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The city of Weiterstadt calls for compliance with the regulations
A cat protection ordinance has been in effect in Weiterstadt since summer 2024. Shortly thereafter, the cities of Griesheim and Pfungstadt also adopted similar regulations. Together with existing ordinances in Darmstadt, Mörfelden-Walldorf, Büttelborn, Langen, and Egelsbach, this creates a nearly comprehensive protection network for free-roaming and pet cats in and around Weiterstadt.
The municipality of Erzhausen has also started the implementation process. The bylaws are expected to be adopted soon, thus closing the gap in regional cat protection measures.
Obligations for cat owners
The cat protection ordinance obliges owners of free-roaming cats to keep their animals under control, regardless of gender
- to have him neutered
- to be marked via microchip
- and to be entered in a pet register
The public order office of the city of Weiterstadt has received several reports of violations in recent months and initiated corresponding proceedings. The individuals concerned have been requested to retroactively implement the prescribed measures and provide proof of compliance.
Goal: To control the cat population
The aim of this regulation is to significantly reduce the number of unneutered and unidentified free-roaming cats. This is a crucial step in controlling the feral cat population in the long term.
In particular, 2023 saw a severe cat influx, which placed a considerable burden on animal shelters in the region – including the Kellerranch.
Cats that cannot be assigned to any household are also regularly sighted in Weiterstadt. They are found, among other places, hanging around
- in fields and meadows
- in forested areas
- in industrial areas
- at municipal facilities such as sewage treatment plants and pumping stations
- as well as in private gardens
These are often unneutered animals. Some of these cats suffer from serious illnesses such as feline AIDS or feline leukemia, which also pose a significant risk of infection for outdoor cats kept in households.
Registration is the responsibility of the vehicle owner
The city administration is therefore once again appealing to all cat owners to conscientiously observe the regulations of the cat protection ordinance. It is important to note: Even if a cat is already neutered and microchipped, the owner must register it themselves. Veterinary practices do not automatically perform this step.
Free registration is easy at
www.tasso.net
and www.findefix.com
Registration also facilitates the quick return of an animal if it runs away or is found injured.
An information leaflet with all relevant information and contact persons of the city administration can be found on the website of the city of Weiterstadt (search term: Cat Protection Ordinance Explanation ).
The city of Weiterstadt thanks all citizens for their support in protecting domestic and stray cats.
(Weiterstadt - Red/PSW)
