The Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare has announced that the cat facility will open on 2 November.

A ministry official confirmed to 'One' that the final preparations are currently underway.

"We are getting ready to open the facility on November 2," the official stated.

Located in a 5,000 square-foot area in Hulhumale' Farukolhufushi, the temporary cat shelter has been handed over to the Male' City Council by the Housing Development Corporation. Construction began in March this year and has since been completed. The council recently announced it is hiring one veterinarian and two veterinary nurses to staff the facility.

The veterinarian's salary has been set at MVR 35,000, while veterinary nurses will receive MVR 8,130 per month. Additionally, staff will receive a service allowance of MVR 100 per working day and overtime pay amounting to 35% of their salary.

The Ministry explained that the temporary facility aims to provide shelter and care for stray cats, protecting them from injury and disease while ensuring a safe, clean environment. The facility will feature a quarantine area, a clinic, and a laboratory. It will also have a pharmacy stocked with medication for the cats, and a dedicated space for exercise and play.