If you’re a cat lover planning to make Singapore your home, you’re in for a treat! The Lion City is the perfect haven for feline enthusiasts.

However, before you bring your purry friend along for the adventure, it’s essential to understand the legal guidelines, choose the right breed, and discover the best cat-friendly spots in town.

This comprehensive guide will provide you with all of that information!

Legal Guidelines for Owning a Cat in Singapore

Before welcoming a feline friend into your home in Singapore, it’s essential to ensure your cat is vaccinated against rabies, microchipped for identification purposes, and sterilized if it hasn’t already been spayed.

Vaccinating Your Cat

Are you the kind of pet parent who prioritizes your furry friend’s health above all else? Then, ensuring your cat receives timely rabies vaccinations is a must!

Whether your cat is a playful house cat or an adventurous tomcat exploring the neighborhood, vaccination is essential for their health and safety. 

Failure to comply with this regulation can result in a hefty fine of up to S$1,000 if your cat’s vaccination records are not up to date within a year.

Microchipping Your Cat

Cats are naturally curious and may wander off if unsupervised, making it challenging to keep track of their whereabouts at all times, especially in a bustling city like Singapore.

With a microchip implanted under your cat’s skin, containing vital information such as your contact details, you can know that your furry friend can be easily identified and returned to you if they ever get lost.

Microchipping is not just a recommendation but also a legal requirement in the city.

According to pet laws in the city-state, all kinds of pets must be registered and microchipped under the Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA). 

To get started, you’ll need to gather some essential documents, including proof of ownership, such as a purchase receipt or adoption certificate, and documentation of your cat’s microchip implantation and vaccination records.

Once you have all the necessary papers, you can complete your pet cat registration and microchipping application form on the AVS website or at their office. 

Sterilizing Your Cat 

Sterilizing your cat is not just about preventing unwanted litters – it also plays a crucial role in promoting the overall well-being of your feline companion.

Spaying or neutering your cat helps prevent reproductive-related health issues, such as certain types of cancer and infections.

Moreover, it reduces behaviors associated with mating, such as roaming, spraying, and aggression, making your cat a happier and more content companion.

Failing to sterilize your cat can result in a hefty fine of S$1,000 if you’re caught using your unsterilized feline or tom cat for breeding purposes.

This fine discourages irresponsible breeding practices, which can contribute to the overpopulation of cats and strain on resources for managing stray animals.

What are some HDB-approved cat breeds in Singapore?

Cats have no restrictions in HDB flats in Singapore. Cat owners enjoy more freedom in choosing their preferred breeds to keep in their homes in the city-state.

How many cats are allowed in HDB Flats in Singapore?

Under the current regulations governing pet ownership in HDB units in Singapore, you can keep up to two cats. However, depending on the unit manager and further agreement, you may be allowed to keep more.

Imposing this maximum number of cats allowed per household aims to prevent overcrowding and reduce the potential nuisance caused by excessive pets.

Can you bring your cat to a park in Singapore?

You can take your cats to public parks in Singapore. However, you must put them in a breathable and comfortable cat carrier to ensure their safety during your park visit.

This precautionary measure keeps your cat secure in case of dog encounters in the park.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cat Breed to Keep in Singapore

Climate Suitability

When choosing a cat breed in Singapore, one crucial factor to consider is climate suitability. The city-state’s tropical climate can challenge certain breeds, particularly those with long or thick fur.

Opting for breeds better suited to warmer climates can ensure your cat remains comfortable and happy in the local weather conditions.

Siamese, Bengal, Burmese, and Singapura are known to thrive in the country’s heat because of their short coats and heat-tolerant nature.

Noise Level

When considering which cat breed to welcome into your home in Singapore, consider factors such as noise level.

Think about your own tolerance for noise and how it might impact your neighbors. 

Certain breeds, like Siamese cats, are famous for their loud vocalizations, which can be endearing to some but disruptive to others.

If you value peace and quiet, avoid breeds known for their chattiness and opt for quieter breeds, like the British Shorthair, Ragdoll, or Persian.

Grooming Needs

The combination of high temperatures and humidity in Singapore can contribute to increased shedding and skin issues in some breeds, making it even more crucial to consider grooming needs when choosing a feline companion.

Some breeds, such as the short-haired Abyssinian or Siamese, may require less frequent grooming sessions, primarily occasional brushing to keep their coats sleek and shiny.

On the other hand, breeds with thicker coats, such as the Maine Coon, Ragdoll, or Persian, may be more prone to shedding and matting in the country’s climate, requiring extra attention to grooming to keep their coats healthy and free from tangles.

Cats with sensitive skin, such as the Siamese or Sphynx, may require specialized grooming products and care to prevent irritation and maintain optimal skin health in humid conditions. 

The cost of an introductory cat grooming session in the city-state can vary, ranging from approximately $S67.23 to $S201.68 or even more.

These sessions usually include essential grooming services such as a bath, brush-out, nail trim, and ear cleaning to keep your feline friend looking and feeling their best.

Initial Costs for Your First Cat in Singapore

Acquiring a new purry companion in Singapore involves initial expenses typically falling from $S200 to $S300.

These costs include basic veterinary vaccination fees and necessary cat essentials.

Here’s a handy checklist to ensure you have everything you need on your first day as a cat purrent:

• Cat litter sand and litter box: $S30 – $S80
• Scratching posts or pads: $S15 – $S50
• Cat food, water bowls, collar, and scratching posts: $S100 – $S150
• Cat toys for entertainment: $S5 – $S30
• Cat carrier for vet visits or travel: $S30 – $S100
• Microchip Registration: $S30 – $S60

Ongoing Expenses of Having a Cat in Singapore

Owning a cat in Singapore involves several ongoing expenses, including essentials like food, treats, litter sand, deworming, and grooming care. These costs typically amount to $S250 per month.

Here’s a breakdown of estimated cat maintenance costs in Singapore:

• Vaccinations: $S100 – $S200 (Per year)
• Deworming: $S20 – $S40 (Every 3 to 6 months)
• Food and treats: $S100 – $S150 (Per month)
• Litter Sand: $S80 to $S90 (Per month)
• Grooming Care: S$60 – $S90 (Per session) 

Best Cat-Friendly Cafes in Singapore

Looking for a purrfect spot to relax and unwind with your kitty cat? We’ve listed some of the cat-friendly cafes in Singapore.

Please note that these cafes don’t offer pet-friendly snacks; you can only bring your feline friend.

The Cat Cafe

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Are you the kind of person who enjoys sipping coffee while surrounded by adorable cats? Then, The Cat Cafe is where you can indulge in your love for caffeine and feline companionship!

Upon entering the cafe, you’ll be greeted by the sight of playful felines lounging on comfortable furniture or frolicking in designated play areas.

The diner’s amenities include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and a selection of beverages and snacks to enjoy while mingling with the resident cats. 

Sun Ray Cafe

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When it comes to cat-friendly cafes in Singapore, Sun Ray Cafe is another standout destination!

The cafe offers a range of cat-friendly activities for cat owners. From designated play areas to interactive toys, there’s plenty to keep your feline friends entertained while you enjoy a cup of coffee and sweet treats!

The best part is that it allows cats outside the carrier. Well-behaved purry cats are welcome to roam freely under the watchful eye of their owners.

Wildseed SG

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Are you looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city? Wildseed SG provides the ideal setting for a quiet afternoon spent in the company of friends, family, and furry companions. 

As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by the soothing sounds of nature and the inviting aroma of freshly brewed coffee.

You’ll be delighted to know that well-behaved cats are welcome to roam freely under your watchful eye. Its staff are even more than willing to pet and play with your feline!

W39 Bistro and Bakery

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W39 Bistro and Bakery is a delightful destination for cat lovers seeking a cozy atmosphere and delectable treats in Singapore

Its staff understands the importance of making four-legged visitors feel right at home, ensuring a pleasant experience for all. 

With its inviting ambiance, cat-friendly amenities, and welcoming staff, it’s the purrfect spot for a relaxing day out with your beloved whisker!

Bee’s Knees

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Known for its inviting ambiance and welcoming atmosphere, Bee’s Knees provides a cozy setting where cat owners can enjoy delicious food and beverages while spending quality time with their furry companions.

With comfortable seating and a relaxed vibe, this cafe offers the perfect backdrop for a leisurely morning or afternoon coffee vibe with your cat by your side. 

The staff at Bee’s Knees are known for their friendliness and attentiveness to patrons and their cats, making sure everyone feels welcome and comfortable throughout their visit. 

With their fluffy coats, mesmerizing eyes, and quirky personalities, it’s no surprise that cats are one of the most beloved pets in Singapore.

They’re more than just pets; they’re captivating companions, each with their own unique charm. From their playful antics to their soothing purrs, cats can brighten even the dullest days and bring joy to our lives.

We hope you’ll always remember this guide to keep your cats having the best and most comfortable life in the Lion City!