A scene from a television show showing a black cat writhing on the ground has caused a stir in Thailand.
Concerned viewers of the Thai drama “The Empress of Ayodhaya” have questioned what is done to the animal to make its performance convincing, with some suggesting possible abuse and torture.
Despite the fact that the producers of the show are busy trying to assure the audience about the cat’s safety, the boycott campaign has become very popular on social media.
Authorities said they are investigating allegations of animal abuse.
In a controversial incident, a woman gives a cat her tea to check if it has been paying attention. After a while, the cat lies curled up and crumpled to the ground until it “dies”.
Social media users, including public figures, rushed to social media to express their anger about the possible mistreatment of the cat.
That concern has now overshadowed what was touted as one of the biggest Thai dramas of the year.
“The Empress of Ayodhaya” tells a story about the royal conflict during Ayutthaya, inspired by the story of a 16th-century Siamese queen.
Thai television channel One31 and the program’s director, Sant Srikaenlaw, said the cat was put under anesthesia under the supervision of a specialist. Sant added that the cat has regained consciousness, and promised to take it for a health check.
The producers of this program also included pictures and videos of this cat to show that it is safe and sound.
This did little to quell public anger.
The Veterinary Council of Thailand, which warned of the dangers of euthanizing animals, said it would take appropriate action against the case. Meanwhile, the Department of Animal Husbandry in Thailand said that it has started to investigate the allegations of animal abuse, adding that it has requested that the cat be examined to ensure that it is not harmed.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) issued a statement on Monday condemning the euthanasia of this cat for entertainment, describing it as “reckless, dangerous and cruel”.
“The public is rightly outraged, especially knowing that today, anything is possible with CGI, AI and animatronics,” the statement said. “If you can’t make a TV show without putting animals’ lives at risk, you’re in the wrong business.”
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