Singapore lifts 35-year ban on cats in public housing

Singapore lifts a 35-year ban on keeping cats in public housing. The new regulations, which will come into effect in September 2024, will allow HDB residents to legally keep up to two cats per household, reversing a prohibition that has been in place since 1989.

The decision marks a significant shift in Singapore’s pet ownership policies, which have long allowed dogs but not cats in government-subsidized apartments, where over 80% of the country’s residents live. The original ban was justified by concerns that cats could cause disruptions by shedding fur, defecating in public areas and making noise. However, these concerns were not strongly enforced, and many Singaporeans have kept cats in their homes discreetly.

In recent years, public sentiment has increasingly favored allowing cats in HDB flats, with surveys indicating that around 90% of residents believe cats make suitable and non-disruptive pets. The new policy aligns with this shift in public opinion, recognizing the growing popularity of pet ownership in Singapore.

Under the new framework, cat owners will be required to microchip and license their pets through the Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS). Licensing will be free during a two-year transition period from September 2024 to August 2026, allowing current cat owners to register their pets without penalty, even if they exceed the new limit of two cats per household. After this period, unlicensed cats will be considered illegal, and owners could face penalties like those imposed on dog owners.

To promote responsible pet ownership, first-time cat owners will need to complete a mandatory online course on pet care. Additionally, cat owners will be required to install window grilles or other safety measures to prevent their pets from roaming or falling from heights, considering Singapore’s high-rise buildings.

The new regulations also include provisions to support low-income households, offering free sterilization and microchipping services for their cats. This initiative aims to reduce the risk of unintended breeding and improve the overall welfare of the pet population.