Does Travis County, TX have its own cat rules ordinance?

No. Travis County, TX does not appear to have a local cat rules ordinance, Texas state law applies instead. The rules summarized on this page come from Texas Rabies Control Act.

Key Facts Ordinance Text Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources More in Travis County

Travis County, TX Animal Ordinances: Cat Rules (2026)

Few Restrictions

Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified May 2026

Key Facts

Vaccination age: Four months and older
Statute: TX HSC 826.021
License required: No county license
TNR allowed: Yes via partners

Summary

Unincorporated Travis County does not require cat licenses, but rabies vaccination is mandatory under state law and TCAS Chapter 30 rules apply to cats causing nuisance or showing signs of disease.

City-specific rules exist: Austin has its own cat rules rules that differ from Travis County's county-level regulations. If you live in Austin, check the city-specific page instead.

Sec. 826.022. VACCINATION; CRIMINAL PENALTY. (a) A person commits an offense if the person fails or refuses to have each dog or cat owned by the person vaccinated against rabies and the animal is required to be vaccinated under: (1) Section 826.021 and department rules; or (2) ordinances or rules adopted under this chapter by a county or municipality within whose jurisdiction the act occurs. (b) An offense under this section is a Class C misdemeanor. (c) If on the trial of an offense under this section the court finds that the person has been previously convicted of an offense under this section, the offense is a Class B misdemeanor.

Source: Texas Rabies Control ActView official code

Full Breakdown

Cats over four months old must hold a current rabies vaccine certificate per Texas HSC 826.021. TCAS does not impound free-roaming cats absent injury, illness, or aggressive behavior, instead supporting community-cat trap-neuter-return programs in unincorporated zones. Owners remain responsible for nuisance complaints such as repeated property damage or fouling. Cats riding outside vehicles or transported in unsafe carriers may trigger cruelty review. Austin Pets Alive partners run TNR clinics serving the county.

Violations & Fines

Class C misdemeanor for unvaccinated cats, fines up to 500 dollars, mandatory quarantine after bites, and civil nuisance abatement orders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do indoor cats need rabies shots?

Yes. Texas law requires all cats and dogs four months or older to be vaccinated by a licensed veterinarian, regardless of indoor status.

Can I feed neighborhood strays?

Yes if you participate in a TNR program, but persistent feeding without sterilization may draw nuisance complaints from neighbors.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Travis County

Dog Leash LawsSome Restrictions Chickens & LivestockFew Restrictions Veterinary Clinic ZoningFew Restrictions Breed RestrictionsSignificant Restrictions Exotic PetsSignificant Restrictions Wildlife FeedingSome Restrictions Mandatory Spay/NeuterLight Restrictions Pet LimitsLight Restrictions Bird ProtectionLight Restrictions Noise Ordinances: Vehicle NoiseLight Restrictions Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor SoundSome Restrictions Fence Regulations: Retaining WallsSome Restrictions Fire Regulations: Wildfire ZonesSome Restrictions Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage TreesSome Restrictions Hurricane Preparedness: Flood ElevationSome Restrictions

All Travis County rules

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Cat Rules in Cities Across Travis County

Austin, TX Pflugerville, TX