New Felixer Cartridge Approved to Control Feral Cats in Victoria

A new feral cat control technology has been approved for use in Victoria, with the state government authorising the Felixer cartridge system under strict conditions to help protect vulnerable native wildlife.

The approval allows the use of 1080 delivered via the Felixer device exclusively for feral cat eradication on specified Crown land. Senior public land managers must apply to Agriculture Victoria for a permit before the device can be deployed.

The Felixer uses visual sensors to detect feral cats and sprays them with sodium fluoroacetate, which the animals ingest during grooming. Agriculture Victoria says the device will form part of a broader, strategic biosecurity approach and is expected to be used primarily in remote areas, minimising any risk to domestic pets.

The technology was approved by the national regulator in February 2023 and is being introduced alongside a $1.3 million investment in long-term cat management programs, including targeted desexing and public awareness campaigns.