Memphis Chapter 5 requires cats over four months to be licensed and current on rabies vaccination, while community-cat TNR programs operated by PASD partners are recognized and exempted from running-at-large enforcement.
Memphis cat owners must obtain an annual license tied to a rabies certificate from a licensed veterinarian. Unlike dogs, cats are not subject to a strict leash requirement, but cats causing nuisance such as repeated property damage or fouling can be impounded. PASD recognizes Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) colonies managed by approved partner organizations, and ear-tipped community cats returned to managed colonies are exempt from running-at-large penalties. Tennessee TCA §68-8-103 governs rabies vaccination obligations statewide. Indoor-only households are still required to maintain current rabies and license tags.
Civil citations for unlicensed cats, impound and redemption fees for nuisance complaints, and ineligibility for adoption services until outstanding citations are cleared with PASD.
Memphis, TN
Memphis prohibits feeding of wild animals including deer, raccoons, and feral cats in ways that create a nuisance or attract pests. Backyard bird feeders are...
Memphis, TN
Memphis Chapter 5 pairs annual rabies-license registration with microchip requirements for adopted and impounded animals, supporting return-to-owner workflow...
See how Memphis's cat rules rules stack up against other locations.
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