Houston, TX Animal Ordinances: Cat Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Authority
- Houston Ch. 6; TX HSC 826
- Rabies shot
- Required after four months
- Leash law
- No formal cat leash law
- Impound agency
- BARC Animal Shelter
- Community cats
- TNR encouraged via partners
Summary
Houston Chapter 6 treats cats as companion animals subject to rabies vaccination, BARC licensing, and humane care. Free-roaming cats may be impounded; community cat caretakers should follow trap-neuter-return protocols.
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. Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989. Amended by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 44, Sec. 3, eff. May 5, 1995.Amended by: Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.
Full Breakdown
Under Houston Code of Ordinances Chapter 6 and Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 826, every cat over four months must be vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinarian and wear current proof of vaccination. BARC registers cats and operates impoundment for cats running at large or showing signs of illness. Cats are not subject to formal leash laws, but owners must prevent nuisance behavior, fighting, and unsanitary conditions. BARC supports trap-neuter-return for community cats through partner clinics. Sick, injured, or stray cats can be reported to 311 for BARC pickup. Multiple cat households remain subject to Houston pet limits.
Violations & Fines
Failure to vaccinate, allowing nuisance conditions, or abandoning cats can result in citations, impoundment fees, mandatory vaccination, and Class C misdemeanor charges under Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 826.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to license my cat in Houston?
Can I feed neighborhood stray cats?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Houston
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Cat Rules in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Harris County handle cat rules.