Nuisance cats
What to do about stray or wandering cats on your property
If cats are frequently entering your property, there are several steps you can take to manage the situation safely and respectfully.
Talk to your neighbour
If you know who owns the cat, try speaking with them directly. Many owners are unaware their cat is causing a nuisance and a friendly conversation can often lead to a quick resolution.
Keeping cats out of your garden
If the cat’s owner is unknown, you can discourage visits by:
- Using water: Gently squirt water near (not at) the cat’s side to startle it. Avoid aiming for the face.
- Making noise: Clap hands or use a loud sound to scare the cat away.
- Keeping areas wet: Cats dislike wet surfaces - watering garden beds in the evening can help.
- Applying scents: Sprinkle citrus peels, cayenne pepper, mustard, vinegar, eucalyptus oil or citronella in problem areas.
- Using commercial repellents: Available from pet stores, nurseries or vets.
- Planting deterrents: Use prickly plants or herbs like rue in frequented spots.
- Installing barriers: Vaseline on fence tops or floppy chicken wire can prevent climbing.
- Trying electronic devices: Motion-activated ultrasonic deterrents may help, though they can affect other wildlife.
When the problem persists
If deterrents don’t work and the cat continues to cause issues, you can report the matter to Council. Please provide:
- a description or photo of the cat
- details of when and where the cat is seen
- any known information about the owner
This helps Council investigate and take appropriate action under the Cats By-law.
Stray cats
Not all roaming cats are strays - many have homes nearby. Feeding unfamiliar cats encourages them to return and can worsen roaming and nuisance behaviours.
Avoid feeding cats that aren’t yours. This can lead to breeding, spread disease and harm wildlife.
Signs a cat may have a home:
- Roams confidently during the day
- Looks clean and healthy
- Isn’t searching for food
- Wears a collar
- Is friendly
If unsure:
- Ask neighbours or check local lost pet groups
- Use a paper collar to ask if the cat has an owner
- Only collar friendly cats
If the cat is a nuisance and you know the owner, talk to them calmly. If unresolved, contact Council.
If no owner is found, take the cat to a vet to check for a microchip. You may choose to adopt, but be ready to desex, microchip, and contain it to your property.
Kittens and pregnant cats
If you find kittens alone, keep your distance—mum may return.
- Young kittens (eyes closed): Monitor for 2 hours before calling AWL.
- Older kittens (eyes open, walking): Monitor for 4 hours.
Only move them if AWL advises or they’re in danger (cold, wet, sick).
Pregnant cat in labour?
- Give space and stay quiet.
- Try to find the owner (ask neighbours, post online).
- Provide food, water, and shelter if needed.
- Call AWL if no owner is found or for advice when kittens arrive.
Avoid disturbing her - stress can cause rejection of kittens.
Unowned and semi-owned cats
Not all roaming cats are lost. Many are semi-owned - fed and cared for by people who don’t claim ownership. Others are unowned but survive near humans.
Avoid feeding unidentified cats.
Feeding encourages roaming, attracts more unowned cats and can lead to breeding, disease and harm to wildlife.
What to do instead:
- Take the cat to a vet to check for a microchip
- Check local lost pet boards
- If unclaimed, consider adopting - desex, microchip, and keep it contained
Feral cats and responsible ownership
Feral cats are born in the wild, live independently and avoid human contact. Though social with other cats, they are not socialised to people.
Domestic cats can become stray or feral if not properly cared for. Responsible ownership helps prevent this and protects native wildlife.
Tips for cat owners
- Desex your cat to prevent unwanted litters and reduce stray populations.
- Microchip and use ID tags to help reunite lost pets with their owners.
- Keep cats confined indoors or in secure enclosures to protect wildlife and prevent roaming.