Vets support feral cats being added to the Predator Free 2050 Strategy
The New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA) and its Companion Animal Veterinarian Branch (CAV) support the recent announcement that feral cats have been included in the Predator Free 2050 Strategy. This inclusion aligns with our submission during the consultation process.
"Feral cats are already classified as pests in many areas and are managed by the Department of Conservation, local authorities, and conservation groups,” says Dr Sally Cory, NZVA Head of Veterinary Services, Companion Animals.
"Their formal inclusion in PF2050 will align national efforts, improve clarity and support responsible domestic cat management practices such as desexing, microchipping and containment.
"Feral cats, while sentient, pose a serious threat to native wildlife and are implicated in the spread of diseases such as toxoplasmosis. It is critical that humane destruction methods are employed for all pests included in this strategy including feral cats. New Zealand’s Animal Welfare Act recognises that all animals—including companion, stray, and feral cats—are sentient beings.
"We acknowledge the complexity inherent in managing cat populations and advocate for ongoing improvements in control methods for all pest species. Our goal is to see a greater focus on humane, science-led practices for pest control.
"Cats move fluidly between owned, stray, and feral populations, so a co-ordinated, multi-faceted approach is essential. Cat management is complex, but with compassion, science, and collaboration, we can do better for cats, for people and for our environment."
Dr Natalie Lloyd, Immediate Past President of the Companion Animal Veterinarian Branch adds: “We recognise the deeply important roles that companion cats play in the lives of many people. Forty percent of New Zealand households contain a companion cat. We understand that this is a subject about which people feel very passionately.
"However, it is important to also acknowledge that feral cats hunt in order to survive, not out of malice. We therefore ask for evidence-based and objective discussion on this topic. This acknowledges the perspectives of all parties working together towards a solution. By doing this, we can strive for a future where New Zealanders can enjoy the companionship of cats while also protecting our precious native wildlife.”
NZVA and its CAV Branch, as members of the National Cat Management Group, have been advocating for the inclusion and supports the previous work of the Group which has set out a humane, coordinated, and nationally consistent path forward for managing cats in Aotearoa New Zealand.
"NZVA strongly supports a national framework that reflects this, ensuring all policies are grounded in animal welfare science and ethics, minimising harm, promoting responsible ownership, and safeguarding New Zealand’s biodiversity.”
ENDS
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