Animal welfare organisations raise concern over Argylle film
🐱Chip the cat, accompanied by Claudia Schiffer, steals the show at the London premiere of Argylle.
Read more: https://t.co/wp4J3fY2kV pic.twitter.com/CmgyVZE0fN
- Sky News (@SkyNews) January 25, 2024
Thought the photos of Chip the cat in a bubble backpack on the red carpet at the #Argylle premiere looked fun? Think again.
It’s extremely concerning to see a cat exposed to such a stressful environment while contained in an inappropriate carrier.https://t.co/59nqfH142l
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- Cats Protection (@CatsProtection) January 25, 2024
The Cats Protection charity's head of clinical services Alison Richards said “Though some cats may appear to tolerate backpacks, the movement on a person's back is unpredictable and most lack adequate ventilation and space for the cat - leaving them cramped or uncomfortable. The large window in the bubble backpack featured also means cats don't have the option to hide when they feel anxious, leaving them feeling exposed and vulnerable." They are worried that the “realistic portrayal in the film of the cat travelling in a backpack and being handled roughly could have a negative impact on cat welfare as it suggests these interactions are acceptable or entertaining.”
The charity also criticized the movie for using a Scottish fold, due to the health problems associated with the breed. “They’re already very popular on social media and with celebrities so we really worry that this film will cause this to surge even more.”
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