Twenty-five cats trapped inside a shopping mall damaged by an explosion following a powerful earthquake in Japan have been safely rescued, bringing relief to animal lovers across the country. The cats were inside Cat Cafe MOFF, located on the ground floor of the Aeon mall in Kashima, when a 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck on Tuesday. The rescue operation was carried out a day later after authorities granted permission for staff to re-enter the damaged building.
According to the cafe operator, employees initially evacuated the mall along with other occupants after the earthquake. They attempted to return to rescue the animals, but were forced to evacuate again when a massive explosion, believed to have been caused by a gas leak, ripped through the building. Authorities in Kumamoto Prefecture reported that at least 34 people lost their lives in the earthquake, highlighting the scale of the disaster.
On Wednesday, with approval from the fire service, police and the mall operator, the cafe's manager entered the premises and successfully rescued all 25 cats. The animals were found unharmed and were transported to another Cat Cafe MOFF facility in Hiroshima, where they arrived safely later that night. The company said each cat received individual care after the long journey and that they were resting calmly without signs of serious distress.
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The rescue quickly gained widespread attention on social media, with a news post about the operation attracting millions of views. Many users expressed happiness that the animals had survived, while others noted that both human and animal lives are valuable. Some commenters also questioned whether the cats should return to the cafe, suggesting they instead be placed in permanent adoptive homes where they could live in a domestic environment.
The incident has also reignited debate over Japan's popular cat cafes and other animal-themed establishments, where visitors interact with animals ranging from cats to hedgehogs and miniature pigs. While supporters view them as unique recreational spaces, critics have long raised concerns about animal welfare. Others on social media argued that the public focus on the rescued cats should not overshadow the human tragedy, with several people losing their lives in the earthquake and its aftermath.
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