Purrfect order

Make sure your cat doesn't stray into the streets of Dubai. And if it does, ensure it is tagged. A campaign has been launched by the Dubai Municipality against "the phenomenon of stray cats that will cause health hazards to the society, and also deform the general appearance of the city".

The municipality's concern appears to be that stray cats can contract deadly diseases and possibly spread them.

The month-long campaign was opened by Abdullah Rafea, Assistant Director General for Environment and Public Health Affairs. He says the campaign is aimed at creating awareness of the various health hazards caused by stray cats as they could spread contagious diseases like rabies and toxoplasmosis that can affect the human foetus. "Human beings can be exposed to these diseases due to their surrounding environment as these cats live without any care or protection."

This campaign focuses on the role played by the municipality in controlling the number of these cats by implementing a programme globally approved by advanced countries for countering the problem. It includes a vaccination programme under the supervision of specialists from one of the international bodies," says Rafea.

Though exact figures are unavailable, a top municipality official said stray cats are breeding successfully in neighbourhoods.

The authorities warn that cats caught without a tag and found to be sick will be euthanised. They also advise that residents should not feed or pet stray cats as they could be infected with contagious diseases. "If you spot them, call our hotline number 800900," says Rafea.

A cat that is tagged and found straying could earn its owner a fine of up to Dh500.