The Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) has launched investigations on a case in which 94 cats were kept in cramped conditions in a two-room flat in Fernvale Link, according to a report by Today on June 27, 2017.
Rescue operations were conducted on Sunday, headed by 2 independent rescuers Ling May Choo and Fio Ho. The operation yesterday was assisted by other rescuers/volunteers. They work closely with Cat Welfare Society (CWS).
Facebook Live videos of the process were streamed on a page called Saving the Siameses.
According to a Facebook post by Saving the Siameses, all the 94 cats and kittens are "in dire straits." They reek of urine and poop, their bodies are stained with urine and caked-up poop stuck to their fur. Many of them have wounds filled with pus, some felines are with missing eyeballs, and a whole lot of them are having cat flu.
In another post, which featured photographs of the operation, the administrator said that the situation was so "gross" that some rescuers with nose allergies and sensitive skin had to put on masks and gloves.
An AVA spokesperson told Today that it is aware of the cat-hoarding case. “As there are alleged welfare issues, AVA is investigating,” he added.
These cats were allegedly kept by a backyard breeder who could no longer afford to care for the animals.
The rescue operation spanned about four hours. The cats would be temporarily housed at the Pet Boarding Centre before potential fosterers step forward. “We do not wish to pass (the cats) over in haste as many (potential adopters) will come forward out of sympathy, not knowing what they are landing themselves into," said the administrator of the Saving the Siameses Facebook page.
“Of course the boarding is not long term, as ultimately the aim is to rehome (the cats) to let them start afresh. They deserve a good loving home," the admin added.
The rescuers will need help in the form of donations from the public to help with the costs of medical and boarding of the cats.
Fund raising has started on the page set up for this rescue operation. If you would like to donate to help the cats, please click on this link: https://www.facebook.com/savingthesiameses. Alternatively, you may DM the rescuers on Instagram @fioloh or @ling.m.choo.
