Officials in Fukuyama, Japan, have issued an alert following an unusual incident involving a cat that entered a metal plating factory and fell into a toxic vat before managing to escape. The factory in question, Nomura Plating, has announced plans to enhance its security measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
On Monday morning, workers discovered a trail of tan-colored claw prints leading away from an 11-foot-tall vat containing hexavalent chromium, a highly toxic chemical used in metal plating. Exposure to hexavalent chromium can result in severe health issues, including lung and airway inflammation, as well as skin ulcerations.
The factory spokesperson highlighted that the incident underscored the need for measures to prevent small animals like cats from gaining unauthorized access, a scenario they had not previously considered. Surveillance footage revealed the cat leaving the premises on Sunday night, indicating that it had somehow fallen into the vat.
Following the discovery, the factory promptly notified the authorities, including the police, city officials, and neighboring establishments. The city's environmental division issued a warning to residents about the potential health hazards associated with the toxic cat and advised them to avoid contact if spotted.
Furthermore, the environmental division cautioned residents to refrain from touching any cats exhibiting abnormal behavior and to report such instances to the relevant authorities. The city also provided guidance to nearby elementary schools, advising children against approaching cats that appeared unwell.
As of the latest update, the whereabouts of the cat remain unknown, with concerns raised that it may have succumbed to the chemical exposure. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of stringent safety protocols in industrial settings to prevent harm to both animals and humans.
