Guidelines for Owning Cats for HDB Owners

Good news for cat lovers in Singapore—cat ownership in HDB flats is now officially permitted! As of 1 September 2024, HDB owners can keep up to two cats per unit, per the Housing and Development (Animals) Rules. This change is part of the new Cat Management Framework introduced by the Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS), which also makes it mandatory for all pet cats in both HDB flats and private premises to be licensed and microchipped by the end of a two-year transition period.

Guidelines for Cat Ownership in Singapore

If you’re considering adopting a cat as an HDB owner, it’s essential to understand these guidelines set by AVS and HDB. The Cat Management Framework introduces several important changes to improve the welfare and management of cats in Singapore while balancing cat ownership within HDB premises.

Up to Two Cats in an HDB Flat

Under the new guidelines, HDB residents are permitted to keep up to two cats in their flats. This number is in line with the current regulations that allow up to one dog of an approved breed.

If you live in a private property, you are allowed to keep up to three cats or a combination of cats and dogs.

If you already own more than the allowed number of cats, you can still keep your existing pets if they are licensed during the transition period, provided that their health and welfare are well managed.

All Cats Must be Licensed

All pet cats must be licensed through AVS' Pet Animal Licensing System (PALS).

Starting from 1 September 2024, cat owners will need to apply for a license, and this must be done by 31 August 2026. First-time cat owners will also need to complete a free online course covering basic pet care and responsible ownership before being issued a license. This initiative ensures that cat owners are knowledgeable and prepared to care for their pets properly.

All Cats Must be Microchipped

Microchipping is a compulsory step in order to apply for a Cat Ownership License. Here’s how you can get your cat microchipped:

1. Visit a vet that offers microchipping services.

2. Once your cat is microchipped, get the microchip number from the vet.

3. Register your cat’s microchip in the AVS microchip registry.

Microchipping is an essential part of ensuring your cat’s safety and identifying them if they ever get lost.

Taking Care of Your Cat

While the following processes aren’t explicitly mandated under the Cat Management Framework, they are crucial to being a responsible cat owner.

1. Ensuring Cat Safety

As an HDB resident, it’s important to ensure that your cat is kept in a safe environment. Install mesh, grilles, or other barriers on windows and balconies to prevent your cat from falling. Additionally, when taking your cat out in public, ensure they are under physical control—either in a carrier or with a leash and harness. Responsible cat ownership means keeping your pet safe and minimizing potential disturbances to your neighbours.

2. Dealing with Neighbour Concerns

Pet owners must ensure that their cats do not disturb their neighbours. This means keeping your cat indoors at all times and ensuring it does not become a nuisance through making excessive noise or causing accidents outside. Owners are also responsible for cleaning up after their cats, ensuring that the litter boxes are well-maintained and that the cats do not roam in public spaces within the building. Do ensure the size of the litter boxes allows the cat to fit inside and easily turn around, and that litter is completely replaced at least once every 1-3 weeks depending on the type of litter used. Check out our blog post regarding the suitable litter types for you.

3. Regular Veterinary Care

Routine vet visits are essential to keep your cat healthy. Regular vaccinations, flea control, and health check-ups are crucial, especially in Singapore’s humid climate. If your cat has any medical conditions, such as allergies or respiratory issues, make sure to stay on top of treatment. Online pharmacies like Gaia Pets provide affordable pet prescriptions online, providing competitive prices for medications and treatments for your cat. From flea preventatives (Bravecto, Revolution for Kittens & Puppies, Revolution for Cats, Revolution Plus) to chronic condition management, you can find cheap pet prescriptions online with a vet's prescription, ensuring that your cat stays healthy without straining your budget.

Conclusion

Owning a cat in Singapore’s HDB flats is a responsibility that requires thoughtful planning and care. By adhering to the HDB cat ownership regulations, ensuring proper veterinary care, and using resources like affordable pet prescriptions online, you can offer your cat a long, healthy, and happy life.

Looking to buy cat essentials online at affordable prices? Check out Gaia Pets’ wide range of cat essential products.