Ampang: The stress and problems experienced by some individuals during the implementation of the Movement Control Order (PKP) has led to an increase in cases of cat abandonment and abuse since last year.

Malaysian Cat Club (KKM) president Khalid Rashid said, his party has rescued about 5,000 street cats over the past few years with more than 2,000 of them successfully handed over to new caregivers through the 'adopted cat' program.

"Compared to the year before PKP, the number of rescued cats was higher between last year and September. In fact, some of the rescued cats were also abused, including cats found in a state of burns due to being splashed with hot oil just for stealing food.

"We believe the increase in the number of cats discarded and abused during the period (PKP) may be due to stress and problems experienced by a few individuals to encourage them to do so," he said when met at the 'Give Back to Society' Project at the MOH shelter in Taman Ukay. Smart, here, today.

Also present were Suara Haiwan Malaysia President, Nashriq Ismail Sabri and Putra Nilai Veterinary Clinic staff, Dr Alia Azri.

Also in the program, about 100 vaccines to prevent the disease were provided to more than 100 cats at the shelter which was sponsored by the Putra Nilai Veterinary Clinic.

However, only healthy cats can be given the vaccine.

Khalid said, his party will continue the foster cat program that was carried out previously to ensure that the animals are well cared for as well as get love from new caretakers.

“Before PKP, we managed to hand over about 30 cats a day to new caregivers through the foster cat program conducted at the mall.

“We will continue this program so that more cats can be handed over to new caregivers.

“I advise people to take on the responsibility of looking after an adopted pet because most street cats come from homes before they were abandoned.

"For those who don't like cats, don't abuse animals by torturing them to the point of causing injury," he said.