Singapore outlaws keeping pet cats without licences

Starting today, keeping cats without a license in Singapore is outlawed.

Offenders will be fined 5,000 Singapore dollars or about 30,000 Hong Kong dollars.

Singaporean authorities implemented the cat management framework two years ago, including a pet cat registration system. The two-year transition period ended on Monday, with more than 110,000 cats registered.

Under the new regulations, each public housing unit is allowed to keep up to two cats, and private residences can keep up to three cats or dogs.

If the number exceeds the limit, owners can retain the pets as long as a license is applied for during the transition period.

Authorities say all pet cats must also have microchips for tracking purposes, which aim to ensure owners' responsibilities and facilitate easier return of lost cats.