By Ethel Tseng
Copyright tnp
Cat lovers and residents of Bukit Batok East are at odds over makeshift cat houses placed by animal lovers around the estate, with some residents complaining about cleanliness.
On Sept 18, Minister of State for Health Rahayu Mahzam, posted photos on her Facebook page showing boxes and bowls set up at void decks for stray cats in the community.
She noted that during a house visit, a resident expressed concerns about the increasing number of makeshift cat houses in the estate, which had been set up by another resident who wanted to give the stray cats a place to rest. “On one hand, I understand the good intentions behind such gestures of care, but I also hear the concerns about cleanliness and tidiness in our estate.”
She added that while some of the boxes were removed later that night by the frustrated resident, a cleaner set them aside in case the other resident came looking for them.
The post had garnered over 165 comments and 67 shares at press time.
Animal lovers express frustration
Deon Lee, who identified himself as the resident who placed the boxes for the cats, said in the post’s comments that the box was “thrown onto the grass patch outside the RC office”, leaving the cat without shelter for several days.
“As a feeder myself, I also do my part by going around the community and clearing any leftover rubbish left by fellow feeders.”
Responding to concerns that the stray cats might inconvenience residents, he stressed that the felines do not bother residents unless provoked, and stressed the need for peaceful coexistence with the animals.
Other netizens agreed that the boxes did not seem to cause obstructions, as observed from the photos, while several proposed designated feeding areas.
“The cats are often obedient and I have no recollection of any instance where they have disturbed the residents,” commented another netizen who also said he was a resident.
Others raise hygiene concerns
However, others were adamant about hygiene concerns.
One user said: “First need to keep our estates neat and clean. If these people are concerned about the cats, they should find people who can adopt those stray cats.”
Another blamed irresponsible feeders. “Regular feeders do clean up after feeding the cats. It’s the spontaneous feeders who leave without clearing the unfinished food that is causing the problems,” one user wrote.
Several netizens agreed, suggesting a town hall to discuss residents’ concerns surrounding the issue.
The New Paper has reached out to Rahayu Mahzam for comment.
