Nairobi County is set to introduce a new regulation requiring cat owners to pay a Ksh.200 license fee for pet ownership.
This measure, outlined in the Animal Control Welfare Draft Bill, mandates that all cat owners obtain a license from the County Government.
According to the draft bill, cats must be licensed, and owners must provide proof that their premises are suitable for cat control.
Licenses will be issued or renewed through an application process. They expire on December 31st each year. As per the current Finance Act, renewal will cost Ksh. 100.
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The bill specifies that the license fee of Ksh.200 is subject to revision and must be paid upon issuance or renewal. To renew a license, owners must notify the Head of County Veterinary Services if the original license is lost or was issued in another jurisdiction.
A free renewal may be granted if the cat has been neutered and proof is provided within twelve months of the original license issuance.
Additionally, every cat over three months old in Nairobi must be vaccinated against rabies annually. The owner must keep a vaccination certificate from a veterinary surgeon at all times.
The bill also includes provisions to ensure neighborhood tranquility. It prohibits allowing a cat to make noise that disturbs the peace of the community. Female cats in heat must be confined to prevent contact with other cats, except those owned by the same person.
If the ownership of a licensed cat changes, the Head of County Veterinary Services must receive a transfer fee of Ksh.100.
