Rescuers report rise in abandoned cats during Raya period

 They warn that more cats are being left behind in the balik kampung rush, though some still get a second chance.

Persatuan Haiwan Terbiar Malaysia founder Kalaivanan Ravichandran urged Malaysians to be responsible pet owners, including spaying and neutering their pets to prevent unwanted litters.

PETALING JAYA:

 In a bustling wet market, the muffled cries of several cats could be heard from inside a cardboard box.

Inside were a mother cat and her four kittens, left with litter, kibbles and tissues – a sign they had once belonged to someone.

For animal rescuer Norashikin Ahmad, such cases are not unusual. During the Hari Raya Aidilfitri period, she says rescuers like herself see a noticeable rise in abandoned cats.

“Every Hari Raya, we see an increase in cats being dumped at markets, restaurants, or near animal shelters.

“We notice this when new cats suddenly appear at areas where we feed strays, sometimes left together with litter boxes or food,” the Star Shelter founder told FMT.

Persatuan Haiwan Terbiar Malaysia (SAFM) has similarly observed that rescue groups and feeders encounter more abandoned animals during major festive periods.

SAFM founder Kalaivanan Ravichandran said while Malaysia lacks official statistics on festive-season pet abandonment, many animals found at markets or restaurants appear to have been previously owned, based on their friendly behaviour and clean condition.

“SAFM believes several factors may contribute to this situation. Festive seasons often involve travel, family visits, and increased financial commitments.

“Some pet owners return to their hometowns and may struggle to find temporary care for their pets. Others may not plan ahead for boarding or pet sitters,” he said.

Norashikin and Kalaivanan said cost and convenience are key factors, as some owners want to avoid paying for boarding or fail to secure spaces before travelling.

“Instead of planning ahead, some people take the easy way out and just abandon their cats,” Norashikin said.

She said this places additional strain on shelters and rescuers already operating with limited resources, increasing the cost of food, treatment and care.

A silver lining for abandoned cats

Despite the challenges, some cats are rescued and given a second chance. Star Shelter regularly feeds strays and takes in sick or vulnerable animals while preparing others for adoption.

“These cats can still find new homes, especially the friendly ones,” Norashikin said.

She said many abandoned cats, particularly kittens, face serious dangers such as traffic and attacks from other animals, which puts their survival at risk.

Kalaivanan urged Malaysians to be responsible pet owners, including spaying and neutering their pets to prevent unwanted litters.

“Pet owners who are travelling during festive seasons should plan ahead by arranging a pet sitter, boarding service, or asking trusted family members or neighbours to help care for their pets.

“Hari Raya is a time of compassion and kindness, and we hope Malaysians will extend that compassion to animals by treating their pets as part of the family, rather than abandoning them when it becomes inconvenient.” - FMT