Allowing cats for adoption and simultaneously importing them commercially would hinder efforts to manage the stray population effectively, the minister said.
Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare Dr Aishath Rameela said that a temporary ban will be placed on the commercial import of cats into the Maldives.
Speaking on a state media program, Minister Rameela said that this measure, included in the newly drafted Animal Welfare Bill, aims to control pet imports while the "Olhu Hiyaa" cat facility opened in Hulhumale' begins adoption processes.
Allowing cats for adoption and simultaneously importing them commercially would hinder efforts to manage the stray population effectively, she said.
Once all stray cats are transferred to the facility, commercial imports of cats will be put on hold, although individuals can still import cats as pets.
The "Olhu Hiyaa" facility, opened last Saturday, is a temporary facility. The construction of a four storey permanent facility is set to begin next year, with with the approval of the Ministry of Finance, the Minister said.
The temporary facility will allow cat owners to board their pets while away.
The facility’s plan includes a phased intake of over 4,000 stray cats from Male', aiming to ensure safe relocation, health assessment, and necessary treatments, including neutering and spaying for population control.
Minister Rameela also said that the clinic at the facility will provide services for other animals as well.
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