Feline guardians called to action

Animal welfare organisation wants to help create community that cares for strays

CAT Troopers Penang is rallying cat enthusiasts to join forces as guardians for vulnerable felines.

Its founder and president, Solomon ZY Teoh, said the organisation aspired to create a united community of cat lovers advocating for a better environment for cats.

“One pressing issue is the stray cat overpopulation, and we advocate for the humane trap-neuter-return (TNR) approach as the solution.

“This initiative will ensure healthier lives for the strays.

“We call on more people to support TNR initiatives and play a role in getting society to be more compassionate.

“Our mantra “Adopt, Don’t Shop” echoes through our mission, as choosing adoption over buying allows more stray animals to find loving homes, thus reducing the number of strays on the streets.

Teoh (second from right) and his team members showing limited-edition merchandise on sale at the fair.

“We would like everyone to oppose unethical breeding and be a part of the solution by opening their hearts and homes to these deserving animals,” said Teoh during the organisation’s Happy Meowment Charity Food Fair in Penang.

He added that the association also wanted to stop cruelty towards strays.

“We implore animal lovers to report cases of abuse, and if they find stray animals, try to provide food and water for them.

“This can create a harmonious coexistence between humans and feline friends.

“Other ways for the public to contribute to the cause are volunteering at animal shelters and spreading awareness about TNR, adoption and responsible pet ownership.

“They can also donate financially to fund spaying and neutering programmes as well as medical care and food for the cats.

“Each contribution, no matter the amount, counts,” Teoh said.

Lim Ghee Ming (left) and Low Mei Mei showing cat-themed cupcakes.

He added that Cat Troopers Penang was a fledgling organisation, having only registered with the Registrar of Societies in July 2022, but the organisation had a long-term vision for a world where cats and other creatures are protected just like human beings.

“We hope to work closely with Penang Island City Council in the near future to help them extend their TNR dog programme to cats.”

The Happy Meowment Charity Food Fair, held at Sia Boey Urban Archaeological Park, saw 43 booths selling food and items like costumes for pet cats.

A few thousand people turned up at the event to support the cause.

Goh Jit Sen, 36, bringing along his cat to the fair.

After checking out the booths, they indulged in the local cuisine on offer.

Some pet owners brought along their cats which were either on leashes and in clear acrylic backpacks.

There was also a Zumba dance class at the start of the event.

Teoh said they hoped to raise at least RM60,000 for various cat shelters in the state, and added that they planned to make the food fair an annual fundraising event.

For more information, check out Cat Troopers Penang’s social media pages.