Abu Dhabi offers free training for stray cat care

Abu Dhabi has launched a free course to help residents manage and care for stray cats in the city. The program is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to improve animal welfare and support humane treatment of community cats.

The course teaches participants how to safely handle stray cats, provide food and medical care, and monitor cat colonies. It also covers the trap-neuter-vaccinate-return (TNVR) method, which helps control the stray cat population in a safe and ethical way.

Dr Rachel J. Shaw, CEO of Animal Welfare Abu Dhabi (AWAD) explained, “When we say the programme is tailored to our region, we mean it’s designed to address the specific conditions community cats face here in Abu Dhabi, such as extreme heat. Protocols are adjusted to ensure cats can be cared for safely in these conditions.”

Animal welfare groups have welcomed the initiative, noting that it encourages responsible care and reduces risks for both cats and humans. The course also helps build awareness about the importance of community involvement in caring for stray animals. 

David Appleby, founder of Microchipped.ae said, “When communities understand how to care for cats safely and consistently, we see fewer injuries and healthier colonies. It also builds a sense of shared responsibility; people stop seeing stray cats as someone else’s problem and start becoming part of the solution. That shift is powerful, and it’s what this course is all about.” 

The Abu Dhabi government hopes that by educating residents, the city can better manage stray cat populations while promoting kindness and safety for all animals. The initiative reflects a growing global trend toward humane treatment of urban wildlife and pets.