Cat licence in Singapore: what new cat owners need to know (2026)
Every pet cat in Singapore now needs a microchip and an AVS licence. Here is how it works, what it costs, and how we help you with it when you take your kitten home.
Catacure · 16 October 2026
Since 1 September 2026, it is an offence to keep an unlicensed pet cat in Singapore. The free two-year transition period (1 September 2024 to 31 August 2026) has ended, so every cat — bought or adopted — needs a licence from the Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS).
The good news: it is quick to do online, and when you take a kitten home from Catacure we help you with the whole process.
What you need before you apply
- A microchip. Your cat must be microchipped before you can apply. All Catacure kittens are microchipped before they go home.
- The free AVS pet ownership course. First-time cat licence applicants must complete a one-time, free online course before applying. It is short — do it before collection day.
- Singpass. Licences are applied for online through the Pet Animal Licensing System (PALS) at pals.avs.gov.sg.
How much does a cat licence cost?
These are the AVS fees from 1 September 2026 for your first three cats (a 10% rebate applies when you pay online, by GIRO or at AXS):
- Sterilised cat: S$15 for 1 year, S$25 for 2 years, or S$35 one-time — valid for the cat's whole life.
- Not sterilised: S$90 for 1 year, S$165 for 2 years or S$230 for 3 years.
- Kittens under five months: S$15 for a 1-year licence.
Sterilising your cat is by far the cheaper option over its lifetime. When a non-sterilised cat's sterilisation is updated in the system, a 3-year licence is changed to a one-time licence.
How many cats can I keep?
AVS sets limits on how many cats you can keep at home — currently up to two cats in an HDB flat, and up to three cats and/or dogs in private premises. Check the AVS website for the latest rules before getting another cat.
Getting your kitten's licence when you buy from Catacure
- Complete the free AVS pet ownership course before collection day (first-time owners).
- Bring your full NRIC/FIN number and residential address when you collect your kitten.
- We transfer the licence to you through PALS on collection day.
- If your kitten is not yet sterilised, sterilise it at your preferred vet when it is around 6 months old, and ask the clinic to update the sterilisation record in PALS. Send us the certificate and we reimburse part of the cost (S$220 for a male, S$380 for a female — see your sales contract).
Have a question about licensing your kitten? WhatsApp us — we are happy to help.
Fees and rules are set by AVS and can change. Always check the AVS website for the latest information.