Inala Leads Brisbane in Feral Cat Numbers

Inala has recorded more feral cats than any other Brisbane suburb, with more than three times as many trapped there compared with its nearest neighbour.

Cat Complaints on the Rise

Brisbane City Council data shows 804 feral cats were trapped across the city in the past financial year, with Inala alone accounting for 135. The figure placed the suburb far ahead of Richlands, which recorded 46.

Complaints to council included 579 about feral cats and 91 about wandering domestic pets. Council officers also issued 58 infringements to owners whose cats were found roaming.

A Community Concern

Inala’s ranking highlights a broader challenge for families and pet owners in the southwest. The suburb also featured in council’s list of top areas for wandering cats, alongside Acacia Ridge and Bracken Ridge. Officials said most owners were responsible, but unrestrained or feral cats could damage local wildlife and disrupt households.

They stressed that cats must be microchipped before 12 weeks of age or when rehomed, but the RSPCA reported that about 70 per cent of animals arriving at its Brisbane facility were not chipped.

Local Laws and Leash Walking

Brisbane City Council confirmed that residents, including those in Inala, are allowed to walk their cats on a leash, a rule that has long been in place. Cats must still be contained on their owner’s property to stop roaming and protect neighbours and wildlife.

*Photo Credit: Photo by Ahmet Yüksek/Pexels*

The clarification followed a petition calling for cats to have the same walking rights as dogs. That proposal also sought designated areas for leashed cats, plus microchipping and education programs to support responsible ownership.

Impact on Wildlife

The Invasive Species Council has identified feral cats as the single biggest threat to Australia’s mammals, responsible for more extinctions than any other invasive animal. For Inala and surrounding suburbs such as Darra, Runcorn, and Willawong, the concern extends beyond neighbourhood complaints to protecting native species.

Council representatives said cats were part of many families and that responsible ownership was vital to keep pets safe while protecting Brisbane’s outdoor lifestyle.

Published 02-September-2025

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