Police in Vietnam have rescued more than 500 cats after uncovering what authorities describe as one of the country’s largest cat welfare cases in recent years.

The operation took place in Ho Chi Minh City after police launched an investigation into a series of pet thefts. According to local reports, officers tracked the thefts to a suspected cat meat trafficking network operating across southern Vietnam. During the raids, authorities found around 400 live cats inside 45 cages and approximately 80 dead cats stored in ice-filled containers. Police also recovered 21 additional live cats at a separate location.

Nine individuals were detained as part of the investigation. Authorities said the suspects admitted to trapping and collecting cats from several areas, including Ho Chi Minh City, Tay Ninh, and An Giang, over the past three years.

Animal welfare organizations assisting with the rescue said more than 40 cats have already been reunited with their owners. Families have been visiting rescue centers in search of missing pets, leading to emotional reunions for some. However, many owners were unable to find their animals among those rescued.

Several rescued cats were found in poor condition, and dozens later died because of the harsh environment in which they had been kept. Veterinarians and volunteers have been working around the clock to provide medical care, food, and shelter to the surviving animals. Some of the rescued cats were pregnant, and several kittens have been born since the animals were taken into care.

Animal welfare advocates say the case highlights the scale of Vietnam’s cat meat trade. Campaigners estimate that thousands of cats are stolen, trafficked, and slaughtered for meat across the country each month. While the consumption of dog and cat meat remains legal in Vietnam, vendors are required to have permits that verify the origin of the animals.

The rescue operation has sparked public discussion about animal welfare and pet protection. Advocates hope the case will encourage stronger safeguards for pets and raise awareness about the impact of the illegal cat trafficking trade.