RSPCA warns Yarra Ranges residents against electric cat fences to comply with 24-hour cat curfew

ELECTRIC cat fences suggested by Yarra Ranges Council to contain moggies have been rejected by the RSPCA because they hurt animals.

THOUSANDS of people have voiced their opposition to Yarra Ranges Council’s 24-hour cat curfew, as the RSPCA speaks out against electric systems that keep cats in check.

The council approved the cat curfew last month but even before it takes affect in six months, the new law has divided the community.

FOR AND AGAINST: Two owners have their say on the 24-hour cat curfew

Residents accused Yarra Ranges Council of not consulting properly with the community but Yarra Ranges Mayor Fiona McAllister downplayed the possibility of “cat patrols” roaming the streets to catch frisky felines.

A Feline-loving primary school student in Mooroolbark even joined the fray, organising a petition opposing the curfew.

A petition on change.org calling on the council to abolish the cat curfew has attracted more than 2200 supporters.

And in Leader’s online poll more than 700 people voted, with 53.41 per cent against the curfew.

Meanwhile the RSPCA says it does not advocate the use of electronic cat containment systems, one of the methods suggested by Yarra Ranges Council to contain cats to properties, under its 24-hour cat curfew.

RSPCA Victoria inspectorate manager Allie Jalbert said while the systems were legal, they delivered a shock and could cause pain.

“There are more humane, alternative systems that restrict cat access and egress from a property, such as Oscillot (a panel that can be installed on existing fences that stops cats from climbing over).”

News_Rich_Media: Oscilllot cat containment system

But Ms Jalbert said they encouraged the containment of cats in an enclosed area.

“Containing cats is not detrimental to their welfare, provided they receive adequate exercise and environmental enrichment,” she said.

Yarra Ranges Council received 300 requests for cages last year for residents to capture trespassing cats.

Ms Jalbert said this was similar to several other local councils.

“These cages usually have a spring-loaded door, which means there is no need for residents to handle a cat.

“Provided the cages are legal and humane, we don’t object to their use. We feel that where councils provide residents with practical support and solutions, residents are less likely to harm cats that roam onto their property.”

Ms Jalbert said residents should contact their local council when they caught a cat and the cat should only be contained in the cage for a short time with access to drinking water.