Busselton leads the way in catio transformations

GeoCatch has celebrated the six-month mark of its catio rebate program, and says City of Busselton residents are leading the region in adopting the installation of catios to safeguard local wildlife.

A $200 rebate is offered to residents who build a ‘catio’, a safe outdoor space for their cats that helps protect native wildlife like birds and small mammals.

The program aims to protect native birds and marsupials such as the critically endangered Western Ringtail Possum, while giving domestic cats a stimulating outdoor environment to enjoy.

GeoCatch said it was on track to meet its goal of 40 catios per year over the next two years, thanks to strong community support.

GeoCatch project officer and catio expert Nicole Lincoln said the program offered a win-win solution for pet owners and the environment.

“Every catio built helps us reach our conservation goals while keeping your cat safe and happy,” she said.

Since the program’s launch, 33 cat owners have registered to participate, with 15 catios installed across the City of Busselton and surrounding areas.

Busselton has led the way in uptake, followed closely by residents in the Augusta Margaret River Shire, Shire of Capel, and Shire of Donnybrook-Balingup.

The City of Busselton has installed a demonstration catio at its Animal Care Facility, where impounded cats can spend time while awaiting collection from their owners, who can see first-hand what a well-designed and constructed catio looks like including all the essential features to ensure cats are comfortable while contained.

Vasse locals Leonie and Barry recently installed a catio using the $200 rebate to get them started, and have been impressed with how quickly birds have returned to their yard.

“Since installing our catio I see more birds, like blue wrens and honeyeaters,” Leonie said. “Our cat loves looking out from high points in the catio, but can’t get to the birds.”

For more details on building a catio or applying for the rebate, visit the GeoCatch website.

The project is delivered as part of the Pets Away, Possums Play campaign with funding from the State NRM Program.