Young Man Spends Half His Salary Caring For Stray Cats

Wan Syahmi Hariz Wan Sufazri, 24, said he began taking in strays seven years ago, starting with a female cat he named Nana.

He found the cat weak and sickly in a drain near his old home in Batu Rakit, Kuala Nerus, and brought it home to nurse it back to health.

“After that, the number of stray cats we cared for kept increasing. Some were brought home by my mother from her workplace, some we found by the roadside, and some were abandoned in front of our house.

“At one point, I was caring for about 40 cats. Now, there are only 26 left after some died or went missing,” he said when met at his home today.

Wan Syahmi Hariz said he spends around RM1,500 each month on cat food and litter.

The cost can rise to RM2,500 a month if any of the cats fall sick and require medical treatment or medication.

However, the eldest of three siblings said he was fortunate to have the full support of his parents, who not only help financially but also assist with caring for the cats.

“To be honest, my entire salary goes to the cats’ needs. I don’t get to enjoy luxuries like branded mobile phones like some of my friends.

“But I feel fulfilled and grateful that I can take care of these abandoned animals. To me, these cats are the most valuable treasure,” he said, adding that he hopes to open a proper cat shelter one day.

Wan Syahmi Hariz said the cats are kept in a cage built beside the house, and they are let out to play in turns, according to a schedule.

He said he monitors their movements closely to ensure their safety and avoid disturbing the neighbours.

“The cage is a bit cramped, so I let them out to play now and then for their health. I’ve always wanted to expand the enclosure, but money is tight.

“Even this cage was built with help from my parents. God willing, if I have the means, I will build a more comfortable space for them,” he said.

-- BERNAMA