Community Guidelines

Dear Feline Guardians members,

Thank you for taking part in Feline Guardians – an online community dedicated to combating online cat torture rings with the support of volunteers and branches worldwide.

Since its establishment, Feline Guardians’ approach has been inclusive and decentralized, encouraging diverse methods of activism to identify the most effective strategies. We respect the autonomy of our community members, support independent operation of local chapters, and promote a variety of actions to achieve success in our shared goals.

We are fighting a cause that deeply touches the hearts of tens of thousands around the world. To prevent fraud and misuse, provide clarity to our mission, and set a common standard, we are announcing a set of community guidelines. These guidelines are derived from experiences from our past victories and lessons learned, encompassing the diverse insights and practical wisdom gathered from our dedicated members worldwide, who have tirelessly contributed to our cause. 

Sincerely,

Feline Guardians Without Borders – Official

The following guidelines apply to individuals, communities, and organizations affiliated with a branch of the Feline Guardians international community. This includes:

• Social media accounts and websites that use the name Feline Guardians, or accounts that promote content for, or speak on behalf of Feline Guardians.

• Individuals or organizations representing Feline Guardians in communications with members of the public.

• In-person demonstrations and outreach events in the name of Feline Guardians, recognized by using the name Feline Guardians in demonstration materials, flyers, and presence on the Feline Guardians official social media accounts and/or websites.

• Investigations, research, engineering, artistic/creative, or any other efforts conducted by or on behalf of the Feline Guardians chapters.

Note: Individuals and organizations that support the same causes independently of Feline Guardians are not subject to these guidelines. 

1. Limit publicly posting explicit content of animal torture unedited. A trigger warning is required. 

2. Do not post the direct links to any abuser groups, websites, or videos.

3. Keep animal activism separate from political influence. Ensure that activism is not used to promote or attack any political entity or leader but is purely about achieving the objective of animal welfare.

4. Avoid languages and activities that promote hatred, bias, or racism towards ANY countries, cultures, or religions. This includes avoiding Sinophobic comments or actions targeting China or Chinese people. Discussions and actions should focus on animal welfare without attributing blame or perpetuating stereotypes about any nation or its citizens.

5. Do not ask for donations in Feline Guardians posts and activities.  Any fundraising needs should be discussed with the main FG accounts to ensure clarity and alignment with our mission. Consider donating to trust-worthy charities and rescue groups. 

6. Do not use the official Feline Guardians logo unless approved by the Feline Guardians official accounts.

7. Adhere to your local laws and regulations.

These guidelines are constructed with the belief that such conduct is in the best interest of helping animals tortured and killed, and that upholding these standards will drive us to victory in the most effective manner. Feline Guardians is not the only community combating the online cat torture gang, and we will not assume liability, take the blame, or bear consequences for any individuals or organizations who do not follow these guidelines. We do not tolerate misuse of the community brand name in unapproved conduct.

Feline Guardians official accounts reserve the rights to the final interpretation of these guidelines.

Sincerely,

Feline Guardians Without Borders – Official

*Guideline explained: 

• On new chapter creation

If a new FG-Associated Social Media Account is created, you are encouraged to inform info@felineguardians.org such that FG can introduce you to the broader community and promote your content if applicable

• On Explicit Content

The topic of posting explicit content is heavily debated within the community. There is no consensus on its appropriateness. To balance awareness and sensitivity, our recommendation is to adhere to your local laws and platform regulations, and not post explicit content frequently. All such content should be blurred to protect viewers from distressing images while still conveying the gravity of the issue.

Links to the abuser groups, websites, and videos should NEVER be publicly posted, even for awareness raising purposes. Abusers are looking for new customers and attention, and exposing their links will contribute to adding participants / customers to their community.

• On the Cat Torture Ring

Feline Guardians have uncovered evidence suggesting the involvement of illegal activities from overseas and foreign entities outside of mainland China. The primary goal of FG accounts should be to crack down on the online torture ring. Social media advocacy should focus on punishing abusers and reducing the number of “legal” tortures in China. While calling for legislation in China is important, it should be framed as part of a broader effort, recognizing that not all responsibility lies with China alone.

Feline Guardians strongly opposes the condemnation of Chinese people or culture in the process of raising awareness. We do NOT associate ourselves with any sinophobic rhetoric or anti-government political influence. Several reasons underpin this stance:

·       Legislative Challenges: We anticipate the eventual implementation of relevant laws by Chinese authorities. Building relationships with legislators, animal organizations, support groups, and influential figures in China is important.

·       Media Challenges: FG seeks to present information and gain support from mainstream media in China while receiving international support. To succeed, our content must remain professional, factual, and respectful of cultural differences.

·       Activist Challenges:  Sensitive political topics discourage local Chinese activists and jeopardizes their activism

·       NGO Challenges: Avoiding cultural bias is essential to maintain relationships with international animal NGOs that prefer to remain neutral on political issues.

• On Donations

When operating an FG-affiliated account, it is prohibited to raise funds for non-FG causes. Any fundraising needs should be discussed with the main FG accounts to ensure clarity and alignment with our mission. Consider donating to trust-worthy charities and rescue groups. 

• On Logo Usage

The Cow Cat image symbolizes the anti-animal abuse movement and is encouraged as the face of our cause. The official FG Main account logo is reserved for use by official FG accounts. This proprietary logo helps prevent fraud and protects our community’s reputation and legitimacy. Unauthorized use of the logo for activities like fundraising or illegal actions can harm FG and its mission. The general Cow Cat image and any creations on top of it still represent the movement and can be used by other FG affiliated accounts, in all offline and online awareness activities.