Travis County, TX Animal Ordinances: Cat Rules (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.
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.
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?
Can I feed neighborhood strays?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Travis County
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Travis County to another location·View the Texas animal ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.