Cats in public places
We love our cats. And we love our wildlife. That's why we have made some changes for the safety of both our cats and our wildlife.
New rules for cats in public places throughout Banyule start 1 February 2025.
New rules
Nightly cat curfew introduced
The curfew starts on 1 February 2025 and applies throughout Banyule until 31 January 2027.
During a cat curfew anyone responsible for a cat will need to:
- restrict the movement of their cats
- be kept on their premises every day from 7pm for 12-hours, until 7am.
A 6-month enforcement amnesty also starts 1 February 2025. Giving cat owners a second chance and temporarily avoid fines while cats and their owners get used to the curfew.
New rules for cats are summarised as:
- a nightly curfew applies everyday at 7pm and ends 12-hours later, at 7am.
- cats are not allowed in excluded locations
Excluded locations
Excluded locations are areas where cats are not allowed at any time.
Excluded locations have been selected to help protect environmentally sensitive areas. Typically native bushland areas and water bodies and their surrounds. They are all listed and we have also mapped each of them.
Excluded areas listing
- Andrew Yandell Habitat Reserve, specifically the fenced areas
- Brown’s Nature Reserve, also known as Alma Brown Reserve
- Banyule Flats, specifically the wetland and Banyule Billabong
- Rockbeare Park, also referred to as a part of Darebin Parklands
- St Helena Bush Reserve, specifically the fenced areas
- Wilson Reserve, specifically the Horseshoe, Reedy and Bailey billabongs
- Warringal swamplands
Entertaining cats
Cost effective ways to keep your cat entertained.
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Enrichment ideas
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Cardboard boxes
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Cats love boxes. Save cardboard boxes from deliveries, cut some holes in them, and create a makeshift maze or hideout. This provides a great hiding spot and an opportunity for your cat to pounce.
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DIY puzzle feeders
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Instead of buying expensive puzzle feeders, you can create your own by poking holes in a plastic container or using a muffin tin. This turns mealtime into a mentally stimulating activity.
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Paper bags
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Many cats enjoy playing in paper bags. Leave a few around the house, and your cat might turn them into a cosy hideaway or use them as a fun crinkly toy.
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Home made toys
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Simple home made toys, like a crumpled-up paper ball or a sock filled with catnip, can provide hours of entertainment.
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Empty egg cartons or toilet rolls
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Cats often enjoy batting around and playing with empty egg cartons and toilet rolls. You can also kibble in them with treats for added interest.
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Scratching posts
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Invest in or make a scratching post. Cats have a natural instinct to scratch, and providing an appropriate outlet for this behaviour can save your furniture.
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Feather wands
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A feather wand is a simple yet effective toy for interactive play. You can find affordable ones at pet stores, or you can make your own by attaching feathers to a string or stick.
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Window perches
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Cats love to watch the world go by. Do it yourself and create a window perch using a sturdy board or even re-purposing an old shelf.
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Top tip
Rotate your cat's toys regularly to keep them interesting. Helping prevent boredom and keeping your cat engaged.
Also tailor these activities to your cat's preferences, gradually introducing new experiences.
Cat enclosure ideas
A cat enclosure, also referred to as a catio, can provide cats with a safe outdoor experience keeping them engaged.
Before building any cat enclosure, consider your cat's safety and wellbeing. Provide shade, water, and rest spots for your cat. Also make sure any materials used are non-toxic, and that the structure is secure enough to prevent escape or injuries.
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Enclosure ideas
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PVC pipe enclosure
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Use PVC pipes to create a frame for the enclosure. Connect them to form a rectangular shape. Attach cat-safe mesh or netting to the frame using zip ties to create walls. Ensure the enclosure is secure and stable.
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Re-purposed materials
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Look for old wooden pallets, wire mesh, or discarded materials to build the structure. Check local classifieds or online marketplaces for free or low-cost materials.
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Re-purpose a playpen
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Re-purpose a large dog playpen by adding a roof made of netting or wire mesh. Ensure the playpen is secure and can withstand outdoor conditions.
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Screened porch conversion
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If you have a screened porch, consider cat-proofing it by adding additional mesh or netting. Ensure all gaps and openings are sealed securely. Ensure the playpen is secure and can withstand outdoor conditions.
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Tarp or shade cloth
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Create a roof using a tarp or shade cloth to protect your cat from the sun and rain. Make sure it is securely fastened and provides adequate shade.
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Hammock catio
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String a hammock between two structures or poles in your backyard. Ensure the area is enclosed with cat-safe mesh to prevent your cat from wandering off.
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Reinforced window screens
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Reinforce window screens and create a secure window box for your cat to enjoy the outdoors. Make sure the screens are sturdy and can withstand your cat's activity.
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Vertical space
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Use vertical space by creating shelves or platforms in your backyard for your cat to climb. Ensure there is a way for your cat to safely access and descend from these elevated spaces.
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Map
Specified cat curfew and excluded locations represented on a map.
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