where dogs have been proven to be more of an issue than cats when it comes to wildlife … we always talk cats but what about dogs?” – Robyn Staines

“My 8yr old cat has never had free time outside. She comes out on a lead with us now and then but otherwise she is content inside. Like any pet she needs attention, play time, interaction etc. Cats do not belong outside in Australia. She is fed good quality food and has good litter resulting in minimal odour … if any.” – Michelle Harnett

“Just another attack on our liberties.”- Bailey Malcolm

“My three cats have daytime access to an outdoor enclosure (via a cat flap in a window and a tunnel) but are strictly indoors otherwise. The two love each other’s company while my middle cat is happiest when curled up with me! “- Jayanthi Viswanathan

“Not indoors 24/7, but yes to on their own property, unless suitably controlled. Just like dogs.” – Carl Statham

“Keep them inside 24/7, outdoors on leash or enclosure only. It‘s not just about wildlife, there are cruel humans and many many other ways your cat can end up sick and dead.” – Emma Lakin

Not kept indoors but allowed outdoors in a catio or on a leash. Why do people automatically assume ‘indoor cat’ means confined to inside a house? There are ways to allow cats out safely without them destroying the ecosystem & getting themselves killed whether that be by poison, cruel humans, jumping into a yard with a dog that mauls them to death, getting hit by a car, dying by a snake bite and soooo much more!! – Kate Ellen

“Your wandering cat kills wildlife and craps in your neighbour’s gardens and kids’ sandpits. I’m astounded by the number of people casually commenting that their cat is out all day but locked in at night like it’s okay. Where I live now it is law as a cat owner that your cat remains on your property at all times. I’ve gotten a cat trap from my local council, caught four cats in total on my property. They are collected by the council, owner contacted and they are fined. They also pay a fee to get the cat.” – Sharni Cason