28-5-2023 (HANOI) Nguyễn Thúy Hải, affectionately known as ‘Catwoman’, has spent the past two decades rescuing and nurturing cats in the capital city. Despite residing in a modest apartment, Hải currently shares her space with 29 cats, sacrificing her own bedroom to ensure their comfort.
Hải’s love for these creatures stems from a deep sense of compassion. She started building her feline family 24 years ago after witnessing numerous instances of abandonment, injury, and mistreatment of cats.
Over the years, Hải has saved countless felines, although she finds it difficult to recall the exact number. “The amount of cats I have saved is huge, so it’s hard to remember the exact number. But I think a few hundred,” she shared.
Each cat that finds refuge in Hải’s home is given a unique name that reflects their distinctive characteristics. Every feline leaves an indelible mark on her memory.
“I remember a cat named Khoang,” Hải recounted. “One afternoon, two children brought a cat in a cloth bag to my house. They had heard that only I could save the cat. I couldn’t refuse the two kids. I nursed the cat back to health from paralysis, and now Khoang can walk. Her gait is not like that of a normal cat, but I am delighted that she can move around. She has been living with me for seven years.”
Hải’s efforts in rescuing cats have touched the lives of hundreds of felines, each with their own heart-wrenching stories. Whether they are lost, abandoned, or injured, Hải tirelessly works to reunite them with their owners or find them new homes. Those requiring medical attention receive the care they need, and if no one comes forward to claim them, she provides a loving home.
“People only abandon cats when they are sick and almost impossible to care for. They don’t want to invest their time and money, so they simply abandon them,” Hải explained. Her dedication to cats extends beyond providing them shelter; she devotes all her time to their well-being. Unable to take holidays or leave her house frequently, Hải remains devoted to the constant care her feline companions require.
Her day begins early, preparing meals and medications for all the cats. Nourishment is provided in the form of porridge supplemented with vitamins to ensure their health. Hải’s responsibilities include cleaning their living space, preparing the meals, and feeding those unable to feed themselves.
“I always wake up at 7am to prepare meals and medicine for all the cats. First, I clean their living area, then I mix the porridge and feed the cats that are unable to eat on their own,” Hải shared. “Taking care of all 29 cats keeps me occupied until around 2pm. After a brief rest, I give them their afternoon treat. In the evening, I feed them again at around 10pm. Three meals a day are sufficient to keep them healthy.”
Hải has found immense joy in sharing her life with the cats she cares for as if they were her own children. She hopes that pet owners will become more responsible and compassionate, understanding the commitment and care required in raising animals.
“I will continue to rescue and care for these cats as long as I have the health and strength. However, I hope that there is a kind-hearted person out there willing to adopt them and provide them with a happy life,” she expressed. “I simply want to emphasize that if you choose to raise cats, you must provide them with a safe and secure life while being loving and responsible.”
