Recently, the Chinese Embassy received letters, phone calls and emails from some British friends, who expressed concern for media reports about the eating of cat meat in some areas of Guangdong province in China. They would like to learn more about the Chinese government’s policies on it. Many of them believe that cats are good friends of human beings, and should be kindly treated.

The Chinese Embassy takes note of and understands these concerns. On the basis of information from relevant Chinese government departments, we are pleased to reply as follows: The Chinese government attaches great importance to the protection of wild animals, and has strictly observed relevant international conventions for the protection of endangered species. Although dogs and cats do not belong to protected animals, they are carefully and kindly attended to as pets. In many cities across China, special clinics and stores have been set up for dogs and cats to provide medical and other services. With China’s fast economic development and improved living standards, there has also been much more awareness for animal protection in China.

Dog and cat meat have not been approved for commercial consumption in China as food. China does not encourage or promote such consuming habits.

Local government departments in Guangdong have put the market under strict supervision in accordance with laws and regulations. They enforce strict market discipline on cat or dog meat products, which do not comply with quarantine standards, and they are also pursuing an awareness campaign against eating dog or cat meat.