The District Council of Yankalilla has announced a fully funded cat desexing program in partnership with the National Desexing Network (NDN) and the Dog and Cat Management Board.

This initiative replaces the council’s previous $50 subsidised model with the aim of removing financial barriers that may prevent responsible pet owners from accessing vital veterinary services.

Cat overpopulation has become an increasingly pressing issue across the state, with animal shelters and rescue organisations at capacity. 

This is limiting their ability to accept and rehome cats, which contributes to the growth of unmanaged stray and semi-owned cat populations.

The council says effective cat management starts with prevention and desexing is the most effective, humane and sustainable approach.

Community feedback indicated that the previous subsidised model did not go far enough to remove the financial barrier for households experiencing hardship.

This program provides eligible cat owners access to free desexing services through participating veterinary clinics coordinated by NDN. 

Eligible residents can access the free desexing program by visiting the NDN website and applying for a free desexing voucher online, or by calling NDN Helpline on 1300 368 992.