Over 140 cats have been found abandoned in a remote desert lot in Abu Dhabi, UAE, sparking outrage and prompting a government investigation. The cats, of various breeds including non-native varieties like Persians, were discovered trapped in carriers or left to roam the desert without food, water, or shelter. Rescue efforts have managed to save 95 cats so far, with 50 sadly found dead. Additionally, a golden retriever was rescued, while a husky was found dead. Some of the animals were found to have been microchipped, indicating that they were not strays.

The abandonment took place near the government-run Abu Dhabi Animal Shelter, which was unaware of the incident and declined to comment. The extreme temperatures of September, reaching highs of 40.5°C (105°F) in Abu Dhabi, further compounded the suffering of these helpless animals. Animal rights organizations and activists have condemned this disturbing act and are calling for justice. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has offered a reward of $5,000 for any information leading to the identification of those responsible for abandoning the cats.

PETA Asia Vice-President Jason Baker emphasized the importance of not letting this act of cruelty go unnoticed, and highlighted the need for proactive solutions such as spaying and neutering, as well as adopting from overburdened shelters. The Abu Dhabi Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) has committed to a thorough investigation into the incident. They are urging the public to come forward with any relevant information and are determined to hold the culprits accountable. The fact that authorities are taking this matter seriously has been praised by Dr. Katherine Polak, Vice President of Companion Animals at Humane Society International.

A group of dedicated volunteers has been tirelessly working to rescue, microchip, and find new homes for the abandoned cats. They have been sacrificing their own time off work to ensure the well-being of these animals. The efforts have already led to the identification and safe return of ten pet cats from Dubai, located an hour's drive from Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi previously implemented a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program in 2008 to address the issue of feral and stray cats, primarily through the Abu Dhabi Animal Shelter.

The TNR program, in compliance with international animal welfare guidelines, aims to release the cats back to their original trapping locations. However, dumping sites for animals are unfortunately widespread across Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The International Organization for Animal Protection (OIPA) has highlighted the urgent need for action, as similar incidents of abandonment continue to occur. The organization has been advocating for the welfare of stray animals in the UAE for years.