Singaporeans Erupt in Defense of Community Cats

SINGAPORE: The ongoing debate about the presence of community cats in public housing has ignited passionate responses from residents after an HDB (Housing and Development Board) resident expressed strong discontent regarding the practice.

In a recent post on the Complaint Singapore Facebook page, the resident shared images depicting a designated space for community cats. This area featured a cozy bed, a feeding bowl, a cardboard box serving as a makeshift shelter, and signs put up by the caretakers, all aimed at providing comfort for the feline inhabitants.

The resident questioned why individuals don’t simply keep the cats in their own homes, pointing out that cats are now permitted in HDB flats following a recent shift in policy. He provocatively asked, “Community cats? Hey, shall we have community dogs, too? If someone in every block does what you do, then what will happen?” The contention escalated when he labeled the act of caring for community cats as “littering, even with good intentions.”

The reaction from the online community was swift and overwhelmingly negative toward the resident’s views. Many commenters expressed confusion and frustration, with one remarking, “Which part of community cat do you not understand?” Another user urged the post author to “leave the cats alone” and stop interfering with those striving to help. A third commenter explained that the community cat in question had been abandoned and highlighted their efforts to find a permanent home for her, pleading, “If you have a suitable candidate, please let us know. We spend our time and money to keep her safe and alive.”

While the majority of the comments sided with the cat advocates, one user urged for greater empathy towards the post author, arguing that just as some people have an aversion to dogs, others might feel the same about cats.

This heated discussion comes on the heels of a significant policy change announced earlier this year, which lifted a longstanding 35-year prohibition on keeping cats in HDB units. MP Louis Ng of Nee Soon GRC, known for his unwavering commitment to environmental and animal welfare causes, celebrated this historic change, stating on Facebook, “Finally, finally, finally after so many years of speaking up and pushing for change, we will allow the keeping of cats in HDB flats!”

Community cats, a common sight in Singapore’s public spaces, have historically been cherished by many residents. These felines are typically looked after by volunteers who feed and care for them across various neighborhoods. To ensure their well-being, community cats are often sterilized, with their left ear tipped as a clear sign of their status.

Numerous volunteer groups and organizations, such as the Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS), are actively engaged in supporting community cat initiatives, providing guidelines for responsible caregiving. As this debate continues to unfold in Singapore, it highlights a broader conversation about animal welfare, community responsibility, and the evolving relationship between humans and animals in urban environments.