What’s Happening?
More than 1,000 endangered long-tailed macaques were allegedly smuggled from Cambodia and are now stuck in barren U.S. laboratory cages. PETA and Born Free USA secured space for every one of them at the Born Free USA Primate Sanctuary in Texas—and even pledged $1 million toward their lifetime care—yet federal officials are dragging their feet.
The Latest Twist
On July 10, 2025, insiders revealed back-room negotiations to hand the monkeys back to Charles River Laboratories—the company under federal investigation for the illegal import. Former Interior officials have reportedly lobbied on Charles River’s behalf, putting profit over the animals’ welfare.
Why This Matters to Kitty Connection Readers
Kitty Connection rescues cats because every life—feline, primate, or otherwise—deserves safety, enrichment, and respect. The plight of these macaques mirrors what happens to countless cats in testing labs: cramped cages, no natural environment, and no say in their fate. Speaking up for them strengthens the fight for all species.
How You Can Help
- Take Action in One Minute
Fill out PETA’s action form urging the U.S. Secretary of the Interior to send the monkeys to sanctuary and compel Charles River to fund their care:
https://support.peta.org/page/53261/-/1?locale=en-US - Share the Story
Post the link above on social media with a personal note on why you support sanctuary over suffering. - Stay Informed
Subscribe to Kitty Connection updates—when we unite across causes, our collective voice gets louder.
A Compassionate Future
Rescuing cats teaches us that healing begins with a safe space and loving care. These macaques deserve the same chance. Let’s stand together—cat lovers, primate advocates, and all animal guardians—to turn their story from cruelty to compassion.
Thank you for lending your voice beyond the whiskers and tails we know so well.