A viral video from Guangdong province, China, has sparked international outrage after showing hundreds of cats being released into a reservoir in what organizers described as a “merit-making” ceremony. The footage, recorded on November 1 near Anh Tuy Reservoir in Qingyuan city, shows cats panicking, climbing trees, and jumping into the water, while locals attempt to rescue exhausted animals.
A Controversial Twist on “Animal Release” Rituals
In Chinese and other East Asian traditions, releasing animals such as fish, turtles, or birds into the wild is a common practice meant to bring good fortune and spiritual merit. However, conservationists and animal welfare advocates have long warned that such acts can endanger local ecosystems and harm the animals themselves.
In this case, two large trucks carrying cages of cats arrived at the reservoir. As doors opened, dozens of terrified cats scrambled in all directions. Videos show some leaping into the water, forcing nearby boaters and locals to intervene.
One local resident told reporters: “We were paddleboarding nearby when cats suddenly appeared everywhere. Many were frightened and jumped into the water. We managed to rescue three, but others swam away and had to be guided to shore.”
Animal Welfare Groups Respond
The following day, animal rescue organizations rushed to the scene. Many cats were found cold, shivering, and weakened. Some did not survive. Authorities later confirmed that about 400 cats, totaling 1,500 kilograms, had been released by a group of ten people who said they intended to make merit and enjoy the natural scenery. The organizers reportedly left food for the cats, and officials noted that similar events had occurred in the past.
Despite the ethical concerns, local authorities said there was no evidence the participants had committed a crime.
Public Backlash
The event has reignited public debate over so-called “cat releases.” Social media users condemned the act as cruel and dangerous. One commenter wrote: “Releasing cats into a reservoir is not a spiritual ritual. It is large-scale animal cruelty.” Another criticized the group, suggesting that the animals may have been stolen to carry out the release.
Anh Tuy Reservoir has a history of such incidents. In August 2023, dozens of cats were found dead or sick following a similar release, highlighting the environmental and animal welfare risks of these mass events.
For many observers, the incident underscores the growing tension between traditional religious practices and modern animal welfare and ecological concerns.
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Source: Vietnam Insider