Petme · Singapore

HDB cat rules and licence fees in Singapore

Up to two cats per HDB flat. The licensing transition ended on 31 August 2026.

Cats can now be licensed in HDB flats under the AVS Cat Management Framework. This page sets out the current limits, what a licence costs, how to apply, and how to arrange care for your cat when you travel.

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2 cats
plus 1 approved dog per HDB flat
S$15
one-year licence, sterilised cat
S$29,000
maximum toward eligible vet costs
0%
Service fee for owners

The rules now

What the AVS allows in HDB flats and private homes

In an HDB flat you may keep up to two cats and one dog of an approved small breed. In a private home the limit is three cats or dogs in any mix, with at most one Specified dog. The AVS states a fine of up to S$4,000 for not complying with the HDB rules.

Owners of cats kept before 1 September 2024 had a two-year transition period, from 1 September 2024 to 31 August 2026, to license them. That window has closed. Cats owned or brought in from 1 September 2024 count against the limit for the home they live in.

How to license

Licensing your cat, step by step

Take the Pet Ownership Course

First-time cat and dog licence applicants must complete the AVS Pet Ownership Course before they apply.

Apply on PALS

Submit the licence online through the AVS Pet Animal Licensing System at pals.avs.gov.sg.

Pick the licence length

A sterilised cat costs S$15 for one year, S$25 for two years or S$35 one-time. AVS gives a 10% rebate for GIRO, online or AXS payment.

Care for your cat

Travelling? Your cat can stay home

In-home drop-in visits

A verified Petme sitter visits your flat once or twice a day for feeding, fresh water, litter, and play. Your cat keeps their routine in familiar surroundings.

Protection Plan up to S$29,000

The Protection Plan can contribute up to S$29,000 toward eligible vet costs, which matters given Singapore vet bills.

0% owner fee, cashback

Petme charges pet owners 0% service fee, and you earn automatic cashback on every completed booking.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

How many cats can I keep in an HDB flat?
Up to two cats, plus one dog of an approved small breed, in each HDB flat. Private homes may keep up to three cats or dogs in any combination. The AVS states a fine of up to S$4,000 for not complying with the HDB rules.
Is the cat licensing deadline over?
Yes. The transition period for licensing cats owned before 1 September 2024 ran from 1 September 2024 to 31 August 2026. Cats owned or imported from 1 September 2024 must stay within the limit for the home they live in.
How much does a cat licence cost in Singapore?
For your first three cats or dogs, a sterilised animal costs S$15 for one year, S$25 for two years or S$35 one-time. A non-sterilised animal costs S$90, S$165 or S$230 for one, two or three years. Kittens under five months cost S$15.
How do I license my cat?
Apply online through the AVS Pet Animal Licensing System (PALS) at pals.avs.gov.sg. First-time applicants must finish the Pet Ownership Course before they apply. Every cat and dog in Singapore must be licensed.
Does every cat in Singapore need a licence?
Yes. Under the Animals and Birds (Licensing and Control of Cats and Dogs) Rules 2024, all cats and dogs must be licensed. The AVS explains this is for traceability if a disease outbreak such as rabies happens.
Can a Petme sitter look after my cat while I travel?
Yes. Petme connects you with verified cat sitters for drop-in visits (feeding, litter, play) or overnight in-home care. The Protection Plan can contribute up to S$29,000 toward eligible vet costs, with 0% service fee for owners.

Book a cat sitter

Verified cat sitters in your Singapore district

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Find a verified cat sitter

Drop-in visits or overnight in-home care from background-checked sitters across Singapore. 0% owner fee, S$29,000 Protection Plan.

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