Buying a Cat in Dubai – What You Need to Know

Cats are among the most popular pets in Dubai. They fit well into both apartments and villas, and many residents appreciate their independence compared to dogs. But while cats are easier to keep in some ways, buying or adopting one in Dubai comes with specific responsibilities and legal requirements.

From Dubai Municipality Pet Laws to the unique climate, you’ll need to be well-prepared before bringing a furry companion home. This guide covers everything you need to know about buying a cat in Dubai.

Should You Get a Cat?

The first step is to ask yourself honestly whether a cat is the right choice for you. Cats live on average 15–20 years, which means you are committing to long-term responsibility. They may not need daily walks like dogs, but they still require care, feeding, playtime, and affection every single day.

Think about your lifestyle:

Do you travel frequently? Then you’ll need reliable pet sitters.
Do you live in a rental apartment? Make sure your landlord allows cats.
Do you or a family member have allergies? Cat hair can be a real issue in small spaces.

If you’re ready to invest the time, money, and love a cat requires, the next step is to decide what kind of cat will suit your home best.

Where to Buy or Adopt a Cat in Dubai

If you’re ready to welcome a cat into your home, the next step is to decide where to get one. In Dubai, you essentially have two legal and responsible options: adoption or buying from a licensed breeder/pet shop.

Adoption from shelters and rescues

Dubai has a very active rescue community. Organizations such as Feline Friends Dubai, and smaller foster-based networks regularly organize adoption days and events. Many cats in shelters are rescued strays or surrendered pets, and most are already:

Vaccinated
Microchipped
Spayed or neutered (especially adult cats)

Adopting is often the most ethical choice, because you not only gain a companion but also help reduce the city’s large stray cat population. Volunteers and adoption coordinators will also take the time to match you with the right cat — for example, a playful kitten if you want energy and fun, or a calm adult cat if you prefer a low-maintenance pet.

Adoption fees are typically much lower than buying a cat from a breeder, and they usually include the cost of initial vet care. This makes adoption a very good choice for first-time cat owners in Dubai.

Licensed breeders and pet shops

If you’re looking for a specific breed — such as a Persian, British Shorthair, or Ragdoll (all popular in Dubai) — you may need to turn to a breeder or pet shop. However, you should only buy from licensed businesses registered with the Dubai Municipality.

A reputable breeder or shop will:

Allow you to visit the environment where the kittens are raised.
Provide official vaccination records and health checks.
Ensure kittens are at least 12 weeks old before leaving their mother.
Ask questions about your home and lifestyle to make sure their kitten goes to a suitable family.

This last point is important — good breeders care about where their kittens end up, not just about making a sale.

⚠️ Important: Private sales through social media or unlicensed breeders are illegal in Dubai. If caught, the animal may be confiscated, and you risk fines. Always ask to see the Dubai Municipality license before purchasing.

Dubai Municipality Pet Laws You Must Know

Bringing a cat into your home in Dubai also means complying with strict local regulations. These laws are designed to promote animal welfare and make sure pets can be safely identified if lost.

Microchipping and registration: Every cat must be microchipped and officially registered with Dubai Municipality Veterinary Services.
Annual vaccinations: Core vaccines for cats — FVRCP (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia) and rabies — are compulsory and must be renewed each year.
Pet license and ID tag: After registration, you will receive a plastic Municipality ID tag. This tag proves compliance and must be renewed annually when your cat receives new vaccinations.
Fines and penalties: Failing to register, vaccinate, or microchip your cat can result in fines starting at AED 200. Repeated violations may lead to confiscation of your pet.

The process itself is straightforward. Almost all veterinary clinics in Dubai can handle vaccinations, microchipping, and registration in a single appointment. Keeping your cat compliant not only avoids fines, but also ensures you’ll be quickly reunited if your cat is ever lost.

Costs of Buying a Cat in Dubai

Owning a cat in Dubai is rewarding, but it does come with ongoing expenses. Compared to some countries, costs are slightly higher because of the legal requirements, climate, and veterinary standards. Here’s a breakdown:

Initial costs

Adoption fees: AED 500–1,000, usually including microchip and vaccinations.
Pedigree kittens: AED 3,000–8,000+ from licensed breeders, depending on the breed of the cat.

Ongoing monthly costs

Food: AED 100–300 (premium imported brands are pricier, but often healthier for your cat).
Litter and supplies: AED 50–150, depending on the type of litter used.
Toys, scratching posts, and grooming: modest monthly expenses, but essential for your cat’s well-being.

Annual costs

Vaccinations and check-ups: AED 500–800 per year.
Microchip renewal and Municipality tag: included during vet visits.
Emergency vet visits: AED 1,000+, depending on the treatment. Many expats consider pet insurance for peace of mind.

One-time purchases

Carrier: AED 150–300
Cat tree / scratching post: AED 200–800
Beds, bowls, litter box setup: AED 200–400

Over a lifespan of 15–20 years, the costs of owning a cat can add up significantly. But with good planning, you can provide a safe, healthy, and happy life for your pet without unpleasant financial surprises.

Kitten or Adult Cat?

One of the biggest decisions when buying a cat is whether to choose a kitten or an adult cat.

Kittens are adorable, playful, and many people love to raise their cat from the start. But they require much more attention and patience. Kittens are not yet fully litter-trained, they can be destructive during play, and they need gentle socialization to grow into well-balanced adult cats.
Adult cats (one year and older) often come with clear personalities. If you want a calmer, more independent cat, adoption may be the better choice. Many adult cats in shelters are already litter-trained, socialized, and sometimes even used to children or other pets.

There’s no right or wrong — it depends on how much time and effort you want to invest during the early months.

One Cat or Two?

Many people assume cats are solitary animals, but that’s not entirely true. While they are not pack animals like dogs, cats can form strong bonds with one another. Especially in Dubai’s apartments, where cats don’t go outside, a second cat can make life much happier.

Single cats may do fine if you are home often and give them lots of attention.
Two cats are usually better if you work long hours, since they can keep each other company, play, and avoid boredom-related problems like scratching furniture or excessive meowing.

If you decide on two cats, it’s best to adopt a pair that already gets along (siblings or cats from the same foster home). Introducing two strangers can take time and patience.

Male or Female Cat?

Another common question is whether to get a male or female cat. In reality, personality plays a bigger role than gender, but there are some general differences:

Male cats (toms) are usually larger and can be more adventurous. Unneutered males are known to roam and mark territory, which is why neutering is strongly recommended in Dubai.
Female cats often stay closer to home and may be more reserved, though this varies widely.

The most important point in Dubai: all cats should be spayed or neutered. Not only does this prevent unwanted litters in a city with many stray cats, but it also makes cats calmer, healthier, and easier to live with indoors.

Breed Cat or Mixed Cat?

When buying a cat in Dubai, you’ll often see both purebred cats and mixed-breed cats (often from shelters or adoption groups). Each option has advantages and drawbacks.

Breed cats (such as Persian, British Shorthair, Ragdoll, or Bengal) are popular in Dubai. Their appearance and temperament are more predictable — for example, Persians are usually calm, while Bengals are highly active. However, pedigree cats are expensive and can have higher risks of genetic health problems.
Mixed cats are more affordable (sometimes free if adopted from a shelter) and are often healthier due to their genetic diversity. Their personalities may be less predictable, but many mixed cats make wonderful companions.

Whichever you choose, the most important thing is to buy or adopt from a reputable source. Avoid unlicensed online sellers or backyard breeders, as they often ignore health checks, vaccinations, or proper living conditions.

Home Preparation & Essentials

Before your new cat arrives, make sure your Dubai home is safe and cat-friendly.

Cat-proofing your space: Secure balconies and windows with nets or screens — accidents from high-rise apartments are sadly common in Dubai. Remove toxic plants and household items that could be harmful.

Air conditioning & climate: Cats can suffer in extreme heat. Ensure they always have access to cool, shaded areas, fresh water, and proper ventilation. AC helps, but dry air may require a humidifier. Also, note that some cats may be sensitive to AC noise.

Essential equipment for cats:

Two litter boxes per cat (rule of thumb: one per cat, plus one extra).
Food and water bowls (stainless steel or ceramic).
A scratching post or cat tree to protect your furniture.
Toys and climbing opportunities for enrichment.
A comfortable bed or hideaway for naps.
A sturdy carrier for vet visits or travel.

A well-prepared home will help your cat settle in quickly and avoid stress-related problems.

Further Information: Must-Have Starter Kit for Cats.

Healthcare & Veterinary Services in Dubai

Cats in Dubai require regular veterinary care, both for their health and to remain compliant with local laws. The two compulsory vaccinations for cats in Dubai are FVRCP (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia) and rabies, and both must be renewed annually to keep your pet license valid. Some catteries or boarding facilities also request additional vaccines, such as feline leukemia, so it is worth checking requirements in advance.

Spaying and neutering are strongly recommended, not only because of Dubai’s large stray population but also because the procedure helps prevent health issues, reduces behavioral problems, and generally makes cats easier to manage indoors.

Preventive care is another part of responsible ownership. Even indoor cats should receive regular flea, tick, and worm treatments, since pests can be carried inside on clothing, shoes, or other pets. Good veterinary care is not just about avoiding fines; it is the foundation for a long, healthy, and stress-free life for your cat.

Traveling and Relocating with Cats

Because Dubai is such an international city, many pet owners eventually face the challenge of traveling or relocating with their cats. Bringing a cat into the UAE requires an ISO-standard microchip and proof of up-to-date vaccinations, and kittens younger than four months cannot be imported.

For those leaving Dubai, the rules depend on the airline and the destination country. Most airlines require IATA-approved carriers, a health certificate issued shortly before departure, and up-to-date vaccination records. Certain countries also impose quarantine periods, which means planning well in advance is essential.

Specialized pet relocation companies in Dubai can help manage paperwork, veterinary approvals, and safe transportation. While this service can be expensive, it often makes the process smoother and less stressful, especially for long-haul moves.

Conclusion

Buying or adopting a cat in Dubai is a rewarding decision, but it comes with specific challenges and responsibilities. From choosing between a kitten and an adult cat to deciding whether to adopt or buy from a breeder, the process requires careful thought. Just as important is compliance with the Dubai Municipality Pet Laws, which mandate microchipping, vaccinations, and registration.

Living in Dubai also means adapting to unique conditions, such as the hot climate and high-rise apartments. With the right preparation — budgeting realistically, cat-proofing your home, and ensuring regular veterinary care — you can create a safe and enriching environment for your pet.

If you take these steps, your new cat will thrive and become a beloved member of your family. Whether you open your heart to a rescued stray or bring home a pedigree kitten, responsible ownership ensures that your feline companion enjoys a long, happy, and healthy life in Dubai.

Disclaimer:
In Dubai, it is always best to adopt rescue cats or kittens from shelters or local rescue groups, as this helps give homeless animals a loving home. However, if someone you know has a litter of kittens, it is also perfectly fine to offer one of these kittens a safe and caring home.