Abu Dhabi outlines humane plan to control large numbers of stray cats

Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi is expanding the use of sterilisation, vaccination and humane deterrents to manage its large population of stray cats, warning that simply removing the animals from neighbourhoods is unlikely to solve the problem in the long term.

The Department of Municipalities and Transport said it was using a programme known as TNVMR, trapping, neutering, vaccinating, microchipping and returning cats, alongside humane methods of keeping animals away from areas where they may cause problems.

The approach is intended to curb breeding while maintaining a stable population of healthy cats in residential communities.

In guidance on living alongside stray cats, the department identified six common concerns raised by residents: fear of the animals, unwanted behaviour, cats entering or climbing on cars, growing numbers of cats, animals entering private property and digging or leaving waste.

The department said stray cats do not deliberately harm people and should not pose a health risk when they have gone through the TNVMR programme and received the required vaccinations.

Neutering can also reduce behaviours such as fighting, spraying and excessive noise, it said, while residents concerned about growing numbers of cats can request the programme through the relevant municipality.

During colder weather, cats may climb onto or enter vehicles in search of warmth. Residents were advised to park in enclosed garages where possible, use car covers and ensure windows are fully closed and doors locked.

Cats may also enter homes or gardens when they have access to rubbish or are being fed by residents. The department recommended securely closing rubbish bins and using humane deterrents, including secure fencing and motion-activated water sprinklers.

For gardens, where digging is a natural feline behaviour, residents can use non-harmful barriers such as mesh or plastic fencing, soil-covered mats, plastic anti-digging spikes or large stones, the guidance said.

The department cautioned against relocating stray cats, even though moving them elsewhere may appear to offer a quick solution.

Cats are territorial and may travel long distances in an attempt to return to their original area, exposing them to road accidents. Their presence can also help control pests around properties.

Removing cats can also create what biologists call the “vacuum effect”, in which a temporary fall in the population is followed by new cats moving into the area and breeding, eventually restoring or even increasing their numbers.

The department said sustained use of TNVMR and humane deterrents offered a more effective long-term approach.

Under the programme, stray cats are sterilised and vaccinated, fitted with a microchip and treated for worms under the supervision of a qualified veterinarian.

A small section of the ear is also tipped using a medical procedure as a visible sign that the animal has been sterilised, before the cat is returned to the location where it was captured.

The department said stray cats generally have no individual owner, although people in a neighbourhood may provide them with food, water and veterinary care. It stressed that the animals are sentient and should be treated in a way that respects their welfare.