Animals and pets

24-hour cat containment

As of 1 January 2025, Swan Hill Rural City Council will implement a 24-hour cat containment order. This means all cats must remain confined to their owner’s property at all times unless appropriately restrained in a carrier or on a leash.

Full enforcement of this order will begin on 1 July 2025.

The order aims to protect native wildlife, reduce nuisance behaviour such as spraying and fighting, decrease the feral cat population, and safeguard cats from harm.  Owners are encouraged to use cat enclosures or cat-proof fencing to comply with this requirement.

For more information about the 24-Hour cat containment order visit our Let's Talk website.