The owner of a cat cafe in Bang Khen district of Bangkok has been accused of animal cruelty after a video shared online showed him hitting the cats and throwing one against a wall.
The man has since closed the business, the Just Cat Cafe, and agreed to go through legal procedures. His name was not released.
The inspection followed an online video that showed severe animal abuse at the café when there were no customers.
The man was seen walking around a room full of cats. He hit some of them, using his hand and foot, and threw one against the wall and dragged it along the floor. He is also seen glancing at his hand, as if he had been scratched.
Netizens who said they had been to the Just Cat Cafe attested that many cats there suffered from a skin fungus which is encouraged by poor hygiene.
The video sparked widespread criticism and calls for authorities to intervene.
The owner told authorities that he had since permanently closed the cafe and he was willing to cooperate with the police and accept any legal penalties.
Animal welfare foundations were arranging for new homes for about 19 cats.
