In Batu Pahat, Malaysia, there is a woman named Belinda whose story is filled with courage, love, and perseverance. From her initial fear of animals to becoming a guardian of stray cats, Belinda’s journey has not only transformed her own life but also changed the fate of countless stray cats. Today, I want to share her story and the tale of WUJIA HOMELESS, as well as the touching moments and challenges she has experienced in rescuing stray cats.
What Inspired Belinda to Establish WUJIA HOMELESS?
Belinda’s story began in May 2017. At the time, she was running a breakfast shop, and every day, a white cat would appear at her doorstep. The cat had a wound on its ear and often sneezed. Although the condition didn’t seem severe, Belinda felt sorry for it and started buying fish to feed it. Gradually, the cat became a regular visitor. However, one day, Belinda noticed that the cat’s condition had worsened. It was not only sneezing but also bleeding from its nose, with bloodstains even splattering on the shop’s door. Despite her fear of animals, Belinda’s compassion drove her to help the cat. She visited every veterinary clinic in Batu Pahat, hoping to buy medication for the cat. However, the veterinarians told her that the cat needed to be brought in for treatment. Though afraid, Belinda borrowed a cage and took the cat to the clinic. After an examination, the vet discovered that the cat was not only pregnant but also suffering from the flu. Since there was no specific treatment, the vet advised Belinda to take the cat home and care for it through supportive therapy. Despite her fear, Belinda accepted the challenge. From that day on, Belinda’s life changed dramatically. She had to manage her breakfast shop while caring for the sick cat. Over time, Belinda gradually overcame her fear of animals and began to bond with them. Today, she has been in this field for eight years, and WUJIA HOMELESS has become an organization focused on TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) programs, helping stray cats injured or affected by accidents in the pasar (market).
The Costs and Challenges of WUJIA HOMELESS
Rescuing stray cats requires not only love but also significant financial support. Belinda shared that the expenses of WUJIA HOMELESS largely depend on the health conditions of the cats. For kittens and injured cats, food choices are crucial. A 12kg bag of cat food costs between 160 to 170 MYR and often lasts only a little over a day. The total monthly expenses range from 25,000 to 30,000 MYR.Belinda emphasized that they never feed the cats cheap, low-quality food, as it is detrimental to their health. Despite the high costs, Belinda remains committed to providing the best care for these stray cats.To help alleviate some of their burdens, our SOAR team brought 20 boxes of cat litter. This donation aims to support their daily operations and ensure the cats have a clean and comfortable environment. Every small contribution makes a difference in their mission to care for these vulnerable animals.
Health Management and Quarantine for Cats
At WUJIA HOMELESS, Belinda places great emphasis on the health management of the cats. Whether they are brought from Kuala Lumpur or rescued from the pasar, Belinda isolates them for 14 days to ensure they do not spread diseases to other cats. After the quarantine period, she arranges for veterinarians to test the cats for FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus) and FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus). FeLV is a particularly dangerous virus, as infected cats are prone to weight loss, cancer, and it is more contagious than FIV. Belinda provides emergency treatments such as blood transfusions for these cats. Although the treatments are expensive and cannot cure FeLV completely, she remains dedicated to offering them the best care. Belinda says, “These cats, like us, deserve welfare. I will do my best to give them the treatment and care they deserve.”
The Story of Bie Bie: From Despair to Hope
Among the many cats Belinda has rescued, one named Bie Bie left a deep impression on her. Bie Bie was found in a market by a volunteer named Ah Bing. At the time, Bie Bie’s jaw was broken, and all its teeth had fallen out. The wound appeared to be a month old. When Belinda received the news, she immediately went to rescue Bie Bie, even though it was just before Chinese New Year and she was extremely busy. Bie Bie’s surgery was complex. The doctor could only install screws on one side of its jaw, as the other side was too severely damaged to repair. The success rate of the surgery was low, and Ah Bing felt deeply guilty, believing that earlier intervention could have made a difference. However, Belinda brought good news: Bie Bie’s weight had increased from 0.9 kg to 1.45 kg, and its health was gradually improving. The entire shelter and the SOAR team were thrilled by Bie Bie’s progress.
Touching Moments and Challenges in Rescue Work
Throughout her journey of rescuing stray cats, Belinda has experienced many touching moments and faced countless challenges. She admits that one of the biggest challenges is criticism and skepticism from others. Some people criticize her methods, and at times, it has made her want to give up. However, a comment from Ah Bing reignited her determination: “Do you know? The cat you neutered three years ago is still alive and healthy.” This reminded Belinda that her efforts were not in vain. She firmly believes that every life deserves respect and care. Despite the hardships, Belinda continues her work because she believes these animals deserve a better life. Belinda also shared a story that deeply moved the SOAR team. She not only cares for the cats in the morning and evening but also comes in the middle of the night to change their diapers. If the diapers are not changed promptly, the cats’ wounds can become infected or even rot. Additionally, when Belinda is busy, she sometimes receives calls about how to feed or care for newborn kittens. Without hesitation, she visits their homes to share useful knowledge, ensuring the kittens survive. Another story involves a cat with a heart condition. One night, the cat needed oxygen, and as soon as Belinda received the call, she rushed to the scene with an oxygen tank. In fact, Belinda rarely asks for help; she quietly shoulders all the expenses. The shelter’s monthly costs can sometimes reach up to 50,000 MYR.
Gratitude and Perseverance
Belinda considers herself fortunate because many people believe in her and offer their support. Whether it’s financial donations, volunteer assistance, or sponsorships, all of it enables her to continue her work. She is deeply grateful to everyone who has supported WUJIA HOMELESS, as their help allows her to keep providing shelter and care for stray cats.
Conclusion
Belinda’s story shows us that love and perseverance can change the fate of countless lives. From her initial fear to becoming a guardian, Belinda has proven that every life deserves kindness. WUJIA HOMELESS is not just a shelter but a place filled with love and hope. May Belinda’s story inspire more people to care for stray animals and lend a helping hand.
If Belinda’s story has touched you, consider following WUJIA HOMELESS or supporting their work in any way you can. Every small act of kindness can change the life of a stray cat.
