National Code of Practice for the humane control of feral cats

IntroductionThe aim of this National Code of Practice is to provide information and recommendations to vertebrate pest managers responsible for the control of feral cats. Control programs aim to reduce the negative impacts of feral cats using the most humane, target specific, cost effective and efficacious techniques available.This National Code of Practice (CoP) is adopted nationally. Jurisdictions can apply more stringent requirements as long as they retain the principles set out in these codes. The CoP should only be used subject to the applicable legal requirements (including OH&S) operating in the relevant jurisdiction.BackgroundThere is an expectation that animal suffering associated with pest management be minimised. The most humane methods that will achieve the control program’s aims must be used. Consideration of animal suffering should occur regardless of the status given to a particular pest species or the extent of the damage or impact created by that pest. While the ecolog...