Unique cat-capybara friendship a big visitor draw at Zoo Negara

Oyen the cat has become the "Star of Zoo Negara" after it developed a unique friendship with a herd of capybara. – Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR: Visitors are flocking to Zoo Negara to see Oyen, a cat which has developed a special bond with a herd of capybara here.

Zoo Negara vice president Rosly@Rahmat Ahmat Lana said over 3,000 people visited the zoo over the weekend to see the ginger-coloured cat fraternising with the large rodents.

Rosly said Oyen is now the "Star of Zoo Negara" and has gained extraordinary popularity following its unique friendship with the capybaras over the past three years.

"Every day, 95% of the visitors are here just to see Oyen. He is very popular. In fact, the number of visitors doubles during weekends," he said to reporters here on Tuesday (Aug 8) after the installation of Oyen's official sign in front of the capybara enclosure in conjunction with World Cat Day which is celebrated on Aug 8.

He said the new sign is to replace the old one which was accidentally damaged by visitors.

Rosly also said his team intends to find a partner for Oyen so that its line can continue.

He said the zoo would also take care of the cat's well-being, including giving it nutritious food and monitoring its health.

"Unlike before, Oyen is now docile and approachable. Should Oyen fall ill one day, it will be easy for us to hold and treat it," he said.

The friendship between the two different species has become a huge draw at Zoo Negara after a video went viral on social media showing Oyen, a stray cat, hugging a capybara while sleeping. – Bernama