Students Demand Investigation After Six San Marcos University Cats Allegedly Die of Poisoning

Six cats that lived on the premises of the National University of San Marcos allegedly died after being poisoned, prompting outrage among students and animal advocates who are demanding justice. The cats, identified as Teodora, Gemelito, Cleopatra, Melón, Bolaños and Ari, lived near the university’s schools of Nutrition and Obstetrics.

Students linked to the group Identidad San Fernandina said the animals formed part of the university community. They fed and cared for the cats, while also trying to find them homes and promote their adoption. The reported deaths have now turned attention to the university’s handling of animals living on campus.

The denunciation raises suspicions about possible involvement by teachers at the Nutrition and Obstetrics schools. That allegation remains unproven. Those making the complaint said some professors had allegedly referred to the animals as “pests,” while also criticizing the institution for providing insufficient support for student efforts involving sterilization, feeding and responsible pet ownership.

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Animal lives matter

Students and animal protection groups have called for an immediate investigation and sanctions against anyone found responsible. Messages circulated on social media included “Animal lives matter” and “Animal abuse is a crime.” Peru’s Law No. 30407 on Animal Protection and Welfare provides measures against cruelty to animals.

The public complaint has not identified who might have placed the alleged poison, and the university has not reported a completed investigation. The complainants want authorities to establish how the cats died and determine whether anyone within the university community bears responsibility.

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Animal abuse is a crime