From BabyMetal to Hello Kitty: 11 Wacky Japanese Trends to Love
By Kalistrya
4. Pet Love: Truly Madly Deeply
The Japanese are pretty passionate about pets. Actually that’s an understatement, they’re CRAZY about pets.
A lot of Japanese people have small living spaces and are often unable or not permitted to have pets. That’s why cat cafes have become runaway successes in big cities like Tokyo. The cafes have to adhere to the Animal Treatment and Protection Law, so there are standards to ensure the welfare of the animals. Cats aren’t the only animals being cooed over in cafes though, there are numerous other animal cafes in Japan.
Torinoiru Cafe in Tokyo specializes in birds. They have numerous species that are accustomed to humans, from parrots to owls to parakeets to hawks.
Over at Ra.a.g.f Rabbit Cafe there are around 20 soft, fluffy bunnies available to feed and pet.
At Sakuragaoka Cafe you can hang out with the baby goats. Though cute, every goat that I have met, young and old, has been hell bent on eating everything in sight including my clothing. Luckily it looks like the goats aren’t free range within the cafe area.
Those that can afford to have pets in Japan are known for lavishing money on things like designer pet clothing. Yes, Chanel, Dior, Hermès and Gucci all have pricey clothing items for Japanese pampered pets (mostly for dogs, of course). For some, it’s said that having a pet is a replacement for having children. It’s not just clothing, everything is available for pets. There are pet spas as well as specialized funeral services for when beloved pets pass away.
Dress for cat hugging success with this combination hoodie and cat pouch from Uni Habitat. Both you and your chosen furball will stay warm toasty and together in grey or navy. The cat pouch is nice and large to accommodate big boned felines.