Three Asian Nations Where Cat Meat Consumption Persists

Police in Vietnam have dismantled a major underground cat trafficking ring, rescuing more than 400 live cats in Ho Chi Minh City and arresting nine suspects believed to be involved in a pet theft syndicate. Many of the rescued animals have been reunited with their owners. The trade persists despite being illegal, with cat meat often served in stews or soups.

China is known as the world’s largest consumer of cat and dog meat. Across various provinces, the meat is commonly prepared in soups or steaks, with consumers believing it offers health benefits such as boosting metabolism. Reports indicate that more than four million kittens are consumed in the country each year.

In Cambodia, the non-profit organisation Four Paws estimates that over one million cats are slaughtered annually for human consumption. The majority of these animals are either stolen pets or captured strays, fuelling a lucrative but controversial culinary practice.