Bangkok: The Director-General of the Department of Livestock Development has announced plans to submit findings from an investigation into the use of anesthesia on a cat during a TV drama scene to the Bang Pu Police Station for potential prosecution. The investigation revealed that a model, not a veterinarian, performed the injection, prompting the Director-General to file a complaint against the cat owner and others involved under the Animal Cruelty Act.
According to Thai News Agency, Veterinarian Somchuan Rattanamangalanon, leading the Department of Livestock Development, has tasked the Animal Welfare and Veterinary Services Division alongside the Legal Department to investigate claims related to the TV series “Mae Yua.” The series allegedly included a scene where cats were sedated to appear poisoned, which is a violation under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and Welfare Act B.E. 2557. Those involved with the series have been asked to provide statements and present the cats involved for examination on
November 13, 2024, at the Department of Livestock Development’s headquarters.
AI and Deep Learning analyses, conducted with the help of Logisense Co., Ltd. and the Makers Association of Thailand, confirmed an 80% match between the cats used in the series and those examined, suggesting they are likely the same. The physical examination revealed no health issues, with normal findings in X-rays, skin checks, and blood tests.
The investigation revealed that the cat owner, hired for the drama scene filmed on September 4, 2024, at Ancient City in Samut Prakan Province, admitted to using veterinary-grade sedatives despite lacking a veterinary license. He was reportedly compensated by the drama production team for this act.
The Department of Livestock Development will proceed with legal action against the cat owner and others implicated for animal cruelty and failing to provide proper welfare, as per Sections 20 and 22 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act B.E. 2557. The complaint will be officially lodged w
ith the Bang Pu Police Station, where the incident occurred, on November 20, 2024, at 11:00 a.m.