Hawaii Lawmakers Aim to Address Feral Cat Crisis

Proposed bills target overpopulation through mandatory spay/neuter laws and import restrictions.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Hawaii's state legislature is considering several bills this session to address the growing feral cat crisis across the islands. The proposals aim to curb overpopulation by requiring cats over 5 months old to be spayed or neutered, as well as mandating sterilization documentation for imported dogs and cats. While the bills represent a solid start, critics argue the legislation needs to go further in addressing existing feral colonies and the practice of illegally feeding stray cats on public lands.

Why it matters

Feral cats pose a significant threat to Hawaii's delicate native ecosystems, preying on endangered birds and spreading diseases. Conservationists have long sounded the alarm, but the problem continues to worsen with an estimated 300,000 feral cats roaming Oahu alone. Effective action is needed to protect Hawaii's unique flora and fauna.

The details

The proposed bills, HB 1736 and HB 1594/SB 3012, aim to curb feral cat overpopulation through mandatory spay/neuter laws and import restrictions. HB 1736 would establish a spay/neuter fund and require cats over 5 months old to be surgically sterilized, with some exemptions for breeders. HB 1594/SB 3012 would mandate sterilization documentation for imported dogs and cats. However, critics argue the breeder exemptions could undermine the bills' effectiveness, and neither proposal addresses the root causes of feral colonies, such as abandoned pets and illegal feeding.

  • The Hawaii state legislature is currently considering the feral cat bills during the 2026 legislative session.

The players

Hawaii Invasive Species Council

A state agency that oversees efforts to address invasive species threats in Hawaii, including feral cats.

Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources

The state agency responsible for managing and protecting Hawaii's natural resources, which has identified feral cats as a significant threat to endangered native birds.

Animal Legal Defense Fund

A national non-profit organization that advocates for stronger animal protection laws, which estimates there are around 300,000 feral cats on Oahu alone.

Popoki Place Oahu Cat Sanctuary

A proposed cat sanctuary on Oahu that has faced challenges in getting established due to funding and zoning issues.

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What’s next

The Hawaii state legislature will continue to debate the proposed feral cat bills during the 2026 legislative session, with a goal of passing legislation to address the growing crisis.

The takeaway

Hawaii's unique ecosystems are under threat from the growing feral cat population, and state lawmakers are taking steps to address the problem through mandatory spay/neuter laws and import restrictions. However, more comprehensive solutions are needed to tackle the root causes of feral colonies and protect the state's endangered native species.