At first glance, Japan might seem like an animal paradise, with a plethora of products at hand for the pampered pet. However, it doesn't take too long to realize that animal welfare lags behind much of the developed world in certain respects.
Rather than adopting an animal from a shelter, many people still turn to pet shops when seeking a kitten or puppy. In the process, they pay big bucks and are unwittingly fueling an industry that typically separates babies from their mothers far younger than recommended in an attempt to cash in on the cuteness factor.
What's more, spaying and neutering of cats and dogs is still not widespread in many areas of Japan. Litters of unwanted kittens, in particular, are dumped at no more than a few weeks of age. While a lucky few might be found by kind rescuers, far more succumb to illness, crows or the elements. Cats that do survive eke out a perilous existence, perhaps relying on the kindness of volunteers who feed them, and having more litters to add to the feral cat population.