Hundreds of Cats Rescued from Meat Trade in Vietnam
Wednesday, 2026/06/24197 words3 minutes834 reads
Vietnamese authorities have rescued more than 400 cats destined for slaughter after dismantling an alleged feline theft ring that operated across southern Vietnam. Nine individuals were arrested in connection with what police characterized as a criminal organization specializing in stealing and collecting cats for the meat trade.
Officers recovered over 400 live cats and approximately 80 deceased animals preserved on ice during coordinated raids on facilities in Tay Ninh Province and Ho Chi Minh City. The suspects confessed to systematically trapping and collecting cats throughout the region over a three-year period, transporting stolen animals to holding facilities before selling them to traders in transactions occurring every two to three days.
While the consumption of dog and cat meat remains legal in Vietnam, vendors are required to obtain permits demonstrating the legitimate origin of animals. Police initiated their investigation on June 11th following a surge in reported pet thefts in Ho Chi Minh City. Approximately 40 stolen cats have been reunited with their owners, though Humane World for Animals reported that several animals subsequently died from trauma sustained during their ordeal. The organization is currently providing sustenance and supplies for animals retained as evidence while the investigation continues.
