Cats of Bangkok, Thailand: Photos Of Stray Soi Cats In Bangkok

Bangkok is infamously regarded as a whirlpool of a city that chaotically sucks up anything in its path. I absolute love the gritty aspect this city has to offer.

Anybody who has spent significant time roaming about the streets and back-alleys likely would have noticed a few furry little feline friends wandering around Bangkok which is simply littered with cats.

Some are cared for, adored and exalted at a level often only seen in certain cultures; yet, many are feral and left to scrounge for leftover scraps dodging human activity and a plethora of vehicles whizzing on by. It’s survival of the fittest for the ones left to fend for themselves.

I’m personally a sucker for cats and I hold a soft spot for them. They’re also one of my favourite subjects for photography – whether they’re leaping and bounding for scraps of food or comfortably stretched out in the sun dozing off in a state of bliss.

The following is a photo essay of the cats of Bangkok:

Photos: Cats Of Bangkok, Thailand

I love candid shots of people and that extends to animals as well. Here I’ve captured this skittish cat just as it notices me.” alt=”I love candid shots of people and that extends to animals as well. Here I’ve captured this skittish cat just as it notices me.

A closer up shot of the same cat having looking a lot more relaxed in its demeanour.

I often envy how comfortable cats look when they’re resting/sleeping. This cat is completely stretched out on top of a table.

This is a close-up shot of the cat from the previous photo. Did I wake you? Sorry, you can go back to sleep now 🙂

A close-up shot of a well cared for domestic cat with big eyes and an inquisitive looking face – Bangkok, Thailand.

I think I smell fish! 😛

This kitty is enjoying an opportunistic moment to grab some fish while they’re being left unattended by a shop owner at a local market – Bangkok, Thailand.

A black and white shot of the same kitty losing it’s grip as it slides back down.

This street cat wonders if I have a nice can of tuna in my hand. I’m sorry. I’ve got nothing but my camera.

This cat is blissfully asleep on the ground under a table.

A close-up shot of its face.

Late at night, this cat with lovely eyes, takes a moment to pose for me before scrounging in the plastic bag for leftover scraps of food – Bangkok, Thailand.

This is an example of a mangy looking feral cat on the streets of Khao San road. You can tell from it’s coat of fur and lanky frame that it just barely gets by day to day.

This multicoloured cat is lying on top of a restaurant table. I love how the Thai people are so relaxed about things and permit something like this to happen quite often.

This kitten is just relaxing as it looks around.

This scrawny looking cat pauses briefly before suddenly dashing off under the bicycle.

Stray Cats Of Bangkok, Thailand: Soi Cats

If you visit Bangkok, you’ll quickly notice that the city is home to a large population of street cats. These cats are known as “soi cats,” which means street cats in Thai. They are a mix of different breeds, and their appearances can vary greatly. These cats have become a beloved part of the city’s fabric and have even become a cultural phenomenon.

There are several reasons why Bangkok has such a large population of street cats. First of all, the climate in Thailand is warm and humid, which is ideal for cats to thrive. Secondly, cats are highly valued in Thai culture and are often considered good luck. Many locals leave food and water out for the cats and provide them with medical care when needed.

One of the most famous places to find cats in Bangkok is at the Wat Phra Kaew temple complex. The temple has a large population of cats that are considered sacred by locals and are well cared for by the temple staff. Visitors to the temple can often be seen taking photos and interacting with the friendly feline inhabitants.

The Bangkok cats are known for their friendly and playful nature. They are often seen interacting with locals and tourists and are not afraid of people. Many visitors to Bangkok find themselves taking photos and spending time with these friendly creatures.

When it comes to the street cats of Bangkok, their presence is truly a unique aspect of the city’s culture. For starters, the cats are known to roam freely throughout the city. You can find them in public spaces, markets, and even in the alleyways between buildings. While they may appear to be strays, many of these cats are well taken care of by locals who leave food and water out for them. They have become an integral part of the city’s landscape, with many locals and tourists considering them a beloved part of the city’s charm.

While the cats can come in all shapes and sizes, many of them are small and wiry. Their fur can range from sleek and black to fluffy and white, and their eyes can be anything from bright green to deep blue. The soi cats of Bangkok are often a mix of different breeds, which contributes to their unique appearances. However, despite their differences in appearance, they all share one trait in common: their playful and friendly nature.

For those looking for a more immersive experience with the cats of Bangkok, there is a popular cat cafe called Caturday Cafe. The cafe allows visitors to enjoy coffee and snacks while hanging out with friendly feline friends. The cats at the cafe are well cared for and are happy to play with visitors. This is a great way to experience the playful and curious nature of these cats up close.

Overall, the street cats of Bangkok are a testament to the city’s love of animals. They have become a beloved part of the city’s landscape, adding to its unique character and charm. Visitors to Bangkok are encouraged to keep an eye out for these friendly felines and consider visiting a cat cafe or animal shelter to show their support for these beloved creatures.

How To Help The Bangkok Stray Cats

If you’re a cat lover and find yourself in Bangkok, there are plenty of ways to help out the city’s stray cat population. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Feed the cats: If you come across a cat that looks hungry, consider giving it some food. Many locals leave out bowls of water and cat food in public spaces for the cats to eat, so feel free to contribute to this effort.
2. Volunteer at a cat shelter: There are several cat shelters in Bangkok that are dedicated to rescuing and caring for stray cats. These shelters are always in need of volunteers to help feed, clean, and play with the cats. Some examples include the Cat House, KAT Cafe, and Santisook Cat Adoption.
3. Donate to a cat shelter: If you don’t have time to volunteer, consider making a donation to a cat shelter. Your contribution can help pay for food, medical care, and other expenses associated with caring for the cats.
4. Adopt a cat: If you’re in Bangkok long-term and have the means to care for a cat, consider adopting one of the many stray cats in need of a loving home. Be sure to do your research and find a reputable shelter or rescue organization to adopt from.
5. Spread awareness: Lastly, simply spreading awareness about the issue of stray cats in Bangkok can help make a difference. Talk to locals and tourists about the importance of caring for these animals and consider sharing information about cat shelters and adoption opportunities on social media.

By taking action to help the street cats of Bangkok, you can make a positive impact on their lives and contribute to the city’s culture of animal welfare.