Stray pussies were the bane of many Riverina households last year, however, Wagga city compliance coordinator Brett Burt said seasonal numbers had thus far been relatively stable.

“Council is currently not experiencing an influx of cats that would be classified as feral,” he said.

Under the Companion Animals Act 1998, council rangers are not permitted to capture roaming cats.

In lieu of enforcement officers, Mr Burt encouraged pet owners to take care of their charges to ensure numbers stay low.

“Council strongly encourages responsible pet ownership for all domestic animals. In the case of cats, to prevent unwanted litters, owners are encouraged to keep cats inside at night and not allow them to roam, and to always desex and microchip the animal,” he said.