CLAWS OUT: Kenyan feline owners annoyed over 'cat tax'

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Cat lovers in Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, aren’t too happy about a proposed “cat tax.”

Nairobi City County wants cat owners to register their furry friends via an annual license for $2.13 (200 Kenyan shillings) along with proof the animal has its rabies vaccination, the BBC reported.

Besides registration, pet owners would need to be responsible for their cat’s behaviour. The city’s Animal Control and Welfare Bill states owners would have to make sure their cats do not “scream or cry in the manner that disturbs the peace” of other residents.

Cats who are in heat would also be needed to be confined, the proposed bill stated. The legislation aims to improve cat welfare.

There are still some residents that need convincing.

Kenyans don’t take kindly to taxation. The people recently forced the government to cancel a finance bill that would’ve introduced a number of controversial taxes, which was seen by some as an attempt to boost revenue, BBC reported.

Now some are questioning how enforceable the “cat tax” is given the high population of feral or stray felines in the country.

Naomi Mutua, a moderator of a Facebook group for cat lovers, told the BBC that Kenyan officials should’ve have done their homework and checked with cat owners, rescue organizations and veterinary groups before drafting the proposed bill.

Mutua also questioned the rabies vaccinations mandate, stating that while ensuring felines have their shots is a good thing, the goal will be hard to achieve. She said any new law should begin with boosting up the “standards of care that are lacking.”

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Mutua also said the rule about confining a cat on heat would be “restricting them from their natural behaviour.”

Mutua insisted the first premise of any new law should start with improving “standards of care that are lacking.”

Nairobi City County plans to consult with the public about the proposed bill.