If you own or plan to own a cat in Nairobi, you will be required to pay a fee of Ksh 200 per cat every year if the proposed Nairobi City County Animal Control and Welfare Bill 2024 is approved in its current form.
Nairobi County government says the proposal is to ensure that all domesticated cats are kept in conditions that support their well-being including being up to date with the required vaccinations.
Under the proposed county by-law, it will be prohibited for any person to own a cat in Nairobi County without obtaining a license in respect of the cat, subject to paying the applicable fee of Ksh 200 every year.
Those domesticating cats will need to present proof of their cat’s rabies vaccination and pay the nominal fee to the Nairobi County government as part of a measure to enhance public health and safety by reducing the risk of rabies and other animal-related issues.
In addition to licensing requirements, the bill has provisions to address nuisance issues and ensure the cats to scream in a manner that disturbs the peace and comfort of neighbours.
Additionally, owners of female cats will be mandated to confine them to a building or enclosure to prevent contact with other cats except those belonging to the same owner to control their population and prevent unwanted interactions between cats.
Further, the bill prohibits livestock on road reserves in the city centre and in unregistered shelters, with poultry keepers required to be registered and certified.
If the bill sails through, those owning horses and donkeys will be required to adhere to additional standards, including limiting working hours to six hours per day with adequate breaks and nutrition.
Non-compliance with these regulations will result in fines of up to Ksh 10,000 shillings, imprisonment for up to one month, and forfeiture of livestock to the county government.
The bill is set for public participation from Friday next week.
