Animal Welfare Group Raises Concerns Over Stray Cat Relocation Plan in Raa Atoll
Cats roaming through the streets
The Feline Welfare Organisation (FWO) has voiced serious concern over the Inguraidhoo Council’s decision to relocate over 300 stray cats to an uninhabited island.
The move, officially announced in the Government Gazette under reference (IUL)309-CBF/309/2025/54, has prompted calls for a reconsideration of the proposed approach.
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Official Statement Regarding Inguraidhoo Council’s Plan to Relocate Stray Cats to an Uninhabited Island.@InguraidhooMv @MAAWmv pic.twitter.com/XU2bPnAb2E— Feline Welfare Organization (@FelineWO) April 20, 2025
According to the FWO, while there is recognition of the need to manage stray animal populations, relocating cats to uninhabited islands without adequate food, shelter or veterinary care is viewed as both inhumane and unsustainable. The organisation warned that such measures often lead to suffering and increased mortality among relocated animals.
In response to the announcement, the FWO urged the Inguraidhoo Council to explore alternative long-term strategies and called on the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare to intervene and guide the council towards more responsible methods.
The organisation has offered its support in developing and implementing humane solutions such as Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programmes, public education initiatives, and structured feeding systems. These methods, according to the FWO, have proven effective in managing stray populations while safeguarding animal welfare and maintaining community well-being.
The FWO reaffirmed its commitment to working with local councils, communities and government authorities to promote approaches that reflect both compassion and responsibility.
