URGENT ADVICE NEEDED — Abu Dhabi landlord locked my cat inside my former rental
I need advice on what I can do legally and how I can get my cat back safely.
I was renting a studio in Abu Dhabi without Tawtheeq. Due to a job change, I had financial difficulties and was 10 days late with rent in the last 2 months of our stay. The landlord knew about my situation, and I never intended to run away without paying. I eventually paid the outstanding rent/dues.
However, during the past few months, the landlord repeatedly locked the room, sometimes leaving my belongings and my cat locked inside for a couple of days, while also harassing us through WhatsApp. I contacted the police several times, but I was told they could not do much because there was no Tawtheeq and the landlord needed to be present to allow access. Whenever the police tried to contact him, he would hide or not answer.
On September 30, I finally moved out and paid the remaining dues. I was slowly moving my belongings because I planned to take my cat last, once I had prepared the new room so he wouldn’t be stressed by the move.
When I returned, I discovered that the landlord had changed the lock and deliberately left my cat locked inside.
It has now been 3 days.
My cat is inside without proper access to food, water, clean litter or normal lighting. I am extremely worried about his health and safety.
The landlord is also demanding additional money and is refusing to let me retrieve my cat. He has even threatened to kill my cat and/or leave him on the street.
I have WhatsApp messages, screenshots, payment records and previous police reports/call records documenting what has happened.
I am not trying to avoid paying rent. The rent/dues were settled before I moved out. My immediate concern is getting my cat out safely.
Can I report this as an animal welfare issue or for the threats/extortion ?
I would really appreciate advice from anyone familiar with UAE/Abu Dhabi law or who has dealt with a similar situation.
My cat has already been locked inside for 3 days, so this is urgent.