RSPCA WA has launched an animation designed to help cat owners understand why keeping their cats contained is becoming recommended practice across Australia. The video highlights the very real safety risks roaming cats face and shows how simple adjustments at home can give cats a happier, healthier life.
Created by animation students at North Metropolitan TAFE, the one-minute video – Socks' Story – follows the journey of a curious suburban cat whose adventures take a dangerous turn before showing how much happier and healthier he is when kept safely at home.
The animation will be shared with all WA local governments, other rescue groups, veterinary partners, and across RSPCA WA's digital channels to support widespread public education on cat containment.
RSPCA WA Animal Welfare Policy Research Officer Debbie King said the project was developed to change the perception that letting a cat roam freely is a normal or harmless part of pet ownership.
"Just like dogs, cats are safest when kept contained," Ms King said. "Research clearly shows that contained cats can live longer, healthier and happier lives. They avoid being hit by cars, and other dangers such as dog attacks, cat fights, disease, snake bites and the risk of being lost, stolen or intentionally harmed.
"Sadly, RSPCA WA has investigated several cases of intentional cruelty to roaming cats in recent years including beloved Jamison who was deliberately shut in an esky for 10 hours, Tiger Tim who had a brick tied around his neck and was thrown in the Swan River, and a cat shot twice and left for dead in Huntingdale to name a few. We are no way blaming the owners for these deliberate acts of cruelty but it is a sad reality that it is one of the dangers cat owners need to consider if their pet is allowed to roam."
Ms King said the animation was purposely created to be friendly, positive and accessible.
"We know some conversations about cats and wildlife can become polarising. What the TAFE students have done a great job in helping us show is that cat containment is a win for everyone – the cat, their owner, the neighbours, and native wildlife. And there are so many easy, practical ways to do it like cat runs, catios, netting, or escape-proof backyard fencing."
