A scene from a television series showing a black cat convulsing on the ground has caused uproar in Thailand.
Concerned viewers of Thai drama “The Empress of Ayodhaya” have wondered what was done to the animal to make its performance so convincing, with some suggesting potential mistreatment and abuse.
Despite the efforts of the series' producers to reassure the public about the cat's safety, a boycott campaign has gained ground on social media.
Authorities said they were investigating allegations of animal abuse.
In the controversial scene, a woman makes a cat drink her tea to check if it has been fortified. Moments later, the cat lies on the ground purring and writhing until it “dies.”
Social media users, including public figures, quickly took to social media to express their anger over the cat's possible mistreatment.
These concerns now cast a shadow over what was billed as one of the biggest Thai dramas of the year.
“The Empress of Ayodhaya” tells a story about royal tensions during the Ayutthaya period, inspired by the story of a 16th-century Siamese queen.
Thai television channel One31 and the show's director, Sant Srikaenlaw, said the cat was placed under anesthesia under the supervision of experts. Sant added that the cat had regained consciousness and promised to take it for a check-up.
The show's producers also released photos and videos of the cat to prove that it was safe and healthy.
This did little to quell public anger.
The Veterinary Council of Thailand, which has warned of the dangers of sedating animals, said it would take appropriate action in this case. Meanwhile, Thailand's Livestock Department said it had begun investigating allegations of animal cruelty, adding that it had asked to examine the cat to ensure it had not been harmed.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) issued a statement Monday condemning the cat's anesthesia for entertainment purposes, calling it “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 risking the lives of animals, you’re doing it wrong.”
