Last Updated on 25 January 2026 by Vanessa
In this collection of photos from the book Street Cats of Thailand and Japan, Amy Mander takes us on a visual journey through the streets of Udon Thani and the many cats that live there.
However, these photos are not just about celebrating cats. They also serve to raise funds for Kitty Rescuee, an animal welfare organization dedicated to improving the lives of cats in Asia.
Meet the street cats of Udon Thani, Thailand
This is a guest post by Amy Mander, creator of the book Street Cats of Thailand and Japan.
Street cats of Thailand
In June 2017, I set off on a life-changing journey across Asia, spending a total of six months living in Thailand, Japan, and Taiwan.
One thing that immediately caught my attention was the cats. They lived on the streets, and they were curious and full of personality. They truly seemed to embody the spirit of the place.
I saw a great deal of compassion toward these cats, but also moments of neglect and cruelty that were truly heartbreaking.
Thailand is a shining example of a country where a profound mutual understanding between humans and animals exists. It is a place where both species coexist harmoniously, respecting and acknowledging each other’s presence in everyday life.
This is clearly visible in Udon Thani and other Thai cities.
Wild dogs dominate the pavements. Cats and kittens laze around shops. Lizards occupy the walls in hotels, homes, and hostels. Butterflies drift through gardens. And birds pay no attention to your calls; they only look for a brief moment and then move onto the next tree.
Related: Cats in Thailand – 40 fun facts and trivia.
Street cats of Japan
From my experience, Japan offers a very different picture when it comes to the treatment of animals. People clearly take priority in daily life, and many animals face neglect or poor treatment. This situation highlights a real need for education and awareness.
During my time in Japan, I noticed strange and sometimes troubling relationships between humans and animals. Knowledge among pet owners and practices in zoos often falls short of the compassion we hope for. Greater understanding and care are clearly needed to improve the lives of these animals.
Cats in Japan are mostly feral and tend to move in groups. They are tough, resourceful animals who form close bonds with one another and show loyalty to a few humans who feed or care for them.
Older people in particular often visit their usual spots and leave small portions of tuna. But that tradition is fragile. As this generation ages, many of the cats they once looked after may go hungry.
Related: Misao and Fukumaru: this grandma and cat duo from Chiba, Japan, will melt your heart!
Supporting Kitty Rescuee and the street cats of Asia
In my book Street Cats of Thailand and Japan, I share the lives of these cats to spark conversation and encourage change. The stories and images aim to raise awareness, foster understanding, and inspire empathy toward these often-overlooked animals. Teaching younger generations the value of compassion and responsible care is essential to keeping this cycle going.
Half of all book sales go directly to Kitty Rescuee, a leading cat welfare organization in Asia. They provide shelter, medical care, and support to cats in need, and they give them a real chance at a better life.
By buying Street Cats of Thailand and Japan, you get a glimpse into the lives of these cats—and help Kitty Rescuee continue its work.
Together, we can make a difference and give these feline friends a brighter future.
Related: This photographer spent years following cats in Japan, and the results are purrfection!
Conclusion
By sharing this photo series with your friends, you can help shed light on these animals’ struggles, create greater understanding, ignite conversations, and inspire positive change for the street cats of Thailand and Japan. A simple share can make a difference in their lives.
Related: These are the best cafés in Thailand.
About the photographer
Amy Mander is an award-winning photographer with a soft spot for lipstick, cats, and Starbucks. She has a habit of reading one too many self-help books and spending far too long on Instagram scrolling through motivational quotes.
Street Cats of Thailand and Japan: book giveaway
Amy Mander is giving away an autographed copy of her book Street Cats of Thailand and Japan to one lucky reader of Traveling Cats. This book giveaway is open worldwide. Good luck!
