Anyone flouting the proposed rules could face a year in prison or a hefty fine (Picture: Getty)

Animal laws are changing in Australia that could see cats being banned from leaving the house and dogs being seized for being too noisy.

Officials in the west of the country are reviewing legislation after complaints about barking dogs and stray cats jumped.

The Western Australia Rangers Association said they want harsher penalties for owners of dogs who attack and want the dogs to be silent.

The changes they are seeking also include stopping people from putting cats outside at night and some are proposing they are banned from going outside completely.


Anyone flouting the rules could get a $10,000 (£5,000) fine or one-year prison sentence.



President Dene Lawrence said: ‘Greater enforcement powers to authorised officers and further amendments to dog barking offences are also required.’

Cat Haven said it is in favour of cats being kept indoors at all times.

Owners of barking dogs could also be targeted under the proposed laws (Picture: Getty)

Chief Executive Roz Robinson said: ‘For their health, it’s much better. They live a longer and happier life.’

A consultation period has been started and will end in August.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the country in Canberra, there are changes being made that would recognise cats and dogs as being ‘sentient beings’.

Those laws could see pet owners being fined $4,000 (£2,000) for failing to exercise their dogs often enough.

It would also mean that people can legally break into vehicles to stop an animal suffering serious injury or death, for example if it is left in a hot car.

There would also be fines for failing to use proper restraints in moving vehicles.

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