Cat owners in Singapore who have not licensed their pets could face fines of up to S$5,000 from 1 September 2026, as the transition period for the country’s mandatory cat licensing rules comes to an end.
The Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS) has confirmed that keeping an unlicensed pet cat will now constitute an offence under the Animals and Birds Act.
The two-year transition period began on 1 September 2024, giving cat owners time to microchip their pets and obtain the necessary licences without enforcement action for non-compliance.
More than 111,000 cats have been licensed
The number of licensed pet cats has increased significantly during the transition period. More than 111,000 pet cats in Singapore have now been licensed, according to an update shared by Minister of State for National Development Alvin Tan.
That figure represents a substantial increase from July, when Tan said around 66,000 pet cats — approximately seven in 10 cats in Singapore — had been licensed.
AVS said it will investigate feedback concerning cat owners who have not complied with the licensing requirements. Enforcement action may be taken against those found to be keeping unlicensed cats.
Owners who have yet to complete the process can apply through AVS’ Pet Animal Licensing System. Their cat must first be microchipped by a licensed veterinarian, while owners are also required to complete a one-time online pet ownership course.
The licensing process is currently free, making it easier for remaining cat owners to comply before facing potential penalties.
Limits on the number of cats allowed
The end of the transition period also means new licence applications will be subject to existing pet ownership limits.
For households living in HDB flats, the maximum number is two cats. For private residences, residents can keep up to three cats and dogs in total.
However, AVS has made provisions for households that already had more pets than the permitted limit during the transition period.
Owners who licensed their existing cats during the transition period may continue keeping them, provided they are able to ensure the animals’ health and welfare are properly looked after.
The authorities have also reminded cat owners that licensing is not the only responsibility involved in keeping a pet.
Owners are expected to provide their cats with a safe environment and take reasonable measures to protect them from potential hazards.
Cat owners reminded about safety requirements
This can include installing mesh, grilles, screens or other suitable barriers to prevent cats from escaping or falling from height.
The measures are particularly relevant for residents living in high-rise housing, where an unsecured window or balcony can pose a significant risk to pets.
Cat owners must also maintain physical control of their pets when taking them into public areas. Cats should not be allowed to roam freely outside.
AVS said owners can use carriers or harnesses when bringing their cats outdoors.
Meanwhile, community cats are also being managed through the Trap-Neuter-Rehome/Release-Manage (TNRM) programme. More than 4,700 community cats have undergone the programme, according to Tan.
For Singapore households, the new enforcement rules mean cat licensing is now an important part of responsible pet ownership. Owners who have not yet licensed their cats should complete the necessary requirements as soon as possible to avoid potential enforcement action and fines of up to S$5,000.