As China ushers in the Year of the Rabbit, pet owners across the country are making sure their furry friends are part of the festive celebrations. From stylish new outfits to lavish New Year’s Eve dinners, pets are stealing the show and becoming stars of the holiday season.
“My dog is like family to me,” says Wu Jing, a pet owner in Hefei City, central China’s Anhui Province. “For the New Year, I bought him a new outfit and prepared a special feast. He enjoyed an extra big chicken leg and his favorite treats. I want everyone, including him, to be happy.”
This trend isn’t unique to Wu. Millions of Chinese pet owners are finding creative ways to include their pets in the festivities, reflecting a growing cultural shift in how pets are perceived and cherished.
Pets Take Over Social Media
RedNote, a popular Chinese social media platform, is buzzing with heartwarming posts under the campaign “Pets Celebrate the Chinese New Year Too.” Pet owners are sharing adorable photos and stories of their pets dressed in festive attire, enjoying special meals, and participating in family traditions.
“More Than Pets, They Are Family: Celebrate an Auspicious Year Together” is the slogan capturing hearts online. A search for related topics reveals millions of posts, showcasing the nation’s affection for their animal companions.
A Booming Pet Economy
The pet industry in China is experiencing significant growth, especially during the Chinese New Year. Pet stores are stocked with festive products like New Year’s Eve dinner packages, lucky snacks, traditional outfits, and toys. Online platforms report a surge in sales of pet-themed New Year items.
“These products are selling exceptionally well, especially among young consumers,” says Zhang, a manager at a local pet store. “People are willing to spend more on their pets’ quality of life.”
On e-commerce platforms, pet New Year’s Eve dinners featuring dishes like abalone rice and luxury steaks are among the bestsellers. Data shows that sales of these special meals are skyrocketing, reflecting the changing spending habits of pet owners.
Cultural Significance
For many, including pets in New Year celebrations is about more than just fun—it’s a way to express love and strengthen the family bond. Lin, a pet owner in Shanghai, took his cat to a photo studio for a special New Year’s photoshoot.
“I’m someone who values festive rituals,” Lin shares. “Celebrating the Chinese New Year by taking photos with my cat feels very meaningful to me.”
Reflecting a Changing Society
The rising pet economy signifies an upgrade in China’s consumption structure. According to industry reports, the urban pet market reached 279.3 billion yuan ($39.29 billion) in 2023 and is projected to climb higher in the coming years.
“A significant number of young people spend more on their pets than on themselves,” says Li Yongjian, a researcher at the Financial Strategy Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. “This shift from material consumption to service and experience highlights the evolving consumer mindset in China.”
As pets take center stage in the country’s most significant traditional festival, it’s clear that furry friends are not just companions—they’re cherished members of the family, celebrated and loved.
