Predator Free 2050 Strategy adds feral cats; SPCA says management must be humane

SPCA acknowledges the government's ambition to protect native wildlife, while highlighting the importance of ensuring the management of feral cats, and other species included in the strategy, is humane – meaning it minimises pain and suffering and avoids distress.

“We support the goal of protecting native biodiversity and want the Government to ensure feral cat management is humane and aligns with societal expectations,” says SPCA Senior Scientific Officer Dr Christine Sumner.

“Funding must prioritise the development of more humane tools for the lethal management of animals listed in the 2026-2030 Predator Free 2050 Strategy, recognising that how animals are killed matters, and unnecessary suffering is not acceptable even in pest control.

“We need a comprehensive approach that addresses the whole cat population, and we commend the Department of Conservation (DOC) for recognising the need to address overpopulation of cats in our communities alongside actions for feral cats.

“Focusing on feral cats alone will not deliver results without tackling the root causes of cat overpopulation. New Zealand can’t eradicate feral cats without addressing the potential contribution to the population from companion and stray cats.

"It’s like bailing a boat without fixing the hole - we need to make sure more water isn’t coming in.

“We want all cat owners to desex, microchip and keep their cats at home by following SPCA’s guide: keeping your cat safe and happy at home,” says Dr Sumner.

Around 40% of New Zealand households own companion cats and the majority of these cats roam freely. Every cat that is not desexed and freely roams or goes missing can contribute to stray and feral cat populations in the future.

"We want New Zealand’s native species to thrive, and we also have a responsibility to protect the welfare of all animals, including the feral cats included in the updated strategy. We need them to be managed humanely."

SPCA is recommending:

• Funding for research into more humane methods of managing feral cats and other wild animals than currently exist.
• An approach that acknowledges feral, stray and companion cats are connected - and that managing one without the others won’t work.
• Significant investment in subsidising the cost of desexing companion and stray cats - cost is the main barrier for owners.
• National cat management legislation developed with input from the animal welfare sector as well as conservation.
• Ongoing community engagement that respects the strong bonds people have with their cats.

SPCA submitted to the Predator Free 2050 public consultation in 2025. Our submission called for an ethical framework for wild animal management, stronger welfare standards for pest control methods and greater investment in non-lethal and more humane approaches.