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Corpus Christi, TX Animal Ordinances: Cat Rules (2026)

Light Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Rabies tag required at age
4 months
State rabies law
TX HSC Chapter 826
Community cat program
TNR with ear-tip
Code chapter
CCMC Chapter 6

Summary

Corpus Christi requires owned cats to be vaccinated against rabies and registered with Animal Care Services, and free-roaming community cats are managed through a trap-neuter-return program coordinated with local rescue partners.

VACCINATION OF DOGS AND CATS REQUIRED. (a) Except as otherwise provided by department rule, the owner of a dog or cat shall have the animal vaccinated against rabies by the time the animal is four months of age and at regular intervals thereafter as prescribed by department rule. (b) A veterinarian who vaccinates a dog or cat against rabies shall issue to the animal's owner a vaccination certificate in a form that meets the minimum standards approved by the executive commissioner. (c) A county or municipality may not register or license an animal that has not been vaccinated in accordance with this section.

Source: Corpus Christi Animal Care ServicesView official code

Full Breakdown

Under Chapter 6 of the Corpus Christi Code, cats over four months old must wear a current rabies tag and be registered with the city, matching Texas Health and Safety Code Section 826 rabies control requirements. Owners are responsible for cats damaging neighboring property, and cats running at large can be impounded. Animal Care Services partners with local rescue groups on a TNR program for ear-tipped community cats, who are returned to their colony rather than euthanized when intact. Indoor confinement is encouraged near coastal bird habitat zones.

Violations & Fines

Failing to vaccinate or register a cat brings fines starting at 75 dollars, with impound and boarding fees adding 25 to 35 dollars per day until the owner reclaims the animal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do indoor-only cats need a license?
Yes. Corpus Christi requires every owned cat over four months old to have a current rabies vaccination and city registration tag, even if the cat never goes outside, since rabies can enter homes via bats.
Can I trap a stray cat in my yard?
You can humanely trap and bring the cat to Animal Care Services. Ear-tipped cats are part of the TNR program and will be returned to their colony rather than removed permanently.

Sources & Official References

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All Corpus Christi rules

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