PETA ‘Kittenmonger’ Shocks Folkestone Residents

Would you eat a kitten fillet? Ahead of World Day for the End of Speciesism, a PETA “kittenmonger” was spotted competing with the regular fishmongers at Folkestone’s Fish Market in a push to challenge speciesism and encourage locals to see fish as intelligent, feeling individuals.

The passers-by were shocked to see mock kitten fillets on trays of ice being “sold” at two for £5, along with “fresh local Siamese” for £8 a kilo and “whole boiled tabbies” for £6 each.

If You Wouldn’t Eat a Kitten, Don’t Eat a Fish

Fish are as playful, inquisitive, and sensitive to pain as the cats who share our homes. They exchange knowledge and have long memories as well as cultural traditions.

However, they’re impaled, crushed, suffocated, or cut open and gutted by the billion – often while they’re completely conscious – for food.

More fish are killed for food each year than all other animals combined.

In addition, 38 million tonnes of other aquatic animals are unintentionally caught annually as the fishing industry aims to satisfy consumer demand.

This is the result of speciesism – the belief that the differences between humans and other animals warrant torturing, killing, and eating those of other species.

‘Sea’ Things Differently

Earlier this week, the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) ruled in PETA’s favour after complaints were received about the group’s “Sea Things in a Different Light” ad, also featuring a “kittenmonger”, which caused a stir in Grimsby.

Gary Stafford Photography

The advert’s message is irrefutable: when it comes to suffering, there is no difference between a fish, a cat, or any other animal.

There’s Plenty More Vegan Fish in the Sea

Leave all animals off your plate, whether they have fur or fins. These guides contain recommendations for restaurants and products that’ll give you a taste of the sea without harming anyone in it: