San Antonio Municipal Code Chapter 5 treats cats as companion animals subject to rabies vaccination, ACS licensing, and humane care. Free-roaming cats may be impounded, and registered TNR caretakers ear-tip and return community cats under ACS protocols.
Under SAMC Chapter 5 and Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 826, every cat over four months must be vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinarian and tagged with current proof. Animal Care Services operates licensing and impoundment for cats running at large or showing signs of illness or aggression. San Antonio does not enforce a leash law on cats, but owners must prevent nuisance behavior and unsanitary conditions. The city formally supports trap-neuter-return through registered colony caretakers, and ear-tipped TNR cats are exempted from impoundment for being at large. Sick or injured cats can be reported to 311 for ACS pickup. Cat households remain subject to SAMC pet limits.
Failure to vaccinate, license, or control cats can result in citations of up to 500 dollars per violation, impoundment fees, mandatory vaccination, and Class C misdemeanor charges under Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 826.
San Antonio, TX
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See how San Antonio's cat rules rules stack up against other locations.
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