Cat Safety & Predator Control FAQ
We often get questions about our predator control programme, responsible cat ownership, and how locals can help. Here’s a handy FAQ to cover the essentials:
Why does Whakatāne Kiwi Trust run predator control operations?
Our mission is to protect indigenous species from introduced predators. Unowned cats, rats, stoats, dogs and other pests are a serious threat to these taonga species. Predator control keeps our ngahere biodiversity balanced and thriving.
Is it legal to trap cats?
Yes — in New Zealand, unowned cats can legally be trapped as part of predator control programmes.
● Live traps can be set within 150m of a residence with landowner permission, or beyond 150m without. These traps are checked daily.
● Our live trapping complies with the Animal Welfare Act and is focused on unowned cats that threaten wildlife.
Important: We do not target owned, domestic cats.
What happens if my pet cat is caught in a trap?
If your cat is microchipped, we can quickly identify and return them safely to you. This is why we strongly encourage all cat owners to microchip their pets.
Our AI-operated AT230 traps even scan for microchips before activating, preventing harm to registered domestic cats.
What types of traps does Whakatāne Kiwi Trust use?
We use a combination of safe, targeted traps in our reserves and bush areas:
● Live traps: Humane cage traps for unowned cats.
● DOC250 traps: Designed for rats and stoats, placed over 200m from homes. These can fatally injure a cat if entered.
● AT230 AI traps: Automated night-time traps with microchip scanners. Domestic cats with microchips won’t trigger these traps.
We prioritise trap placement well away from residential areas and work with landowners when needed.
What is the ‘Mink Police’ system?
The Mink Police is a remote notification system for our live traps. It gives us a daily alert to advise of the trap status. It also alerts our team when a trap is triggered, so we can respond quickly to check the trap and identify any captured animal.
Why is microchipping my cat so important?
Microchipping ensures your pet’s safety.
● If your cat is found in a trap, we can scan the chip and contact you immediately.
● It prevents domestic cats from accidentally being caught in predator traps with microchip readers.
● It increases the chance of being reunited if your cat goes missing.
Microchipping is a simple, safe procedure offered by all local vets.
Why should I desex my cat?
Desexing prevents unwanted litters and helps reduce the population of unowned, stray cats that threaten native wildlife. It also reduces your cat’s risk of roaming, fighting, and contracting diseases like toxoplasmosis.
What is toxoplasmosis and why is it a concern?
Toxoplasmosis is a disease caused by the Toxoplasma gondii parasite, spread through contact with infected cat faeces.
● It poses health risks to other animals, including kiwi and humans (particularly pregnant women).
● In one local case, a kiwi infected with toxoplasmosis lost the ability to move properly and was fatally struck by a car.
Keeping cats healthy, vaccinated, and contained reduces this risk.
What is a catio and why should I consider one?
A catio or cat fencing is a secure outdoor enclosure for cats, giving them access to fresh air and sunshine while keeping them — and wildlife — safe.
They come in many sizes and designs to suit different homes and backyards, and help prevent roaming, fighting, and hunting.
How can I help protect wildlife while keeping my cat safe?
Great question — here’s how:
✅ Desex your cats
✅ Microchip them and register your companion animal with the NZ animal registry https://www.animalregister.co.nz/
✅ Vaccinate against common feline diseases
✅ Keep cats indoors at night
✅ Build a catio or use secure fencing to keep them on your property
✅ Support local predator control efforts
How do I get involved with Whakatāne Kiwi Trust?
We’d love your support!
You can volunteer, donate, or spread awareness through your whānau and community. Sign up on our website to express your interest.
