Taking ownership

Once you have ensured the cat is not already owned (see Is it unowned?), and your council has allowed you to adopt the cat (or kitten), there are a number of activities you need to do:

• Have your cat or kitten’s health checked by a veterinarian, if this has not already been done. Your vet will explain about any vaccination, worming or flea control requirements.
• Desex your cat or kitten, if this has not already been done. See Desexing for more information.
• Register your cat or kitten (at 3 months of age or older) with your local council, and have it permanently identified with a microchip.
• Feed an adequate balanced diet (seek advice from your veterinarian if necessary), and provide clean cool water at all times.
• Provide a cosy dry sleeping area.
• For its own safety, keep your cat or kitten on your property at night, and preferably also during the day. See Confining cats for more information.
• Check with your local council if any other cat ownership requirements apply in your area (for instance, limits on the number of cats allowed per property without a permit, requirements to keep cats contained to the property).

When adopting a kitten, it is important to socialise and train it to become a good pet. An adult cat may also require training, particularly if it has behavioural problems. See Cat training for more information.

Responsible cat ownership information is available from many sources, visit More information for details.