Cat Lady, Painted Panda and Ceramic Tigers

[Vung Tau, 5/30/25]

Leaving DC HomeStay this predawn, I chatted with an old woman who had left food for stray cats. As they ate, she stood guard against assholes who might come by to snatch at least one away. Even if they’re not desperate drug addicts, the sale of just one to a “little tiger” eatery would have them eating for a day. You can easily get a bánh mì here for 80 cents or less. A vegetarian rice meal goes for the same.

“I always thought these cats were fed by this place’s owner.” I meant my landlord.

“No, no, I feed them.” She had the most relaxed smile. She wanted nothing from anyone.

“Look at them, they’re all chubby! How many places do you go to?”

“Three, but now only two. At one, they’re all gone. Many people don’t like me feeding the cats. I also give food to birds.”

“At the library?”

“No. Those pigeons are well fed by many people. I give food to the sparrows, down that way. I feel sorry for them.”

“That’s amazing. So these are your leftovers?”

“Leftovers?! I must buy it. I go to New Market every morning! I buy chicken parts, fish.”