Cat Rules: Apex vs Cary
How do cat rules rules compare between Apex, NC and Cary, NC?
Apex and Cary have similar restriction levels.
Apex, NC
Wake County
Wake County treats cats the same as dogs under Ch. 91 — owners must vaccinate against rabies at 4 months and keep current tag displayed at all times per §91.32 and NCGS §130A-185. Unlike dogs, cats are NOT subject to a leash law and may roam at large.
View full Apex rules →Cary, NC
Wake County
Wake County treats cats the same as dogs under Ch. 91 — owners must vaccinate against rabies at 4 months and keep current tag displayed at all times per §91.32 and NCGS §130A-185. Unlike dogs, cats are NOT subject to a leash law and may roam at large.
View full Cary rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Apex | Cary |
|---|---|---|
| Rabies tag | Required §91.32 | Required §91.32 |
| Leash | Not required | Not required |
| TNR allowed | Wake supports | Wake supports |
| Nuisance rule | §91.08 | §91.08 |
| Statute | NCGS §130A-185 | NCGS §130A-185 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Apex FAQ
Can my cat roam outside in Wake County?
Yes — cats are not subject to active leash enforcement. But you remain liable if the cat damages a neighbor's property or creates a nuisance.
Does my indoor cat need a rabies tag?
Yes — NCGS §130A-185 applies to all cats over 4 months regardless of indoor/outdoor status.
Is feeding a feral cat colony OK?
Yes, especially through a TNR program. Once you regularly feed, you may be deemed the owner — keep colony cats vaccinated and ear-tipped to show TNR status.
Cary FAQ
Can my cat roam outside in Wake County?
Yes — cats are not subject to active leash enforcement. But you remain liable if the cat damages a neighbor's property or creates a nuisance.
Does my indoor cat need a rabies tag?
Yes — NCGS §130A-185 applies to all cats over 4 months regardless of indoor/outdoor status.
Is feeding a feral cat colony OK?
Yes, especially through a TNR program. Once you regularly feed, you may be deemed the owner — keep colony cats vaccinated and ear-tipped to show TNR status.
Compare other topics
See how Apex and Cary compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool