In a significant win for animal welfare advocates, a controversial restaurant and slaughterhouse in Vietnam known for serving cat meat has closed its doors after five years in operation. The establishment, which reportedly processed and served nearly 300 cats each month, will soon transition into a grocery store thanks to a partnership with the animal protection organization Humane Society International.
A Dark History of Serving Cat Meat
For years, the restaurant specialized in “thịt mèo,” a dish made from cat meat. Its closure marks an end to a business that was both controversial and deeply troubling to animal rights activists.
Pham Quoc Doanh, the restaurant owner, admitted to drowning the animals before using their meat to create soups and other dishes for his customers. “I deeply regret my actions,” he said in a statement. “Many of the cats slaughtered were likely stolen pets.”
In Vietnam, cat theft is a common issue, with many of the animals being snatched from homes or the streets. Doanh’s confession acknowledges the grim reality that much of his inventory likely consisted of stolen family pets, a fact he says he now regrets deeply.
Rescuing the Survivors
When the restaurant and slaughterhouse shut down, 20 surviving cats were found on the property. Humane Society International rescued the animals and is now working to place them in shelters for adoption.
“These cats and kittens narrowly escaped a horrific fate,” said Quang Nguyen, a representative of the Humane Society in Vietnam. “Our work doesn’t end here. We will continue advocating until there is a national ban on the trade and consumption of cat meat.”
The closure has reignited calls for stronger legal protections for animals in Vietnam, where an estimated one million cats are still killed annually for their meat.
Changing Perceptions About Cat Meat
According to a 2023 survey, 71% of Vietnamese citizens support banning the sale and consumption of cat meat. Yet, cultural beliefs persist in some communities, where eating cat meat is thought to bring good luck or alleviate suffering.
Quang Nguyen emphasizes that the majority of Vietnamese people do not consume cat meat. However, the practice persists in pockets of the country, often fueled by superstition rather than necessity.
A Step Toward Progress
While the restaurant’s closure is a step in the right direction, advocates know there is much more to be done. Humane Society International hopes that transforming the space into a grocery store will send a message that businesses can thrive without relying on harmful or controversial practices.
For the 20 cats rescued, this closure represents a second chance. For the millions still at risk, it’s a hopeful sign that change may be on the horizon.
This story serves as a reminder of the power of advocacy and the importance of protecting all animals, whether they’re beloved pets or strays in need of care. It’s a small but significant victory in the ongoing fight for animal welfare.
