Cat owners have been celebrating the announcement of funding for homeowners wanting to install catios for their beloved felines. GeoCatch announced this week they will be offering a second round of Catio Rebates in 2024 as part of a successful Community Stewardship Grant application. The funding increases protection for the critically endangered Nguraren (Western Ringtail Possum) and hopes to protect wildlife for future generations.
Following on from the success of the Geographe Bay Catchment pilot catio rebate in 2023, a second round of rebates will be offered to cat owners living within the City of Busselton, Augusta Margaret River Shire, Shire of Capel and Shire of Donnybrook – Balingup.
Cat owners opting to keep their cat contained in a catio will be invited to attend a catio building and design workshop to learn how to build a cat enclosure, including materials and tools required, design, installation process, and how to ensure your cat lives a happy healthy life in its new catio.
GeoCatch project officer Nicole Lincoln was excited to announce the extension of the rebate program. “The rebate aims to assist cat owners with keeping cats safe and healthy on their properties while having peace of mind in knowing where their cats are at all times. Cat owners will have the confidence to allow their cats outside access while still being mindful of urban wildlife, other pets, and neighbours,” said Nicole.
“The critically endangered western ringtail possum is of particular interest in the Geographe Bay Catchment, a species often found in backyards where it can conflict with free-access cats and dogs in urban areas. Cat enclosures are one option for responsible cat owners.”
Dr. Heather Crawford, a cat behaviouralist from Murdoch University, says that cats can be content in an enclosed space if provided with the right stimulus and enrichment activities. “Cats can live happy, healthy lives in catios, provided its design provides mental and physical enrichment, such as climbing posts, plants, and other activities within the enclosure,” explained Dr. Crawford.
Responsible pet ownership is encouraged by the City of Busselton, with all cats over 6 months old must be sterilised, microchipped, and registered. Narelle Smith, from the City of Busselton Animal Care Facility, says the number of cats entering the facility is concerning.
“We see at least three roaming cats arriving here per week. This can increase to 15 cats per week during kitten season. Hopefully, more catios mean fewer cats in the pound,” said Narelle.
If you have considered building a catio and would like to register interest in the rebate, visit the GeoCatch website geocatch.asn.au.
This project is delivered by GeoCatch and City of Busselton with support from South West NRM, through funding from the Western Australian Government’s Community Stewardship Program.
Main Photo: Jason Mansfield (South West Cat Enclosures), Nicole Lincoln (GeoCatch), David Broadman (City of Busselton Ranger), Narelle Smith (City of Busselton Animal Care Facility)
Jason Mansfield (South West Cat Enclosures) with Ray the cat.
