A Complete Guide to a Smooth Cat Adoption Process in Dubai
Adopting a cat in Dubai is both rewarding and life-changing for you and your new kitten. This experience can bring you joy and give a deserving animal a second chance. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know for a hassle-free cat adoption in Dubai. Here’s everything you need to know, from choosing the right shelters to creating a welcoming environment for your new feline companion.

Why Adopt a Cat?
If you’re thinking about getting a new pet, consider adopting a cat instead. It has many benefits for you and the new cat you bring home.
- Helps reduce overcrowding in animal shelters
- Gives homeless and abandoned cats a second chance
- Cats offer affection, stress relief, and companionship
- Supports animal welfare and opposes unethical breeding
While there are pet providers that sell cats bred through ethical breeding practices, it would be great to consider adoption. Many kittens are waiting to start new lives at the shelters.
Researching Cat Adoption Centers in Dubai
Finding cat adoption centers in Dubai is easy nowadays. There are many animal rescue groups that have an online presence through their websites and social media pages.
- Nine Lives: A well-known shelter focused on rescuing stray and abandoned cats.
- Furballs Rescue: They are dedicated to rehoming cats and kittens in need of homes.
- 38 Smiles: A volunteer-run group that rescues and rehabilitates strays for adoption.
- Mau and Me: Another group committed to rescuing and rehoming stray cats.
- Yanni Animal Welfare: Focused on finding new homes for abandoned cats.
You must also consider adoption centers and animal shelters that work alongside Dubai vet clinics. Those who collaborate with vet professionals will give you peace of mind that you’ll adopt a healthy cat.
6 Steps of Cat Adoption in Dubai
Adopting a cat is straightforward once you understand the process. Once you take your new companion home, you’ll feel that all your effort has been worth it.
- Step 1: Visit a Shelter or Browse Cats Online
Some shelters post photos and profiles of cats that are ready to be adopted. They often share the cat’s personality description, age, and notes for lifestyle compatibility. If you have the time, visiting the shelters and meeting the cats in person would still be best. - Step 2: Complete an Application
Adopting a cat in Dubai has certain requirements. Shelters will ask you to fill out an adoption questionnaire or application form where you will share your details like your address, job, lifestyle, and if you have any experience owning a pet. - Step 3: Meet the Cat in Person
If you haven’t visited the shelter prior to your application, they will ask you to spend time with your potential pet. This will help you know if the cat’s personality and temperament are a good fit for you. - Step 4: Pay the Adoption Fee
Most shelters charge a fee to help cover the veterinary expenses spent on your adopted cat. This includes any treatments, vaccinations, spay and neuter surgeries, and microchipping, which is mandatory in Dubai. - Step 5: Sign an Adoption Contract
Once you’ve paid the adoption fee, you need to sign a contract to formalize the adoption process. In some cases, the shelter may require a house check, which will also be noted in the contract you’ll sign. - Step 6. Start a Trial Period
Some organizations allow a one-week trial. During this time, you can get to know the cat better and see if you’re both a good fit with each other. When everything checks out, you’re now the proud owner of a new cat that will provide you and your family unconditional affection.

Things to Consider Before Adopting a Kitten
Even though having a pet at home sounds like a great idea, there are some things you must consider to avoid problems in the future.
- Ensure that your schedule and lifestyle can accommodate a pet’s needs.
- Check whether you or any family member has cat allergies.
- Consider the cost of caring for a cat, including food, litter, vet care, and grooming.
- Cats require daily care, playtime, and attention, so make sure you can offer these.
If there are any hindrances preventing you from taking care of a cat long-term, it may be best not to adopt one for now. You can adopt a cat at any time once you’re ready for the responsibility that comes with it.
Health and Vet Care for Your Adopted Cat
A big part of responsible pet ownership is being able to take your cat to the vet clinic where they can receive proper health care.
It’s important to schedule a vet appointment for your cat as soon as possible. The vet clinic and veterinarian you choose for your pet will be your partner in ensuring your cat’s health at all stages of life. Most cats for adoption will already have updated vaccinations and a registered microchip. When you visit the vet, they will recommend a schedule for the next vaccination shots and determine whether your cat’s microchip is up-to-date. You must also remember cats require grooming, though they may not need frequent baths, unlike dogs. However, brushing their fur and trimming their nails on a regular basis is essential to maintain good hygiene.

Conclusion
Remember that taking care of a pet is a big responsibility. If you’re capable and have decided to care for a cat, consider adopting from animal shelters. Cat adoption in Dubai is an easy process if you know where to start. You can begin contacting animal shelters to inquire about the cats that are available for adoption. You can also sign up at Dubai vet clinics that host cat adoption days in collaboration with rescue organizations. One great thing about adopting through the assistance of vet clinics is that they usually have great packages for customers who choose to adopt a pet.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much does it cost to adopt a cat in Dubai?
- Adoption fees may vary depending on your chosen animal shelter. However, you can expect to pay around AED 500 to AED 1,000 to cover vet expenses.
2. Is cat adoption in Dubai a long process?
- The process is easy and straightforward. The entire process, including the trial period, could take a week or two.
3. What documents are required for adopting a cat?
- You may need identification and proof of residence. Some shelters may require more documents or IDs.

