Woman abandoned cat in Choa Chua Kang as it was not toilet-trained and dirtying her house

A woman abandoned a male ginger cat because it was not toilet-trained and was dirtying her house with its urine and faeces.

The Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) was alerted to the case after the cat was found at the void deck of Block 815C Choa Chu Kang Avenue 7 in May.

Investigations revealed that Siti Afza Binte Nooriani, 27, had placed the cat in a cardboard box and left it at the void deck.

The cat was rescued and placed under foster care.

It was found to be suffering from a left aural haematoma and severe skin infection.

It also did not receive any veterinary care when it was under Siti's care.

She was fined $2,000 for pet abandonment and $2,500 for failure in duty of care today (Dec 6).

The AVA would like to remind the public that owning a pet is a lifelong commitment.

It said: "Existing and potential pet owners must understand the care and responsibility that comes with owning a pet.

"AVA takes a stern view on pet abandonment.

"AVA investigates all feedback on animal welfare/cruelty, including pet abandonment, and will take enforcement action, where necessary."

Individuals who abandon their pets or fail in their duty of care toward their pets can face a fine of up to $10,000 and/or be jailed for up to 12 months, if convicted for the first time.

"Safeguarding animal welfare is a shared responsibility that requires the cooperation of all stakeholders, including the public.

"While AVA continues to ensure that the necessary enforcement action is taken and to raise awareness on animal welfare, members of the public can play their part by being vigilant," the AVA added.

The public should promptly report cases of animal welfare issues to AVA via their 24-hour hotline, 1800- 476-1600, or via their website.

Providing photographic and/or video-graphic evidence will help them in their investigations.

All information shared with the AVA will be held in strict confidence