Male' City Launches Cat Registration and Medication Program

The Feline Welfare Organization, which oversees the effort, announced the initiative's launch on Tuesday by Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare, Dr. Aishath Rameela. The minister registered the first cat, named 'Goldy,' after administering medication.

Feline Welfare spokesperson Ahmed Vizan explained that the medicine, donated by the organization Care for Paws, was distributed to cats gathering in the parking lot in front of Marry Brown, a popular cat congregation spot in the capital city. Key aspects of the program include:

• Registration and Medication: All cats received medication and were registered.
• Tag Collars: Each cat was given a tag collar with a serial number for tracking.
• Data Collection: The organization maintains detailed records for each registered cat.
• First Day Statistics: 80 cats were registered on the program's first day.

Vizan emphasized the importance of public cooperation, advising against feeding or medicating the cats during this period and recommending thorough handwashing after contact. He warned that the disease, while only affecting cats, poses a significant risk of spreading through contact.

To manage the city's cat population and contain the disease, the government plans to construct a dedicated facility for cats in Hulhumale. The city is home to over 3,000 cats, all of which will eventually be relocated to the new facility.