SPCA finds kitten covered in glue & abandoned in plastic bag in Ang Mo Kio

A harrowing case of animal cruelty has reignited concerns over the use of glue traps in Singapore, after a kitten was found covered in glue and abandoned in a plastic bag by the roadside.

According to an Instagram post on Apr. 14, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) Singapore said that they were alerted to the case on Dec. 2, 2024.

In response to Mothership's queries, the animal welfare organisation confirmed that the kitten was found at Jalan Chempedak.

Body completely matted with glue, left under scorching sun

In the video they shared, the kitten's body could be seen completely matted with a sticky substance believed to be from a rat glue trap.

It was found laying on the grass conscious but motionless, inside a red plastic bag.

SPCA said that the kitten likely became ensnared in the trap before being sealed in the plastic bag and left under the scorching sun.

SPCA said that by the time rescuers arrived, it was terrified and in visible distress.

SPCA's Animal Rescue Officer then took the kitten to the organisation's Community Animal Clinic, where veterinary staff worked for hours to remove the glue from his fur through a "painstaking and delicate" process.

Treated and adopted

After receiving vaccinations, parasite preventatives, and going through weeks of rehabilitation to restore his physical health and emotional trust in humans, the kitten, now named Rolly, was later adopted on Jan. 5, 2025.

"This is the immense cruelty of glue traps. Often marketed as an 'easy' solution to pest problems, they are inhumane," SPCA wrote.

The organisation also highlighted how other animals, such as birds, lizards and community animals may get caught in such traps and suffer "slow and agonising deaths".

As the incident occurred in a residential area, SPCA noted that there might be CCTV footage of the incident.

However, they also noted that SPCA Inspectors are unable to obtain the footage unless residents or authorities provide it voluntarily.

The case has since been escalated to the Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS) for further investigation.

The SPCA has urged the public to stay alert and take immediate action if they encounter similar cases.

What to do if you find an animal trapped in glue

• Secure the animal: Do not attempt to remove it from the trap. Place the animal in a sheltered space if it's safe to do so.
• Keep it in sight: If securing is not possible, remain nearby until help arrives.
• Document the scene: Take clear photos or videos to aid in investigations.
• Report promptly: Contact the SPCA or relevant authorities immediately to ensure timely intervention

Members of the public may also call these hotlines for assistance:

• SPCA: 6287 5355 (ext. 9)
• AVS: 1800 476 1600
• Police: 999
• Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (Acres) Wildlife Rescue: 9783 7782

Top photos via Society for the Prevention of Cruelty