Thai cockfighting spurs spark animal cruelty fears

2026-02-23 - 02:23

CHUMPHON — 23 February 2026, Animal welfare advocates have urged authorities to tighten oversight of cockfighting arenas in Chumphon over the use of sharp metal spurs, saying the practice violates cultural tradition and may amount to animal cruelty. Campaigners said the attachment of elongated metal spurs, or knife-like gaffs, to fighting cocks contravenes both legal and ethical standards in Thailand. They argue that forcing animals to fight with such weapons, often until death, constitutes one of the most severe forms of abuse. Under Thailand’s Animal Cruelty Prevention and Welfare Act of 2014, traditional cockfighting is exempted from being classified as animal cruelty under Section 21 (11). However, the exemption applies only if the activity complies with regulations set by law. The 2009 Interior Ministry regulation on cockfighting and fish fighting prohibits reinforcing or sharpening natural spurs in ways deemed cruel. If metal spurs or blades are attached to a bird’s legs with the intent to cause severe wounds or rapid death, the act is considered contrary to “good cultural traditions” and may be subject to prosecution. Photographs circulating online appear to show unusually long, sharpened metal spurs, weapons not found naturally on roosters, designed to pierce vital organs such as the lungs or eyes. Such implements frequently result in serious injury or swift death. In regulated or conservation-style cockfighting, organisers typically wrap natural spurs with plaster or tape to reduce the risk of grave injury. The use of sharp metal spurs, critics say, shifts the focus from tactical competition to victory through lethal force and extreme suffering. International animal welfare organisations, including People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals and American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, classify cockfighting with metal spurs or knives as among the most brutal forms of animal cruelty because it compels animals to fight to the death in distressing conditions. Local animal lovers say concern over the practice has long existed, but few have spoken out publicly for fear of influential figures linked to the sport. A review found that at several properly licensed arenas, most handlers continue to use metal spurs. Advocates are calling on relevant officials to impose strict measures to halt the practice, in order to prevent cruelty and ensure animal welfare protections are enforced.