Why should I register my cat? All cats in Western Australia must be microchipped, sterilised and registered from six months of age and older. This is a Western Australian Government requirement. The main reason for registering your cat though is so our Rangers have your details and can return your pet if they become lost. Owners who don't register their pets can be fined $200.
My cat is microchipped – does that mean it is also registered? No. Microchipping your cat does not automatically mean your cat has been registered. Contact our Customer Relations Team if you are unsure if your cat is registered with us.
What does my cat’s registration pay for? Cat registration fees contribute to handling of animal-related requests, including returning lost pets and animal related investigations.
When do I have to renew my cat’s registration? Your cat’s registration expires on 31 October, unless you renew your pet for life. You will receive a renewal notice from us in September if your cat’s registration is due for renewal.
What confirmation will I get that my registration/renewal has been processed? You will receive a registration certificate and tag by post to confirm your cat’s registration/renewal has been processed.
How can I find my cat’s microchip number? You can find your cat’s microchip number from vet records you already have, by contacting your vet, or visiting a local vet.
I have just moved to the City of Melville, do I need to register my cat? Cats need to be registered to the address they are ordinarily kept at. If your cat is currently registered with another council in WA then you can transfer this registration free of charge. To do this complete a new registration (as if you are registering your cat with us for the first time) and make sure you include details of your current registration.
What should I do if I move to a new address within the City of Melville? You must notify us of your new address. You Must notify us in writing. You can do this in person, by email or via our General Animal Maintenance Form.
How do I notify you if I have sold my cat, or given them to a new owner? Please contact our Customer Relations Team or use our General Animal Maintenance Form to request a copy of our Transfer of Cat Ownership Form. You must complete this form and return it to us by email so that the pets records can be updated.
What do I need to do if my cat has died or left the City of Melville area? You must notify us in writing if your cat is deceased or you have moved out of the City of Melville area. This can be via email or our General Animal Maintenance Form. If you do not have online access you can attend our Civic Centre in person and our Customer Relations staff will assist you to complete the General Animal Maintenance Form.
What if my cat’s tag is lost or damaged? You can notify us verbally over the phone and in person, or in writing by email, or using our Animal Maintenance Form . We will send you a replacement tag by post.
What is the difference between sterilisation and vaccination? Sterilisation is surgical desexing that involves removing part of the reproductive system of an animal whilst under a general anaesthetic. Animal vaccination is the immunisation of an animal against harmful diseases.
What concessions are available for seniors? Pensioners only need to pay half the prescribed registration fee if they have a Pension Concession Card or both a Commonwealth Seniors Card and a State Seniors Card.
What do I need to know if I am selling my cat When a cat is sold or given away, the seller must ensure the cat is microchipped and sterilised prior to transfer. If the cat cannot be sterilised due to its health or age, the seller must issue a prepaid sterilisation voucher to the new owner.
My cat is very old - do I still need to have it sterilised? Yes, the legislation applies to all cats of all ages. However, your vet can issue an exemption certificate if sterilising your cat is likely to have a negative impact on your cat’s health and welfare.
How does the Cat Act 2011 affect cat breeders? The legislation requires that a person who chooses to breed cats must apply to their local government for a permit.
Download the Application Form to Apply for a Permit to breed cats. Once filled out mail, post or in deliver in person.
For more information view the Cat Breeder Fact Sheet.
What happens if I do not get my cat microchipped? When you register your cat, you will be required to provide proof that the cat has been microchipped by providing the microchip number. A person who fails to ensure their cat is microchipped may be liable for a penalty.
How do I get my cat microchipped? A vet, vet nurse or a person with the relevant qualifications from a registered training provider is able to implant a microchip in your cat.
For more information on microchipping, contact your regular vet.
What are the benefits of microchipping? Microchipping your cat make it easier for you to be reunited if they were to get lost. Any ranger or vet can scan the microchip to reveal your contact details. If your cat is impounded and they are not microchipped, you may be liable for a fine.