Cat owners in Nairobi County may soon be required to obtain a license to legally own their pets, according to a new proposal under the Animal Control Welfare Draft Bill. The proposed law mandates that all individuals must pay a Ksh. 200 fee for a license, which will be issued by the County Government to confirm legal possession of their cats.
The bill stipulates that cat licenses will be issued or renewed upon application, with owners required to prove that their premises are suitable for keeping cats. The licenses will expire on December 31st each year, with renewal costs set at Ksh. 100, as per the current county Finance Act. The bill also allows for the revision of fees in future versions of the Finance Act.
A notable provision in the bill states that a renewal license may be issued for free if medical proof is provided that the cat has been neutered within twelve months of the original license issuance.
Additionally, the bill requires that all cats over three months old be vaccinated against rabies annually, with a certificate of vaccination to be retained by the owner.
Interestingly, the bill includes provisions to maintain neighborhood peace. It prohibits cat owners from allowing their pets to “scream or otherwise cry in a manner that disturbs the quiet, peace, rest, enjoyment, comfort, or convenience of a person in the neighborhood.” Owners of female cats in heat must also confine them to prevent contact with other cats, except those belonging to the same owner.
The bill further stipulates that any change in ownership of a licensed cat will require the payment of a transfer fee of Ksh. 100, to be processed by the Head of County Veterinary Services.
This proposal aims to regulate pet ownership in Nairobi, ensuring proper care and management while addressing public health and nuisance concerns.