In a groundbreaking move, the Singapore government has proposed lifting the ban on cat ownership in Housing and Development Board (HDB) flats, marking the end of a 34-year restriction. Senior Minister of State for National Development, Tan Kiat How, unveiled the proposed framework on cat management on December 2, introducing several measures to enhance the welfare and responsible ownership of cats.
Key Changes:
1. Cat Ownership Limits:
1.1 Under the proposed framework, residents in HDB flats will be permitted to own up to two cats per flat. Private residences will have a higher allowance of three cats.
1.2 The limit of two cats per household aims to strike a balance between the preferences of cat owners and non-cat owners, fostering a harmonious living environment for all.
2. Licensing and Microchipping:
2.1 Pet cats will be required to be microchipped and licensed, ensuring traceability and accountability for owners. Failure to comply with licensing conditions will result in penalties similar to those imposed on dog owners.
3. Transition Period:
3.1 A two-year transition period will be provided to cat owners, allowing them to obtain licenses for free during this time. This period will help owners adjust to the new regulations.
4. Safety Measures:
4.1 Cat owners must ensure a safe environment for their pets, implementing precautions such as window grilles or mesh to prevent cats from falling or roaming at heights. This addresses the issue of cat accidents, with reports of cats falling from heights being a significant concern.
5. Community Cat Sterilization:
5.1 Low-income households, including those in public rental housing, will be eligible for free sterilization and microchipping for their pet cats from 2024. This initiative aims to prevent unintended breeding and promote the health and well-being of the animals.
6. Trap-Neuter-Rehome/Release-Manage Program:
6.1 The proposed framework extends the Trap-Neuter-Rehome/Release-Manage program, currently applied to free-roaming dogs, to community cats. This holistic and humane approach aims to manage the community cat population effectively.
Public Engagement:
The proposed changes are open for public input for two months, allowing citizens to provide feedback on the framework until February 1, 2024. This inclusive approach emphasizes the importance of community involvement in shaping regulations that impact residents and their pets.
The potential lifting of the 34-year ban on cat ownership in HDB flats reflects a progressive step towards recognizing the rights of pet owners and promoting responsible pet ownership. The proposed framework not only addresses the concerns of cat owners but also incorporates measures to enhance the overall well-being of cats and maintain a conducive living environment for all residents.
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Reference:
C. (2023, December 4). HDB residents could soon own up to 2 cats per flat as Govt proposes lifting 34-year ban. The Straits Times. https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/hdb-residents-could-soon-own-up-to-2-cats-per-flat-from-late-2024?fbclid=IwAR2Qfr4i2GH4j8kvzTR7BuwR1iYCZW5c9j-fuGy-S5B_ro4TJR1KqL1AxLw
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