AVS seeks advice on feline welfare framework, including ownership of pet cats in HDB apartments


With the proposed licensing scheme, the public will be consulted on whether cats can be kept as pets in social housing, with the AVS and HDB also exploring the possibility of allowing pet cats in Council flats housing.

“We have heard many calls from cat lovers to allow this,” Minister of State for National Development Tan Kiat How said Saturday at a Pets’ Day Out event, through which AVS committed to the pet community.

He added that authorities recognize that residents of HDB apartments would like to have cats as pets, while others may be concerned about problems caused by irresponsible cat ownership.

“As we carefully review our pet ownership policies, we will consult widely with the public and continue to balance the needs of different segments of our community.”

MANAGING CATS IN THE COMMUNITY

The second strategy aims to extend the Trap-Neuter-Rehome/Release-Manage (TNRM) program for off-leash dogs to community cats as well. These cats will be sterilized after their capture, then rehomed if possible or released into the community.

The proposed TNRM program for cats would build on the existing Stray Cat Spaying Program (SCSP), where AVS works with animal welfare groups to manage the community’s cat population by subsidizing spay and spay costs. of microchip.

AVS is currently conducting research to better understand the population size and ecology of community cats, as well as the social aspects of cat management.

The results will be used to refine the proposed cat management framework, including the proposal to expand the program to community cats, AVS said.

RESPONSIBLE CAT OWNER

The third strategy would explore ways to further promote responsible cat ownership, cat adoption, and responsible community care of cats.

“One example is sharing with new pet owners about caring for their pets. Such efforts will help protect the health and well-being of our pets,” AVS said.

Mr Tan reassured the public that authorities will be aware of the situation for existing cat owners, with any new measures being carefully considered and gradually implemented.

“We all have a role to play in encouraging responsible pet ownership and community animal care,” he said.

The consultation is part of the wider Forward Singapore movement which aims to refresh the country’s social compact and “build a more endearing home”, AVS said.