Key Points:

• Cats in Australia are responsible for the deaths of an estimated 2 billion animals each year, posing a significant threat to the country’s biodiversity.
• The government is proposing measures such as cat curfews, indoor mandates, and ownership limits to address the issue and is seeking public support for nationwide implementation.
• With 8.1 million cats in Australia, both domestic and feral, managing the cat population is crucial to protect native wildlife.

Sydney, September 9, 2023 – Australia is grappling with a severe biodiversity crisis caused by its feline population, as cats are estimated to kill a staggering 2 billion animals annually. This ecological menace has prompted the government to introduce a series of measures aimed at mitigating the damage inflicted by cats on the country’s unique wildlife.

Cats, classified as invasive species, are particularly harmful to 57 susceptible native species in Australia. To combat this crisis, the government is proposing several solutions, including cat curfews, indoor cat mandates in suburban areas, and limiting the number of cats allowed per owner. These measures have already been adopted by some local governments and are now being considered for nationwide implementation.

The urgency of these proposals is underscored by the fact that there are currently 8.1 million cats in Australia, a mix of domestic and feral felines. Euthanasia has been employed to manage feral cat populations in various regions, while pet cat owners are increasingly supportive of measures aimed at protecting the environment.

The government’s overarching goal is to curtail the cat population and safeguard Australia’s unique wildlife, which is under constant threat from the feline predators. These proposed solutions have gained significant public support, reflecting the nation’s commitment to preserving its biodiversity.

As Australia faces the ongoing challenge of reducing the negative environmental impact of its cat population, measures to protect native species are being extended nationwide. The government is determined to reduce the devastating impact of cats on its ecosystems and secure a brighter future for its wildlife.

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