A court has heard how the more than two dozen cats owned by an Invercargill women, caused a plethora of problems for near-by neighbours.

Averil Gardiner, whose lawyer says now owns 25 cats, is fighting two charges.

One relates to failing to comply to a bylaw limiting her to three cats and creating nuisance under the Health Act.

Sarah McKenzie, representing the Invercargill City Council, documented some of the issues.

"They were fouling the neighbour's lawns and gardens and digging holes," she told the court.

"The cats were fighting and causing distress to the neighbours pets."