The director of a Thai period drama has confirmed a cat is safe and healthy after being drugged for a scene depicting its convulsion and death.

Director Sant Srikaewlaw wrote on Facebook on Saturday that a cat had been anesthetized for filming, but the practice was closely monitored by its owner and experts. He also posted clips of the black cat to prove that he is healthy.

He wrote that he would have the cat undergo a medical examination and would later present the written result to prove its medical condition.

Mr. Sant directed “The Empress of Ayodhaya,” a period drama about a courtesan from the Ayutthaya period. The series is broadcast on several channels including Netflix.

The controversial scene from the fifth episode shows a black cat being forced to drink a solution from a tray. Then he convulsed and cried, and one character said he died.

In response to this scene, many people – including famous artists – have expressed concern about possible animal torture.

The Thai Animal Keepers Association said it had asked the Department of Livestock Development to investigate the matter because it feared possible animal torture, a criminal offense.

The Veterinary Council of Thailand said it was aware of the matter and would take necessary action at a later date.

An actress on the show has apologized for her previous comment that the cat was well behaved and deserved to be nominated for an award.