FELINE VACCINE SHORTAGE IMPACTS CAT TRAP SERVICES

A nationwide shortage of vaccines for cats has resulted in a pause to Council cat-trapping services, to help avoid the spread of preventable disease.

With supplies of essential cat vaccines critically low until next year, Council officers are not able to offer Council’s cat trapping service to community members.

Yarra Ranges Mayor, Sophie Todorov, said the vaccine shortage is having an impact across the country.

“While cat vaccine stocks are low, there is a very high risk of animals spreading illness to each other – especially when they’re in close confines, like in boarding and at AnimalAid,” Cr Todorov said.

“Until supplies improve, to reduce the risk of unnecessary and dangerous illness, we’re working with our partners at Animal Aid to reduce the number of cats entering the service, and for this reason we’re pausing non-essential cat trapping.

“We know this will have an impact on neighbours who have a nuisance cat issue, and for owners who have a beloved family member missing. I strongly encourage cat owners to take extra precautions to prevent wandering, and keep their pet confined to their property at all times.

“We will continue our work with AnimalAid to support them during this time.

“If you need to surrender a cat, please supply vaccination documentation, so shelters can prevent duplication vaccinations, and use their supplies wisely. If you’re struggling to afford pet food, there are social support groups available.

“Adopting a cat, ensuring it is desexed, and keeping it indoors are best-practice tips for having a cat at any time, but this is of particular importance now.”

Council will update its website, and notify pet owners, as the situation changes.