An individual has been convicted and fined following an investigation that resulted in the removal of 110 cats from a Beechboro property and surrounding neighbourhood.
The investigation commenced in August 2025 after reports of large numbers of cats roaming from a residential property.
As part of the investigation, City of Swan Community Safety Rangers undertook an extensive trapping operation at neighbouring properties before executing a warrant at the Beechboro property in November 2025 with assistance from Cat Haven and the RSPCA.
A total of 78 cats and four kittens were removed from the property, while a further 28 cats were trapped and impounded from nearby properties, bringing the total number removed to 110.
None of the cats seized during the operation were registered, microchipped or sterilised.
As a result, the property's occupant was charged with 31 offences under the Cat Act 2011 (WA), including:
- Keeping excess cats
- Failing to register cats
- Failing to microchip cats
- Failing to sterilise cats.
The matter was heard in Midland Magistrates Court in July 2026, where the offender pleaded guilty to all charges.
In sentencing, the Court noted that no person could realistically care for such a large number of cats while maintaining an appropriate standard of care. While the Court accepted the offender did not intend for the situation to develop to such an extreme level, it emphasised the need for both specific and general deterrence.
The offender was fined $1,500 and ordered to pay the City's costs of $1,162.30.
This outcome sends a clear message that the City will take action against irresponsible cat ownership and animal hoarding.
Roaming and feral cats continue to pose a significant threat to Australian wildlife. Research indicates that a roaming pet cat kills an average of 186 animals each year, including approximately 110 native animals. In effect, a single roaming pet cat kills more than two native animals every week.
The City's Community Safety Rangers remain committed to protecting the community, promoting responsible pet ownership and reducing the impact of unmanaged cat populations on local wildlife.
Under the Cat Act 2011 (WA), residents are reminded that:
- No more than two cats may be kept on a property without approval
- Cats must be microchipped, registered and sterilised
- Owners must take reasonable steps to prevent their cats from entering private property without the consent of the owner or occupier.
The City encourages all cat owners to ensure they are meeting their obligations and taking steps to keep their pets safe, healthy and contained.
Residents experiencing issues with cats entering their property can access the Community Safety Team's free cat trapping program. Rangers will deliver a cat trap on request, with any captured cat collected and impounded at the City's animal management facility.
