On 18 October 2023, in a shocking incident of suspected animal abuse, an owner in Hong Lok Yuen’s residential area made a distressing discovery.

While reclaiming their property in the presence of law enforcement officers, they stumbled upon approximately 35 adult mongrel cats left behind.

At the time, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) initially assessed the felines’ health conditions as normal. However, upon a visit from HK Cats Adoption, on the following day (20th), the true extent of the cats’ dire situation became apparent. The premises reeked of concentrated urine, and many cats exhibited various health issues, with one suffering from epilepsy and currently receiving urgent veterinary care.

Upon entering the Hong Lok Yuen residential area, representatives from the cat shelter were confronted with an abhorrent environment, characterized by a thick layer of excrement and urine at the bottom of the cages. They noted that a majority of the cats seemed unwell, displaying unsteady movement, possibly indicating peritonitis, excessive drooling, oral inflammation, and skin problems. HK Cats Adoption revealed that most of the 35 adult mongrel cats had not been sterilized and ranged in age from 1 to 16 years.

As of the 21st of October, the shelter has taken in three cats in critical condition, while the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has received eight. Additionally, two cats have already found new homes, while the remaining cats are temporarily housed with volunteers who will arrange their medical examinations at a later stage. The cat shelter expressed their understanding that the tenants of Hong Lok Yuen faced no financial difficulties, leaving the motive behind such mistreatment unclear.

One cat was afflicted with epilepsy, and experienced recurring seizures, prompting immediate measures such as anti-seizure medication, intravenous fluids, blood tests, ultrasound scans, and oxygen therapy. The examination results revealed elevated white blood cell count, signs of inflammation in the body, potential urinary tract infection, and abnormal kidney shape, indicating a possible case of nephritis.

Due to Yuan Yuan’s unsteady gait upon arrival at the shelter, they suspect a dry form of peritonitis as well. Presently, Yuan Yuan is under observation in an oxygen chamber within the shelter.

Main Source: The Standard