Stronger Push For Responsible Cat Ownership Likely To See More Councils Require Microchipping & Desexing

Stronger Push For Responsible Cat Ownership Likely To See More Councils Require Microchipping & Desexing Companion Animals New Zealand (CANZ) is excited to see a growing trend of local and district councils introducing bylaws requiring the desexing, microchipping, and registration of cats. The most recent being the Far North District, proposing mandatory “chipping and snipping” in a bylaw beginning consultation on 23 September. New Zealand has 11 regional councils and 67 territorial authorities (of which 6 are unitary authorities, 13 are city councils, and 53 are district councils). Currently, six district councils and three city councils require either desexing or microchipping/registration (or both) in their bylaws. Another two district councils and two city councils are in consultation or decision-making stages (see below for full list).

The new regulations, which are set to come into effect in 2024, will require all cats to be microchipped and registered with the relevant authorities. This means that every cat owner in New Zealand will be responsible for ensuring their feline companion is microchipped and registered. This is a significant change from the previous voluntary approach.

The procedure is generally considered safe and effective, with minimal side effects. However, it is important to note that desexing can have some potential risks and complications, such as infection, bleeding, and anesthesia complications. Desexing is a crucial component of responsible pet ownership and plays a significant role in animal welfare.

Microchipping is a simple procedure that involves implanting a tiny chip under the skin of an animal. This chip contains a unique identification number that can be scanned to identify the animal. Microchipping is a valuable tool for animal welfare, as it can help reunite lost pets with their owners. It is also a valuable tool for animal identification, as it can help identify animals that are lost or stolen.

This statement reflects a growing trend in pet ownership and highlights the importance of microchipping and registration. Microchipping is a process that involves implanting a tiny, electronic chip under the pet’s skin. This chip contains a unique identification number that can be scanned by a veterinarian or animal shelter to quickly identify the pet.

This summary outlines the cat ownership regulations in New Zealand. It highlights the national and local regulations regarding cat ownership, emphasizing the importance of responsible pet ownership. **National Regulations:**

* **Desexing:** All cats in New Zealand are required to be desexed by the age of six months.

The process of registering a cat in New Zealand is a multi-step procedure that involves several key requirements. The process begins with desexing, microchipping, and registration with the NZCAR (New Zealand Cat Register). These steps are crucial for ensuring the welfare of cats and preventing unwanted litters. The specific requirements vary depending on the location.

The summary provided outlines a proposal for animal welfare improvements in New Zealand. The proposal focuses on three key areas: desexing, microchipping, and registration on NZCAR. These measures aim to reduce animal cruelty, improve animal welfare, and prevent stray animals from becoming a burden on society.