Everyone needs to play a critical role in providing for the welfare of cats that are sold or rehomed. This information will help you to meet your responsibilities if you are selling or transferring a pet.

In NSW, it’s illegal to sell, rehome, or give away a cat without meeting certain requirements. These rules apply to all advertisements, including:

• Online platforms (Trading Post, Gumtree, social media)
• Newspapers and magazines
• Posters, flyers, and community noticeboards

Whether you’re a breeder, rehoming organisation, or an individual finding a home for your pet, you must include identification details in every advertisement.

This includes:

• a microchip number, or
• a relevant breeder identification number, such as a
  • breeder identification number allocated under the Companion Animals Act 1998
  • membership number of a recognised breeder organisation under the Companion Animals Act 1998, or
• a rehoming organisation number allocated under the Companion Animals Act 1998.

You can apply for a BIN or a RON through the NSW Pet Registry at: Get started on the NSW Pet Registry | Office of Local Government.

Make sure ownership is transferred

When you are happy you have found a good home for your pet, you need to transfer the ownership to the person buying or adopting your pet. This ensures the new owner becomes legally responsible for the pet. More information about transferring ownership can be obtained from the office of local government.

Consider desexing your pet

Desexing your pet before selling or rehoming is strongly recommended. It helps:

• Prevent unwanted litters
• Reduce certain health risks and behavioural issues