Around 30 cats were allegedly neglected at a house in Kampung Chemomoi, Bentong, resulting in the deaths of two of the animals.
Chairperson of the Kelab Sahabat Kucing Jalanan Pahang (SKJP), Jurina Abdul Rani, said the animals were believed to have been kept in extremely poor conditions, with the house reportedly filled with dirt and unpleasant odours.
She said a police report and a complaint to the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) had been lodged against the individual involved to allow further investigation.
“The investigation is important as the complainant alleged that the individual had previously been linked to several animal neglect cases in Ulu Langat, Rawang and Cameron Highlands.
“However, all allegations will be left to the authorities to investigate and verify officially,” she told Sinar Harian on Wednesday.
The case gained public attention after a social media post highlighted an official complaint involving alleged excessive animal hoarding activities at the premises.
The post included details of a report submitted through the DVS MyAnimalWelfare system dated July 12, stating that the location housed 30 cats, three chickens and one rabbit, while two cats were found dead.
Jurina said police and DVS should conduct a thorough investigation, including inspecting the premises and assessing the condition of the remaining animals with the assistance of veterinary officers.
She added that all evidence, including veterinary reports, photographs, videos and witness statements, should be properly documented to support the investigation.
“If any animals are still under the care of the individual and are found to be suffering or at risk of suffering, immediate protection measures should be considered according to the law,” she said.
Jurina stressed that her organisation was not seeking punishment without proper investigation or legal procedures, but wanted the report to be given appropriate attention.
She said the investigation must be carried out professionally and transparently, adding that legal action should be taken if sufficient evidence of neglect or abuse is established.
She also reminded that the Animal Welfare Act 2015 requires owners and caretakers to provide basic needs for animals, including suitable living conditions, food, clean water, medical treatment and proper protection.
“Animals under human care depend entirely on their caretakers for survival. Any death caused by negligence should not be taken lightly as it may have been prevented through proper care and attention,” she said.
Jurina urged the authorities to provide updates on the investigation to maintain public confidence in animal welfare enforcement.
She also encouraged members of the public with information or evidence related to animal neglect or abuse cases to submit reports through official DVS channels, including the MyAnimalWelfare system, and cooperate with investigators.
