Cats
Responsible Cat Ownership in the Shire of Northam
Under the Cat Act 2011, all domestic cats aged 6 months or older must be:
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Sterilised (unless used for breeding by a registered breeder)
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Microchipped, registered with the Shire of Northam, and wearing a valid registration tag
- Cat owners are encouraged to ensure that their cat(s) are not wandering or causing a nuisance
For more details:
Cat Local Law Cat Regulations Cat Act
Thinking of Getting a Cat?
Before committing, consider:
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Speaking with your vet or experienced cat owners
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Researching breed and care needs
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Avoiding impulse decisions: cats often live for 12+ years
Registration & Microchipping
All domestic cats aged 6 months and older must be:
- Sterilised (unless kept for breeding by a registered breeder)
- Microchipped
- Registered with the Shire of Northam
- Wearing a registration tag at all times
To register: Cat Registration
Exemption from Sterilisation or Microchipping
If your cat cannot be sterilised or microchipped for health reasons, a letter from your vet must be provided confirming that the procedure would negatively affect your cat’s health. This documentation is required when registering your cat with the Shire.
Identification
Nuisance Cats & What You Can Do
Cats can be considered a nuisance if they roam, disturb neighbours, or harm wildlife.
If you're experiencing nuisance behaviour:
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Talk to the cat’s owner first
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Contact the Northam Ranger Services for advice, strategies, and support
⚠️ Never harm a cat: it's an offence under the Animal Welfare Act 2002.
Number of Cats
A maximum of two cats is allowed per property. If you wish to keep more, you'll need to apply for approval. Approval only applies to the cats nominated at the time.
Willing to have more than two? 3-4 Cat Permit (Not a Cattery)
You will first require Town Planning approval before a cattery can be approved from the Shire of Northam to breed cats, even for one litter.
To apply: Cattery Application