Address Surge in Cat Abandonment Cases

Target: Mr. Desmond Lee, Minister for National Development, Singapore

Goal: Save cats from being needlessly abandoned by loving homes.

A concerning increase in cat abandonment cases has been reported across Singapore, with independent rescuers and animal welfare organizations highlighting a surge since the announcement of the Cat Management Framework.

The framework, which allows pet owners to legally keep up to two cats in HDB flats and three in private residences, appears to have led to misunderstandings and fears among pet owners, resulting in a rise in abandonment cases. Animal welfare groups are urging the authorities to intensify public education on the framework’s provisions, emphasizing that owners can keep all their cats if licensed within a two-year grace period.

The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) and other organizations have seen a sharp increase in reported cases, surpassing last year’s figures. The Cat Welfare Society (CWS) and other groups are calling for enhanced efforts to address misinformation and prevent further abandonment.

This surge in abandonment highlights the need for better communication and stronger enforcement to protect cats from neglect and abandonment. Stricter penalties for abandonment, alongside a robust public education campaign, are crucial to ensure pet owners understand their responsibilities under the new framework. Take immediate action.

PETITION LETTER:

Dear Minister Desmond Lee,

I am deeply concerned about the recent increase in cat abandonment cases across Singapore. Since the introduction of the Cat Management Framework, reports of cat abandonments have surged, as highlighted by independent rescuers and animal welfare organizations. It appears that misinformation and misunderstanding of the framework have led to this troubling rise in cases.

I urge the Ministry of National Development to intensify public education efforts to ensure pet owners fully understand their responsibilities under the new framework. It is essential to emphasize that all cats can be kept if licensed within the two-year grace period. Additionally, stronger enforcement of penalties for abandonment is necessary to deter irresponsible behavior and protect the welfare of these animals.

Your immediate attention to this matter is critical to preventing further abandonment cases and ensuring the well-being of cats in Singapore.

Sincerely,

[Your Name Here]

Photo credit: Wahj