"We have just been informed that Cessnock City Council has changed its protocol in regards to stray cats.

It seems that their holding facility for stray animals is no longer in a position to hold cats. They will scan stray cats for microchips and try to return them back to the owner.

If the cat is not microchipped, they must be taken back to where they were found and released. Now all pet owners need to take accountability for their animals to keep them safe and have them chipped and registered as it's the law and common sense.

Having said that over the years CCC has paid the RSPCA Millions (yes, millions) to facilitate their pound requirements for the LGA and now the RSPCA is no longer taking council pound contracts for Cessnock or Maitland.

This now leaves CCC back at square one with their old animal holding facility that taxpayers are paying for that is completely unsuitable.

If you live in the LGA and haven't microchipped your cat or dog please call Council Customer Services on 02 4993 4100 to book an appointment with a Ranger for free home booking." - credits to Dog Rescue Newcastle.

In my own words, this is very cruel and unethical, and bad for the environment. Cat faeces is extremely toxic to the environment, and not all cats are suited to hunt, and every cat is deserving of a home. Please help, winter is approaching, and they'll be out there in the cold.