
Albany and Surrounds Feral Cat Working Group (ASFCWG)
Mission Statement
“A collaboration of organisations and individuals focusing on the conservation of native wildlife through a coordinated approach to undertaking best-practice feral cat control, addressing the stray cat population issues and promoting responsible pet ownership.”
Endorsed by the ASFCWG Feb 2020

Our project is off and running with a display presented at the famous “sixteen legs” exhibit which had over 150 attendees over the month. This is just the start of infiltrating the information into the community. Our plans are to really hit this hard coming into the new term with events, school visits visiting and chatting with the locals of Manypeaks, Waychinicup, and Two peoples bay to chat about how we can help with any cat issues they might be having, offer solutions to keeping your cat happy at home and listening to the thoughts and suggestions they may have.
Our first presentation was implemented at Albany Tafe to a small but very attentive group. The Conservation and Land Management class had been doing some camera trapping over the last 5 weeks at Lake Seppings and it was, unfortunately, no surprise to see numerous cats on the footage. Of course, we all know that many a cat is allowed out to wander both day and nighttime but what I found a little sad was that the invasive species, rats, foxes, and cats pretty much outweighed the native species seen.
While many people are trying to do the right thing by keeping their cats enclosed, we still have a way to go.
Cats are such an important part of Australian households and can be very effective at reducing anxiety, depression, and loneliness. I know I like nothing more than having my cat snuggled up safely on my bed when I am feeling under the weather. Protecting them from harm by keeping them indoors not only helps wildlife but is so much better for your cat’s health.
Did you know that indoor cats can live up to four times longer than outdoor cats?
By keeping your cat safe at home, you will:
• Decrease risks of cats getting hurt or dying in accidents
• Prevent them from harming or killing other animals
• Give them a better chance to enjoy a longer, healthier life.
How do we keep our cats happy at home?
We meet all their needs, here are a few hints.
Offer a variety of foods in different ways such as hidden treats and treat balls (cat-friendly vegetation is encouraged).
Cats have different water bowl preferences, have a few options available (cats especially like running water).
Cats do not always like to share or interact; a hidey-hole will act as their safe place to keep them calm and happy. While a lookout spot is good for those cats who prefer to be able to stare down on life's happenings. It’s good to have a mixture of both.
A common misconception is cats only need one litter box, cats prefer a clean area away from feeding and sleeping areas. The general rule is one tray per cat, plus one extra.
As you will have probably noticed, cats love to stretch and scratch their claws everywhere. Best to have various scratching options available. It may save your furniture.
If you would like more information on happy indoor cats have a look at this handy booklet https://safeandhappycats.com.au/ or see https://www.ohcg.org.au/albany-and-surrounds-feral-cat-working-group.html for more hints.
Watch this space for our first event on Threatened species and the threats that cats pose to them” which will hopefully be brought to you in August /September. Email jenni.loveland@ohcg.org.au if you would like to go on the upcoming event list.