The SPCA has long advocated for cats to be allowed in HDB flats. Through focus group discussions and collaboration with the authorities, we have tirelessly worked towards establishing a comprehensive cat ownership and management framework.

On 2 December 2023, the AVS announced a proposal that would allow the ownership of up to two pet cats in each HDB flat with conditions for microchipping and licensing. This marks a positive stride towards more responsible cat ownership in Singapore. In particular, we believe that a licensing system will be a good deterrent against pet cat abandonment and allow for traceability in the cases we investigate.

While we welcome the proposal, the SPCA also calls for additional conditions that will safeguard the well-being of pet and community cats:

• Mandatory Sterilisation
  Sterilisation is vital in addressing behaviours like caterwauling, spraying, and the tendency to roam, which can inconvenience neighbours. Additionally, it serves as a preventive measure against reproductive organ cancers. In households with both male and female cats, sterilisation is crucial to avoid the birth of unwanted litters.
• Mandatory Meshing
  Meshing saves lives. The SPCA sees an average of 6 to 8 cases of cats falling from height each week. These accidents can be easily prevented through meshing of windows and gates. For more information, visit https://spca.org.sg/campaigns/hrs/.
• Keeping cats indoors at all times
  Pet cats should not be allowed to free-roam outdoors as they could get into accidents or cause inconvenience to other members of the community.

These additional provisions will safeguard the well-being of cats and promote their harmonious coexistence by pre-empting neighbourly concerns.

Your voice matters! From now till 1 Feb 2024, share your feedback on the proposed framework here.