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Cat lovers in Nairobi, Kenya have been twitching over the threat of what is perceived as a “cat tax”. The proposal comes via the Nairobi City County which wants all cats to be registered by their owners – which some are moaning is a “cat-astrophe”.
It would require cat owners in Nairobi to purchase an annual license - costing 200 Kenyan shillings ($1.50; £1.20) along with proof that the animal has had a rabies vaccination.
Not only that, but “purrents” - as cat owners are known - would need to take responsibility for their furry friend’s behavior, and we all know that a cat does not take direction well.
According to the city’s Animal Control and Welfare Bill, they would have to ensure their pets do not "scream or cry in a manner that disturbs the peace" of residents. They would also be required to confine cats in heat.
The proposed legislation is aimed at improving cat welfare, but some jaundiced city residents need convincing. Some Kenyans are raising questions about how enforceable it is, given the high population of stray or feral cats.
For the head of the Kenya Society for the Protection and Care of Animals (KSPCA), Emma Ngugi, the draft legislation is a welcome move given that animal welfare in the city is a “huge problem”.
But licenses, she feels, are probably not the answer as people may not want to claim ownership of cats. Some people may end up throwing out their cats if they are forced to pay for them, which would defeat the purpose of the bill.
Under the proposed bill, cat owners who fail to comply with the licensing and welfare standards would be guilty of an offense and liable to penalties including jail terms.
Lewis Musonye
