Singapore makes cat microchipping compulsory

The Cat Management Framework, introduced by Singapore’s Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS) in May 2024, has come into force.

Under the policy, owners must license their cats by 31 August 2026. After this deadline, keeping unlicensed cats will be prohibited under the Animals and Birds Act.

Microchipping is a prerequisite to obtaining a license in Singapore, a recently adopted measure in the UK as well.

Cat owners can apply for these licenses through the AVS’ Pet Animal Licensing System (PALS). First-time applicants must complete a free online course on basic pet care and responsible ownership.

Pet-friendly housing

The framework allows tenants of Housing and Development Board (HDB) flats to keep up to 2 cats and 1 dog. Private premises can have up to 3 cats or dogs combined.

Cat owners with more than the allowed number can retain their pets if licensed within the 2-year transition period and if their health and welfare are properly managed.

Under the new rules, cat owners must ensure their pets’ safety by installing barriers, such as mesh, grilles or screens, to prevent falls and hazards. When in public, cats should be controlled using carriers or harnesses.

Failure to comply with these regulations may result in fines of up to SGD 4,000 ($3,058/€2,767). Abandoning cats is also a serious offense, carrying penalties of up to SGD 10,000 ($7,646/€6,918) and/or imprisonment for up to 12 months.

Welfare programs

In addition to these regulations, AVS has launched the Pet Cat Sterilisation Support (PCSS) program, which offers free sterilization and microchipping for pet cats from low-income households. This initiative aims to prevent overpopulation and related welfare issues.

The Trap-Neuter-Rehome/Release-Manage (TNRM) program will also begin, partnering with animal welfare groups, veterinarians and community caregivers to manage the cat population island-wide. This program includes enhanced funding for sterilization, microchipping and additional support services.