Starting August 3, 2026, Singapore will launch a two-year pilot scheme that permits approved cat fosterers to house up to six cats in three-room or larger HDB flats. Those living in private premises will be allowed to keep up to 10 cats. This initiative, announced by the Animal & Veterinary Service, aims to recognize the vital role fosterers play in managing community cats by providing temporary homes for those that are sick, injured, or awaiting adoption. The cap on cat numbers applies to the total count of both personal pets and foster animals within a household.
To participate in the scheme, applicants must demonstrate experience in animal care, possess the necessary financial resources, and maintain a clean record free of neighbour disputes or animal welfare complaints. All cats in the household must be sterilised to prevent unintended breeding, with kittens required to be sterilised by six months of age or within two months of being fostered. The government will waive licensing fees for approved fosterers throughout the duration of the pilot, which is scheduled to conclude on July 31, 2028.
This policy shift follows extensive public engagement conducted since 2023, involving feedback from residents, cat owners, and animal welfare groups. By formalizing the role of fosterers, authorities hope to reduce the number of free-roaming cats in the community and mitigate potential disamenities. The pilot serves as a structured approach to balancing animal welfare needs with the practical constraints of high-density public housing. Following the two-year trial, agencies will evaluate the scheme's effectiveness and community feedback to determine the long-term approach for fosterer recognition.