Cats
The cat was introduced to Australia by Europeans. Some of the cat population has become feral, and survives outside by itself by eating wild creatures. Others are kept in homes as domestic pets; however, if they are let outside, they can still kill countless native animals.
This article from the National Feral Cat and Fox Management Coordination and Centre for Invasive Species Solutions explains the history of outdoor cats in Australia, their impact on wildlife, and what you can do to help the native species around your home.
Australian Government (2024). Feral cats | National Feral Cat and Fox Management Coordination. [online] National Feral Cat and Fox Management Coordination. Available at: https://feralcatandfox.com.au/cats/.
Pests are animals that have been introduced to Australia and cause problems for native animals and the natural surroundings. They are a significant management issue for the environment. Why and how are these animals brought into Australia, and how have they negatively affected the landscape? Pests explores the problem of introduced species, as well as explains how some animals have become serious pests and what is being done to control them.
Impact of Cats vs. Foxes
Royal Society of Victoria (2022). Tackling Invasive Species | Articles | Science Victoria | Royal Society of Victoria. [online] Rsv.org.au. Available at: https://www.rsv.org.au/articles/tackling-invasive-species [Accessed 5 Jun. 2025].
Cat Management at Lake Claremont
Find out how cats (along with foxes) are affecting the wildlife at Lake Claremont.
Lake Claremont urban fox management | National Feral Cat and Fox Management Coordination. (2025, March 13). National Feral Cat and Fox Management Coordination. https://feralcatandfox.com.au/resources/lake-claremont-wa/
Should Cats be Banned from Going Outside?
Have you got a pet cat? There is a popular viewpoint in Australia that domestic cats should always be kept inside the house. Watch this video to learn more.
Behind the News (2023). Should Cats Be Banned From Going Outside? - Behind the News. [online] YouTube. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nm9Jw6FjNT4.
Managing Cats in Australia
The Invasive Species Council writes that cats have caused more environmental damage in Australia than any other continent in the world. These are some steps each state and territory has taken to control outdoor cats.
Invasive Species Council (2024). Cats in Australia. [online] Invasive Species Council. Available at: https://invasives.org.au/our-work/feral-animals/cats-in-australia/.