Owner of Cuddles Cat Cafe puts business up for sale after cat deaths

SINGAPORE - A cat cafe that was under investigation over the deaths of seven cats is now up for sale.

In a lengthy Facebook post made by the owner of Cuddles Cat Cafe on Wed, Dec 17, Mr Jonathan Tan apologised for the deaths of the cats and expressed remorse over purchasing the cats in the cafe instead of adopting them.

Mr Tan wrote: "Under my care, 7 Cats died in a one year time-period: Accidents from sterilization surgery, as well as the fatal FIP disease. My inexperience resulted to these issues. I am very sorry towards Cookies, Puffy, Earl Grey, Munchy, Pumpkin, Foxy and Cream."

Mr Tan also apologised for the lapses in staff training, and explained the circumstances under which several ex-employees were infected with Ringworm, a fungal infection which they caught from some of the cats.

He added that he would be putting the business, located at *Scape along Orchard Road, up for sale.

 "I am seeking forgiveness from the public, and to express my upmost regret and remorse on the current situation.

"After thorough consideration, I believe that in the best interest of our cats, they should be kept together as a family under a new owner.

"Hence, Cuddles Cat Cafe will be offered up for a business takeover. For interested parties, you may drop us a message."

The announcement comes a day after the cafe acknowledged that seven cats had died under its care "due to sterilisation and veterinary complications".

The Straits Times and Channel NewsAsia also reported that the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) was investigating the cafe over the deaths, but AVA has not issued an update of its investigations so far.

A former staff member told Channel NewsAsia that no proper training was provided to staff on handling and taking care of the cats. Staff were directed to watch YouTube videos on how to bathe cats, alleged the ex-employee, a claim which was refuted by Mr Tan.

candicec@sph.com.sg