RSPCA Victoria has made its formal submission to the Victorian Government’s draft Cat Management Strategy, outlining 17 recommendations for improvement.

Speaking about the strategy RSPCA Victoria’s Head of Prevention, Rebecca Cook said while there was still work to be done, it was fantastic to see this election commitment progressing.

“A holistic cat management strategy was one of RSPCA Victoria’s election priorities endorsed before the 2022 state election, and it’s great to see much needed work progressing in this space,” Ms Cook said.

“While this progress is great there is still a long way to go, and our submission outlines several key areas requiring focus.

“The first priority is the need and opportunity for the Victorian Government to take a leading role coordinating and integrating the activities within the strategy, such as desexing programs, to ensure efficiency and efficacy.

“Specific metrics and targets must be included in the strategy to ensure progress can be tracked and adjusted as needed.

“Vitally though, the strategy must be adequately funded in order for it to be successful.”

The consultation is targeted to cat owners, and RSPCA Victoria hopes further consultation occurs with those involved specifically in cat management, along with the establishment of a working group as soon as possible to provide input into a revised strategy prior to its release.

Read RSPCA Victoria’s submission online here.