Our Pawsitive Journey: Adopting a Cat in Dubai

cute cat

Let me tell you about the incredible adventure our family embarked on when we decided to adopt a cat in Dubai! It was a journey filled with excitement, a few hurdles, and a whole lot of love. If you’re thinking about bringing a furry friend into your home here, I’ve got all the tips, tricks, and insights you need. So grab a comfy seat, and let’s dive into our experience!

Why We Chose to Adopt a Cat

Before we even started the process, we had a long chat about why we wanted to adopt a cat. My kids had been begging for a pet, and after doing some research, we all agreed that adopting was the best route to take. Not only would we be giving a cat a loving home, but we’d also be helping reduce the number of homeless animals in the city.

Cats are fantastic companions—especially in Dubai’s bustling environment. They require less space and can be more independent than dogs, making them perfect for our busy family life. Plus, let’s be honest, who can resist those adorable little faces?

Researching Adoption Options in Dubai

Once we were all on board, it was time to start our search for the perfect kitty! Dubai has a variety of options for adopting cats, so we wanted to make sure we explored all our choices. Here are some great places to consider:

  1. Animal Shelters and Rescues

Dubai is home to several amazing animal shelters and rescue organizations that work tirelessly to find homes for stray and abandoned pets. Some of the most reputable ones include:

  • Dubai Animal Rescue Center (DARC): They have a range of cats available for adoption and are known for their commitment to animal welfare.
  • The Animal Project: This organization focuses on rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals in need.
  • Feline Friends: Dedicated specifically to cats, they have a variety of felines waiting for a forever home.

These shelters often host adoption events where you can meet the animals and find out more about their personalities.

https://thegreenplanetdubai.com/en/adopt-animal

  1. Online Platforms

We also checked out social media groups and websites dedicated to pet adoption in Dubai. There are several Facebook groups, such as “Adopt a Cat in Dubai”, where people post about cats in need of homes. Websites like Petfinder or Gumtree can also help you connect with cats available for adoption.

Visiting Shelters and Meeting Cats

With a list of shelters in hand, we planned a few visits. I can’t tell you how much fun it was! Each shelter had its own vibe, and we were greeted with open paws (and some meows) from the residents.

When you visit a shelter, take your time to meet different cats. We were looking for a cat that matched our family’s energy—playful, friendly, and comfortable around kids. It’s a good idea to spend some time in the cat’s area to see how they interact with you and your family.

The Moment We Found Our Feline Friend

After visiting a few shelters, we met a sweet little tabby named Milo. She was shy at first, hiding in the corner, but when my daughter approached her slowly, Milo came out for a pet. That moment melted my heart! We knew right then and there that she was the one.

When you find a cat you love, it’s crucial to ask about its history, temperament, and any special needs. The shelter staff can provide valuable information about the cat’s behavior and health, which helps you decide if it’s a good match for your family.

The Adoption Process

Once we decided on Milo, it was time to go through the adoption process. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect when adopting a cat in Dubai:

  1. Application Form

Most shelters require you to fill out an application form. They ask questions about your living situation, previous pet experience, and how you plan to care for your new cat. It’s important to be honest—shelters want to ensure that each cat goes to a suitable home.

  1. Home Check

Some organizations may conduct a home visit to ensure your living environment is safe for a cat. They’ll check for any potential hazards, such as open windows, toxic plants, or access to small objects that could be harmful.

  1. Adoption Fee

Be prepared to pay an adoption fee, which typically covers vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and sometimes even microchipping. This fee can vary by organization, but it generally ranges from AED 200 to AED 800. It’s a small price to pay for the joy and companionship a cat brings!

  1. Health Check and Vaccinations

Before bringing Milo home, the shelter made sure she was up-to-date on her vaccinations and had a health check. It’s essential to keep track of these records, as they’ll be important for future vet visits.

https://www.alhayatvetclinic.com/pet-vaccinations

cat vaccines

Preparing Our Home for Milo

After completing the adoption process, we were over the moon! But before bringing Milo home, we needed to prepare. Here’s what we did to ensure our house was cat-friendly:

  1. Create a Safe Space

We set up a cozy space for Milo with a soft bed, food and water bowls, and a litter box. Having a designated area helps her feel secure during the transition.

  1. Cat-Proofing the Home

Cats are naturally curious, so we had to cat-proof our home. We removed or secured any hazardous items within reach, such as electrical cords, houseplants, and fragile objects.

  1. Gather Supplies

We stocked up on all the essentials: litter, a litter box, food, toys, scratching posts, and a comfy bed. For toys, we chose a mix of interactive toys and simple balls of yarn to keep her entertained.

Bringing Milo Home

The day finally arrived! We picked Milo up from the shelter, and I remember my heart racing with excitement and a bit of nervousness. How would she adjust? We brought her home in a cozy carrier, and when we opened the door, she took a tentative step out.

  1. Introducing Her to the Family

We made sure to introduce Milo to the family slowly. We encouraged the kids to approach her gently, allowing her to come to them at her own pace. It took a little while, but soon she was exploring her new home and sniffing around.

  1. Patience is Key

The first few days were all about patience. Milo was still getting used to her surroundings and needed time to feel comfortable. We let her find her own space and didn’t force interactions. Over time, she began to show her playful side, and the kids loved every minute of it!

cat playing

The Joy of Having a Cat

Having Milo in our lives has been nothing short of amazing. She has brought so much joy, laughter, and cuddles into our home. We’ve created a little routine together—morning snuggles, playtime in the evenings, and even movie nights with her curled up on our laps.

  1. Health Care and Regular Check-Ups

It’s important to keep up with regular vet visits for vaccinations and health check-ups. We found a great vet clinic nearby called Pets Wellness, which is known for its friendly staff and excellent care. Don’t forget to get her microchipped, which is essential in case she ever wanders off.

  1. Socialization and Training

To help Milo adjust and stay happy, we made an effort to socialize her. We introduced her to new experiences gradually—like meeting friends’ pets and exploring different areas of the house. We also taught her a few tricks using positive reinforcement. It’s been fun watching her learn!

Reflecting on Our Journey

Adopting Milo has been one of the best decisions we’ve ever made as a family. She has filled our home with love and laughter, and the kids have learned so much about responsibility and compassion through caring for her.

If you’re considering adopting a cat in Dubai, I can’t recommend it enough. Just remember to do your research, prepare your home, and be patient during the adjustment period. The joy a cat can bring into your life is truly immeasurable!

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