The disappearance of 14 cats - Chinese Youths Suspected of Filming Abuse for Profit

Hi Everyone, I have been informed of an investigation that is happening in Padua, Italy surrounding Chinese youths being suspected of the disappearance of 14 cats.

Four young men of Chinese origin are currently under investigation after fourteen cats disappeared from a cat colony and surrounding areas of the Stanga listrict in Padua, Italy, between 2024 and 2025

Only four of the missing cats have reportedly been found so far. According to Italian media reports, some of those recovered showed signs of severe physical deterioration, including cut wounds, patches of torn fur, and severe malnutrition.

Authorities became aware of the case when the woman caring for the cat colony reported the disappearances.

Witnesses said they had seen young men near the colony, including at night, carrying cat cariers, flashlights, and adhesive tape. Others reported seeing attempts to lure cats using food and toys. When asked what they were doing, the young men reportedly said they were looking for cats.

The lawyer representing the colony's caregiver has raised concerns about what may have happened to the cats after they disappeared.

"I would like to understand what these cats were being used for, My strong suspicion is that they were used or torture videos to be put online for a fee.” she said.

This has not been established as fact, it is the lawyer's suspicion and remains one of the questions investigated by authorities.

The concerns raised in this case also reflect a wider international problem. 

Investigations by animal-rights groups, international organisations, including Feline Guardians, and international media have identified China as a major source of online cat-abuse material, with networks operating across borders and content being distributed internationally.

This is why robust animal protection laws in China are vital to help dismantle these abuse networks and prevent the monetization and spread of cat abuse online. Strong legal enforcement would help hold those involved accountable, restrict access to such  content, and challenge the normalization of cat cruelty.

Thank you to all the people that have signed the petition so far!