39 cats seized from filthy cages inside a Yishun flat in cruelty probe

Authorities removed 39 cats from a Yishun HDB flat in February 2016 after the animals were found crammed into filthy cages in conditions described as deeply unsanitary. The Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) launched an investigation into possible animal cruelty following the discovery, which drew significant public concern over the welfare of the seized cats. All 39 animals were taken into custody for assessment and care as the probe got underway. The case highlighted ongoing tensions in Yishun and broader Singapore over illegal cat hoarding in public housing, where HDB regulations prohibit cat ownership outright.