SINGAPORE – Authorities are investigating a suspected case of animal cruelty after a stray cat was found severely injured in Punggol and later died from its wounds.
The National Parks Board (NParks) confirmed on May 13 that it is looking into the incident after being alerted to an injured cat near Block 326B Sumang Walk.
Animal welfare group Luni Singapore raised public concern on the same day through a Facebook post. They described the case as one of the most brutal they have encountered.
The cat, a male tabby affectionately known as Shere Khan or Papa Cat, was found badly hurt, likely on May 11 or 12. Although he received emergency veterinary treatment, he did not survive.
According to Luni Singapore, the nature of his injuries suggests deliberate abuse. Possible causes include strangulation or blunt force trauma.
“Shere Khan was a gentle, well-loved community cat known for his trusting nature,” the group said. They are appealing for witnesses, dashcam footage, or CCTV recordings from the area.
A spokesperson from the group told The Straits Times that Shere Khan was microchipped and registered under their care. Local feeders had looked after him, and a passer-by found him injured. The Animal and Veterinary Service contacted Luni Singapore on May 12 after being notified.
A veterinary report listed severe injuries: both eyes pushed out of their sockets, swelling and cuts on the tongue, facial bruising, a lesion on the head, and frayed claws on all paws. He was also hypothermic and dehydrated.
“These injuries are consistent with strangulation or blunt force trauma,” the group said. Emergency medical care cost about $260, which the group covered with help from community donations.
“We are devastated by this cruel act,” the spokesperson added. “We are working with authorities and urge anyone with information to step forward so justice can be served.”
This incident follows another disturbing case in Yishun just days earlier. A cat was found dead on May 9, disembowelled with its eyes gouged out.
Law and Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam, who is also MP for Nee Soon GRC, condemned the act in a Facebook post: “What kind of person will do this? This is not who we are as a people.”
In 2024, cats made up the majority of animal abuse reports in Singapore. The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) recorded 453 abuse cases, with 220 involving cats.
Forms of abuse include physical harm, inhumane trapping, abandonment, and intentional injury or killing.
