Videos showing a man abusing a cat have prompted concern among animal rescuers and residents in the UAE. Several people said they reported the social media account to authorities after seeing the footage online.
The videos, shared on the man’s Facebook account, show a knife being held close to the cat’s neck as it tries to move away. Other footage shows him pressing his foot against the animal’s neck and appearing to choke it while the cat meows.
The posts were first highlighted by Remote Rescues, a UK-based animal rescuer that treats, adopts and fosters animals from the UAE. The rescuer said they tried to report the content through Dubai Police’s cybercrime reporting link.
A Dubai-based rescuer, Sara A., said she saw the footage in local animal rescue groups. She said several members had already reported the account to Dubai Police’s cybercrime unit.
The rescuer who highlighted the posts urged people who witness animal abuse to report it to the appropriate authorities. They also advised preserving evidence, including the original video, account details, date and location.
The creator later apologised for the videos. He said the cat was his and that he loved it, adding that what he did was intended as a joke. He said he was sorry, asked people not to misunderstand him and promised not to make videos like those again.
UAE rules on animal abuse
Federal Decree-Law No. 31 of 2021 prohibits crimes against animals. Article 472 provides for a fine of up to Dh5,000 for anyone who deliberately harasses, tortures or maltreats a domesticated or tamed animal.
The same law sets penalties for deliberately killing or poisoning certain domesticated animals. The source also noted that Federal Law No. 16 of 2007 prohibits the use of animals in scientific experiments without authorisation.
Khaleej Times said it had contacted Dubai Municipality for comment on the situation. The report did not state whether authorities had opened an investigation or taken action against the account.