Control of true feral cats should not be the emotive subject that it has become.

The feral cat is found in most habitats across Australia, including the snow fall and desert regions. It is responsible for the extinction of some species on islands and is believed to have contributed to the disappearance of many ground-dwelling birds and mammals on the mainland.

It is estimated that there could be at least 400,000 true feral cats in New South Wales and 12 million Australia wide. (NSWNPWS)

Feral cats should not be confused with nuisance cats. Feral cat control is not easy, as the cats are very wary of humans. Trapping is probably the most successful method, although trap shyness is reasonably common. Although other methods of control are used, trapping is the only method we recommend or condone on this site.

Do It Yourself Pest Control - Herbal Sprays

For non-feral cats causing a nuisance on your property, pet stores and vets have a range of cat deterrent sprays. There has been some success with herbal sprays made from chilli, garlic and water or the direct application of pepper to frequented areas.

The downside is that all sprays must be reapplied on a regular basis or after the area has had contact with water.

Humane Cat Traps

Problem feral cats may be captured by using a humane cat trap. There are however, strict guidelines from the RSPCA that need to be followed. The RSPCA in each state should be contacted for their advice and relevant state legislation. Traps should be set at night as feral cats tend to stray more at night.

Trap shyness can be gradually overcome by placing food outside the trap for a few days, and gradually introducing food inside the cage after the cat has become more confident of the surroundings. Commercial tinned cat food, especially those containing fish seem to have good results.

All neighbours must be notified prior to setting the trap, and urged to keep their own cats indoors on planned trapping nights.

If a cat is trapped, you must ensure it does not belong to a neighbour before arranging for its disposal. A person who knowingly traps and disposes of an owned animal may be committing an offence and police may lay charges of theft of chattels against that person. You have a responsibility to determine ownership and return any cat to its rightful owner, if the cat is clearly not feral, but merely a wandering nuisance.

It is unlawful for any cat to be:

• Taken and released into the bush or abandoned at any other location.
• Poisoned or fed substances which may cause the cat any pain or suffering
• Drowned, gassed, clubbed or similarly injured or killed.

To discourage unwanted cats, keep your own cats indoors at night, and do not leave pet food out and available at night for roaming cats.

Under the Companion Animals Act, cats born in NSW after July 1999, and any cat that has changed owners since that time, must be micro-chipped and registered for life. Contact your local Council for details.

Get your own Possum / Feral Cat Traps from Rid Pest Control available at our website, we offer secure online credit card facilities using PayPal and ship your trap to you super fast.

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