A Facebook user named Clouseau Puttiporn shared an update about a cat that survived the devastating fire at Chatuchak Pet Market. The cat, now under treatment at TH Animal Hospital, was discovered to be pregnant with three kittens, approximately one month into the pregnancy. She sustained burn injuries on her right hind leg, blistered feet, and suffered from smoke inhalation which caused lung issues. The cat is receiving IV fluids for dehydration and is under the care of Dr. Wutthi. The Elephant Nature Park Foundation, led by Saengduean Chailert, oversees her treatment.
The fire, which broke out on June 11, 2024, at the Srisomrat Market project in the Chatuchak area, is considered Thailand’s worst fire for pets, causing the deaths of an estimated 5,000 animals. Police Lieutenant General Trirong Phiewphan, Commander of the Central Institute of Forensic Science, along with a team of forensic officers, visited the scene on June 12, 2024, to conduct a thorough investigation. They discovered that among the survivors were hundreds of Siamese Fighting Fish, also known as Betta Fish, which have been reunited with their owners.
Lt. Gen. Trirong reported that the initial inspection of the pet building on June 11 revealed safety concerns due to residual heat and falling concrete fragments. The investigation team identified a potential point of origin for the fire based on information from a security guard. Preliminary findings indicated that the suspected origin contained electrical devices and revered items, including a Kuman Thong idol honored by the shop owner. An extensive investigation, involving professionals specializing in structural inspection and electrical appliances, will be conducted to determine the precise cause of the fire.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has responded to the incident by tightening regulations on the trading of animals at Chatuchak market’s pet zone. Traders are now required to apply for licenses from both the BMA and the Livestock Development Department. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt acknowledged that the exact number of animal deaths is still unclear due to many pet shops operating without licenses. He also revealed that there are approximately 200 other unlicensed pet shops across Bangkok that must apply for licenses by July 18. The BMA will provide 11,400 baht in compensation to each properly registered trader affected by the blaze.
In addition, Roger Lohanan, secretary-general of the Thai Animals Protection Association, along with a network of animal welfare protection groups, submitted a three-point proposal to the BMA. They are calling for a fact-finding probe into the fire by a neutral body, standardization of the pet market with an emphasis on animal safety, and strict enforcement of laws and regulations regarding the trade in animals.
Layin Petcharat, from the SOS Animal Thailand Foundation, an animal rights protection group, emphasized that her organization has long proposed that all pet shops be equipped with fire prevention systems. This suggestion has been rejected in the past on the grounds that traders, being animal lovers, could manage safety themselves. She also highlighted concerns about the safety and care of animals exhibited in shopping malls, noting they are often left overnight without proper attention.
As the investigation continues, the findings will be fast-tracked to ensure a thorough understanding of the fire’s cause and to prevent future incidents.
