Too many household moggies are ending up in Wellington Shire Council’s shelter without any identification to reunite them with their loving owners.

Within the municipality of Wellington, 70% of dogs are microchipped and registered, compared to just 22% of cats.

Wellington General Manager Development John Websdale said the shire’s shelter often has cats who can’t be taken home again because they don’t have any identification.

“Cats are independent creatures and this makes us believe that our feline companions are able to fend for themselves,” he said.

“We don’t fret if our cats are out and about or don’t come home for a couple of days, but the reaction is very different if our dog wanders off.

“Too many cats come through our shelter that have been well cared for, they have clearly been loved, but they have zero identification.

“We want everyone to recognise the importance of microchipping and registering their cats.”

Penalties of $317 apply for failing to register your pet, in addition to release and registration fees payable when collecting your cat from the shelter.

In some cases, if your pet is found close to home, Council rangers will bring them back home for you.

“When your pet is happily at home, it may not feel like a priority, but we assure you, when your cat has ventured away, you will be relieved that they were able to be identified and that you could be quickly contacted,” Mr Websdale said.

For information about how to register your pet, visit the Animal Registration page on our website.

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